Consistently following a vegan diet can lead to many nutritional deficiencies of vitamin B12 and iron
New Delhi: A vegan diet is based on plants and foods made from plants. Vegans do not eat foods that come from animals, including dairy products and eggs.
However, there are deadly risks that can result from a plant-based diet.
Side effects of going vegan
According to health experts, consistently following a vegan diet can lead to many nutritional deficiencies of vitamin B12, iron, zinc, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
A few other health risks include:
Stroke
Anemia
Vegans can suffer from pernicious anemia, a type of anemia that happens due to a lack of iron and vitamin B12 in their diet. This B vitamin plays an important role in making red blood cells and is mostly found in meat or animal products.
The lack of oxygen due to anemia causes disruptions in organ functions. The deficiencies also cause the formation of abnormal red blood cells with irregular shapes or sizes.
A few symptoms of anemia include:
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Pale skin
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Breathlessness
- Irregular heartbeat
Leaky gut
A vegan diet substitutes plant-based sources of protein like lentils for all animal sources of protein, which if taken in high quantities can cause leaky gut syndrome, due to the presence of phytates and lectin.
Leaky gut syndrome or intestinal hyperpermeability occurs when the tight openings in the intestinal barriers become loose, allowing toxic particles to enter the bloodstream.
Thyroid dysfunction
Studies say those who follow a vegan diet for a longer time are more likely to develop hypothyroidism, as well as other nutritional deficiencies.
Animal products are a rich iodine food source, however, non-meat protein sources like legumes, dairy, grains, soy, and nuts prevent the gut from healing. These foods are reactive and can perpetuate intestinal permeability as well.
Depression
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.