Risks of Vegetarian Diets

Protein Deficiency The majority of vegetarian protein sources do not contain all of the essential amino acids. This can develop into vitamin B deficiency. Combinations of plant proteins will provide complete nutrition. For example, peanut butter over whole wheat bread. Protein deficiencies can be a contributing factor to developing edema, muscle weakness, and skin irritations.

Protein Combinations

Birth Defects Studies have shown that a B12 deficiency during pregnancy raises the likelihood of the fetus developing spina bifida and anencephaly. Pregnant women who are on a vegetarian diet can take vitamin B12 supplements to reduce the risk of birth defects in their baby.

Iron Deficiency It is difficult for people who are on a vegetarian diet to consume enough iron because of their avoidance of eating meat. The iron that they do consume is not as easily assimilated as iron from animal sources. If iron consumption is persistently low, anemia can result. The Mayo Clinic recommends that vegetarians eat twice as much iron as those who are not on this diet to meet their iron requirement. An iron supplement may be needed as well.

Other Risks Osteoporosis as a result of calcium deficiency. Rickets in children due to vitamin D deficiency. Macrocytic anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Emaciation or Slow Growth in vegetarian infants and children due to energy/calorie deficiency. Riboflavin, zinc, and essential amino acid (lysine and methionine) deficiency.

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