What nutrient deficiencies should be monitored in vegetarian and vegan diets within MNT?

Monitoring specific nutrient deficiencies in vegetarian and vegan diets is crucial due to the exclusion of certain food groups, which can lead to gaps in essential nutrient intake.

Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, and since vegetarians and particularly vegans avoid these, they are at high risk for deficiency, which can lead to neurological issues and anemia. Iron is another critical nutrient; while plant sources provide non-heme iron, it is less readily absorbed compared to heme iron found in meat. Therefore, vegetarians and vegans must pay attention to their iron sources and consider factors that enhance absorption, such as vitamin C.

Calcium is vital for bone health, and lactose, which many dairy products contain, is absent in vegan diets. Thus, individuals following these lifestyles need to ensure adequate intake from fortified foods or alternative sources like leafy greens or fortified plant milks. Lastly, omega-3 fatty acids, which are predominantly found in fish, can be lacking in vegetarian and vegan diets. Plant-based sources like flaxseeds and walnuts are not biologically equivalent to the forms found in seafood, necessitating attention to ensure sufficient levels are maintained.

This combination of nutrients—B12, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids—highlights