Are you thinking of switching to a plant based diet, but are unsure where to start?
There are some wonderful health benefits of a plant based diet, when done well. But a lot of people make the change without considering the essential nutrients needed for a healthy body and mind, and suffer the consequences down the track.
Here in the clinic I see two common nutrient deficiencies in vegans and vegetarians:
- Iron, which you need for energy production and our immune system. Plant sources include green leafy veg, lentils and beans, organic tofu and tempeh, and whole grains such as buckwheat, millet, and brown rice.
- B12, essential for energy and healthy blood cells. It’s harder to find in plant sources, so supplementation should be considered.
There are a number of other factors to consider, including adequate protein, omega 3, calcium and zinc to name a few.
If you want support making the change, get in touch and we can ensure you thrive in your new plant-based lifestyle.