The Role of Micronutrients and Micronutrient Supplements in Vegetarian and Vegan Diets

Abstract

Vegetarian and vegan diets are becoming increasingly popular in Western countries. Numerous global nutrition bodies advocate that appropriately planned meat-free diets are suitable for all the life cycle stages. Nutritionally adequate vegetarian and vegan diets may provide substantial health benefits and reduction of disease states. However, many studies have identified that recommendations for certain micronutrients may be harder to achieve when following these diets. Micronutrient deficiencies can cause several serious health issues throughout life if not prevented and treated. The outcomes of micronutrient deficiencies are particularly severe in vulnerable individuals, including pregnant women and children. Given the large number of individuals now selecting to follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is important to address the challenge of achieving micronutrient requirements and to identify methods, such as supplementation, to improve micronutrient intakes in vegetarian and vegan groups.