Vegan diet ensures lower BMI and body fat, but risks vitamin/mineral deficiencies

A study just published in the journal Nutrients found that individuals consuming a vegan diet had lower BMI, body fat, and visceral fat, and also consumed more fiber and vitamin C, than omnivores. Unfortunately, vegans also had significantly lower vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium levels than omnivores. While not as significant, vegans also consumed less iodine, zinc, and calcium. Each of these micronutrients plays an essential role in the functioning of the tissues in our body, as well as in overall health of the human body. This article highlights the importance of vegans either consuming foods high in these micronutrients (which is preferable!), or taking supplements. I discuss each of these micronutrients in my book Optimized, as well as plant-based sources for each, in the chapter called “Diet, Nutrition, Vitamins & Supplements (You are what you eat!)”. Check it out!