Infants who were introduced to a low protein diet dubbed as Nordic diet – High in fruits, vegetables, and roots – ate more fruits and vegetables at 12 and 18 months of age in comparison to infants who ate a conventional diet. The study known as the OTIS trial included infants aged 4-18 months and showed that infants in the Nordic group consumed 42-45% more fruits and vegetables, compared with those in comparison to conventional groups. Plasma folate levels were significantly higher in the Nordic group at about 12-18 months.

The daily protein intake ranged from 17-29% lower in the Nordic group, which was within the safe level recommended for healthy growth in young children by the WHO. Dr. Ulrica Johansson, MD, UNEA University stated that when data from Nordic groups and conventional groups were compared, no significant differences were observed in growth, total energy intake, iron status, and duration of breastfeeding. Dr. Ulrica added that the protein-reduced, Nordic diet is both feasible and safe for an infant’s growth, nutritional requirement, and development during the complementary feeding period. Thus, it may serve as a healthy and environmentally sustainable diet alternative for infants and their parents in the future.

She also added that Nordic food is a way to expose infants to a variety of flavors, thus, establishing healthy food preferences from the early stages of life. The importance of the study was reinforced by research documents concerning childhood obesity associated with a higher intake of protein, fats, and overall calories in infancy. 

(Source: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/976272?src=#vp_2 )