What are some dietary concerns about eating vegetarian?

Question

What vitamins should I be taking if I cut meat out of my diet?

Answer 1

The primary vitamin that you *could* miss is B-12. It is found in all products of animal origin. If you continue to eat eggs and dairy, you'll get plenty of it, but if not, then you need to find another source.



Some people worry (unnecessarily) about protein. The average western diet has *way* too much protein in it. As long as you eat a variety of foods, you almost *can't* suffer from protein deficiency.



Iron can sometimes be a problem. Meat has more iron than vegetarian foods, and it is in a form that is more easily absorbed from the food. One of the best ways to be sure you are getting enough iron is to cook in cast iron pots and pans. Iron that is absorbed by the food is usually well-absorbed by the human body. One of the best ones is long-cooking tomato sauce because the longer you cook, the higher the iron, and acidic foods like tomatoes will add iron particularly well. Eating vitamin C together with iron aids in absorption, so add in a fresh red pepper (the best food source of vitamin C) or citrus fruit.

Answer 2

I have been a vegetarian for 30 years. Do I feel better because of it. I don't know as I no longer have a point of comparison. Feel better than what? I do not go to extremes. I eat a mixture of vegetables, grains, fruits, and milk products. In the 30 years I have run marathons, completed a 22 military career, and keep plugging away. I do take standard vitamin supplements everyday, but I am not necessarily concerned about a protein deficiency. I am doing just fine.

Answer 3

Everyone is different until you balance out. Speaking only for me, the issue was protein. I ate only range cattle, chicken, etc., which is high in natural protein and has virtually no chemical toxins. All the beans, etc., did not put enough natural protein back into my system. I finally balanced out after several months of supplements. Re: vitamins? Never was an issue in my case but I bet you'll get some great suggestions from those that endured their own withdrawals. Our bodies are all different so no one answer to excellent question.

Answer 4

None if you are going to substitute beans, whole grains, nuts and soy products.



Only meat lovers, meat producers or people that want t justify their own bad choices are going to argue with this.



The only concern I have is Omega3 fatty acids that are in fish. I do not know of any source for ETA omega3 oils. Flax and Borage have LA, GLA, ALA Omega3's, but not ETA.



Although I am 95% vegan, I still eat wild Salmon, Sardines, and Mackerel. For they are the highest sources.

Answer 5

Getting enough protein is a real concern. You have to know how to get complete proteins in your diet.

Answer 6

there is only one vitamin which the vegitarian lack to get from food is vit b12.you can get it from sprouts,milk.the calcium need is also met by taking milk and milk products of low calorie type.you have to take lots of fruits that wil give you vits, and minerals.by consuming legumes you can get iron and what we call dals,bengal gram and others you get protiens.with whole grain make foods you get fibres.

Answer 7

take B complex.

Answer 8

YOUR BECOMING A VEGETARIAN?WOW,I COULD NEVER MAKE THAT CHANGE IN MY LIFE.PRETTY BRAVE.