Mythbuster Monday #5: To be or not to be vegan?
To be or not to be vegan? Is it healthy?
Are you planning on cutting out meat and/or dairy products? Are you curious about how the 9.4% of Canadians who choose not to eat meat and/or dairy products manage to obtain all the required nutrients? Or... do they even?
According to the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada, a well-balanced vegetarian/vegan diet is healthy, can provide an adequate intake of nutrients, and offer every essential nutrient that our body needs. Some studies reveal that limiting intake of meat and/or dairy could have different health benefits, such as a decreased risk of developing certain types of cancer, and easier weight-control management.
That been said, switching to a vegetarian/vegan lifestyle requires some nutritional understanding. It is important to look for the nutrients that come from plant sources that are harder to find. While vegetarians/vegans will not necessarily encounter difficulties finding sufficient carbohydrates, proteins and fat, some specific minerals and vitamins, such as iron or vitamin B12, may be a cause for concern. However, consuming fortified foods or supplements may provide an appropriate amount of these nutrients.
All things considered, there is a general consensus in the nutrition field that a well-planned vegan or vegetarian diet can be adequate for all stages of life. Nonetheless, if you have any further questions or concern, you can consult the link below, or set an appointment with a certified dietitian who would be happy to answer all of your questions!
Source:
American Dietetic Association; Dietitians of Canada (2003) Position of the American Dietetic Association and dietitians of Canada: Vegetarian diets. Journal of American Dietetics Association. Vol 103, Iss. 6, 748-65.
