I requested more info on this subject from another list to
which I below.  Here is one response.
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Generally, the theory behind raw foods diets is that it must
be the optimal eating plan because it is the original human
diet.  A lot of raw foods proponents are also natural
hygienists so that they follow fairly strict rules about food
combining as well (specifically avoiding starch-protein
combinations at meals).  There's no scientific support for raw
foods diets, but for adults they are probably safe and healthy.
 I'm not at all surprised that a 6-month old breast-fed infant is
doing fine on this diet.  But, I definitely would worry about
what will happen as the child starts eating more solid foods
and less breast milk (although I'll bet the parents plan to
breastfeed well into the toddler stage).

They may be completely resistant to any changes in the diet
or they may be open to some small changes that would
improve the nutritional value of the baby's diet--introduction of
foods like tofu, small amounts of cooked beans and gently
steamed vegetables over the next several months. When the
baby is older, he can start consuming nut butters and things
like sprouted lentils which should fit in with a raw foods plan.
At some point, as they approach weaning, the parents really
need to be thinking about calcium sources in the baby's diet
and so they will need to consider foods like calcium-fortified
soymilk and calcium-set tofu.   I think if these foods were
emphasized as supplemental items for a diet that is largely
raw--that is, if you point out that raw foods diets are fine, but
for children they require just a little tweaking-- the parents
might be open to making some adjustments. It seems that if
they approached you for help they are probably open to
suggestions.
The ADA can help them find a dietitian who specializes in
vegan diets.  I assume that this family does not use animal
products and it would be important for them to work with
someone who is supportive of that approach and who
understands how to plan meat and dairy-free diets for young
children.  The Vegetarian Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group
could also help in finding a dietitian to work with this family.

Ginny Messina, MPH, RD

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Debbie