A recent article published by the Express has reported on a study revealing that vegetarians aren't receiving all the necessary vitamins and nutrients they need.
2,498 British vegetarian surveyed
The study looked at 2,498 British vegetarians, all of whom had been vegetarian for two years or more. The survey was conducted by the protein supplement company P-Fit as part of the research into Britons attitudes towards nutrition. All the vegetarians taking part were asked whether they thought they were malnourished due to their vegetarian diet, and lacking essential nutrients.
Just under a quarter admitted to being malnourished
The research showed that when surveyed just under 25% of the participants thought they were malnourished. Of those who said they were malnourished 61% said they were lacking protein in their diet, 58% admitted they were lacking iron and 36% said they didn't have enough vitamin B12 in their diet.
Some suffer migraines and headaches
Further to this 79% of the participants who said they were malnourished admitted they were suffering negative consequences when it came to their general health. This included having a lack or energy, feeling faint and suffering headaches or migraines.
..being a vegetarian means you really have to work to make up the nutrients you are losing..
Ross Beagrie, managing director of P-Fit.co.uk said: "This is a really taboo subject and a very touchy one for a lot of people who opt out of eating meat.
“Many vegetarians insist that they are just as healthy, or healthier, than meat eaters; but the fact remains that being a vegetarian means you really have to work to make up the nutrients you are losing in animal products.
“Protein and vitamin supplements should be your best friend; these will help to provide your body with what it needs and prevent you from becoming malnourished.
“Being undernourished is a serious issue and can lead to a myriad of health problems, all of which are preventable whether you are a vegetarian or not.
“Do not ignore the symptoms and suffer in silence; there are ways to rectify your diet and, in turn, your health.”
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.