The Health and Food Supplements Information Service (HSIS) has highlighted the need for supplementation when cutting down on animal foods. Its report, based on data from over 17,000 people, found that those on plant-based diets, vegans and vegetarians are risking dietary shortfalls for optimal wellbeing and health as well as undermining their micronutrient status. Many were found to be deficient in vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, zinc, iodine, selenium and omega-3 fats.
Several of these nutrients – iron, zinc and selenium – are known to support normal immune function, essential for our health and wellbeing and are particularly relevant at this time. Low levels of iron and B vitamins can also lead to tiredness and fatigue, while iodine and iron are important for supporting cognitive function. Vitamin D is key for bone health, and omega-3 fats are vital for protecting heart and brain.
Concern about nutrient gaps in plantbased diets is heightened given the surge in consumers ditching meat and dairy products. 400,000 people worldwide signed up to Veganuary in 2020, and it’s been estimated that vegans and vegetarians will make up a quarter of the UK’s population by 2025. While this is great news for the nation’s health as well as for the enivoronment, it’s important that all those following a meat-free diet ensure they’re getting everything they need.
Co-author, nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire, said: “It’s important that people who are thinking of switching to a plant-based diet should incorporate a daily multinutrient supplement into their diets. This can help people meet their requirements. For those who avoid fish, an algae-based omega-3 supplement is also recommended since the particular omega-3 fats found in oily fish – called EPA and DHA – don’t exist in plant foods.”
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