A diet based on plant-based ingredients has ample boons for the environment, but at what cost? Irrespective of the positive ethical implications, going fully vegan has its own set of health concerns for some while it may be wholesome and sustainable for others. Possibility of Developing Nutrient Deficiency Although vegan diet is replete with many nutrients, you often run the risk of falling low on some nutrients when you are diligently adhering to a strict vegan diet. Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D and Zinc are some of the major deficiencies that vegan lifestyle spurs and it affects the body in myriad ways. From weakening immunity, brittle nails, joint pain, cardiovascular ailments, poor healing of wood and vulnerability to infections, skin ulcers and cancer. It weakens your body and increases the possibilities of bone fractures, high blood pressure and accentuated sense of lethargy. Often, vegans are more prone to developing Vitamin-B12 deficiency which attacks the neurological system triggering irreversible numbness and tingling sensations. In extreme cases, it may lead to dementia. Protein Inadequacy Plant-based ingredients are rather rich in dietary fibre and low in saturated fat which further complicates intake of the bare minimum protein. Only when choosing a wide range of ingredients you can assuredly pump into your body an optimum quantity of essential amino acid which can make up for the protein inadequacy. Unless you are cautiously selecting the ingredients to avoid consumption of heavily processed foods devoid of fruits and whole grains, the risks of protein deficiency is pretty high which could consequent in hair loss and inflammation. When children are introduced to vegan diets, it could stunt physical growth, frequent bone fractures and increased proneness towards infections. To combat protein deficiency, be sure to be loaded on nits, seeds, lentils, black beans and soy foods. Consuming protein supplements is also an option. Drastic Dwindling of Iron Levels Iron levels tend to plummet, and the iron shortage is known to be the most common consequence of veganism. It causes anaemia which prolongs dizziness, headache, pale complexion, weakness and lethargy making concentrating or working difficult. Beans, spinach, fortified cereal and berries are convenient options to fill up this lack besides of course resorting to supplements. This might meddle with pre-existing medical conditions and aggravate the problems. Therefore, it is always recommended to visit a doctor if you opt for a full-fledged vegan lifestyle. Also, if you are expecting to witness a radical change in health with vegan regime, you might be disappointed since there is so credible data that veganism alone boosts good health.
