As a vegan nutrition coach, I've heard all the jokes about vegans and supplements.
"But where do you get your protein?" "I heard vegans need supplements to survive!"
Yes, we've heard them all. But let's set the record straight, shall we?
First things first, yes, some vegans do need to supplement certain nutrients, like vitamin B12.
Contrary to popular belief, vitamin B12 isn't made by animals or plants; it's made by bacteria.
Since we don't live in a world where we eat food covered in a bit of dirt (which would contain
B12-producing bacteria), we need to get our B12 elsewhere. Supplements or fortified foods are
typically the way to go. Even the animals that are touted as having "the only source of B12" are
often supplemented with it. So, why not just cut out the middleman and take a supplement yourself -
if you even need it.
Now, before you start popping supplements left and right, it's a good idea to get a blood test
to determine your nutrient levels. Did you know that it can take years for some nutrient
deficiencies to even show up because our bodies are pretty good at storing them?
For example, it can take years to deplete your body's stores of vitamin B12.
But here's the kicker: many deficiencies are actually a result of absorption issues or
medical conditions. For instance, people with pernicious anemia lack a protein necessary
for absorbing vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency even if they consume enough of it.
Other conditions, like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, can also interfere
with nutrient absorption.
So, while jokes about vegans and supplements might get a chuckle, the truth is, nutrient
deficiencies can happen to anyone, regardless of their diet. It's always a good idea to
consult with a healthcare professional or a vegan nutrition coach (like me!) to ensure
you're getting all the nutrients you need. If you want help picking out a home-test,
let's setup a 30-minute consultation to discuss your options.
Love and leafy greens,
Christie Trent, NASM-CNC
National Academy of Sports Medicine - Certified Nutrition Coach
To learn more about me, please visit christie.technology
