There are many people who, for one reason or another, have chosen vegetarianism. Completely giving up animal products can have many benefits, but also some harm to the human body.
Vitamin B12 deficiency
In the event that you strictly adhere to vegetarianism and do not consume dairy products, eggs or other animal products, your menu may be deficient in vitamin B12. Symptoms suggestive of vitamin deficiency are anemia, weakness, impaired balance and numbness in the hands and feet and others. Vitamin B12 is important for metabolism, for the maintenance of the central nervous system and for the formation of red blood cells.
Increased risk of colon cancer
Usually hard-to-treat diseases are associated with heavy consumption of red meat. But according to research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vegetarians are at a much higher risk of colon cancer than those who eat meat.
Iron deficiency
Depriving the body of red meat, poultry and fish can lead to iron deficiency, which can be the cause of anemia. Symptoms of low iron include exhaustion, weakness, sluggish cognitive function, chills, and increased susceptibility to infections.
Pregnant women who suffer from iron deficiency often give birth to babies who are premature or who are underweight. Experts recommend that vegetarians consume twice as much iron-rich foods. They should also take foods rich in vitamin C, as they help the body more easily absorb iron from the food they eat.
Lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids
vegetables also contain these fatty acids, but at the same time they differ. Animal products contain long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart he alth.
Zinc deficiency
Zinc is important for the immune system. It is involved in cell division and cell growth and contributes to faster wound healing. Zinc is found in foods high in protein, such as red meat and poultry. Zinc deficiency is recognized by the following symptoms: lack of appetite, frequent infections, hair loss and others.
A good way for vegetarians to get important zinc is to eat more legumes, peanuts and peanut butter, although zinc from animal proteins is more easily absorbed by the body.
Calcium deficiency
of calcium and one of the best ways to get it is from dairy products. If milk and dairy products are not part of your vegetarian diet, eat kale, broccoli, Chinese cabbage, whole grains, and more every day.
Deficiency of calcium can lead to deterioration of bone density and osteoporosis, dental problems and other adverse medical conditions. Calcium helps blood circulate through the body. It is important for muscles, nerves, the transmission of impulses from the brain to the body, and the release of hormones and enzymes.
