Are there any risks associated with cutting out meat and animal products?
A. Actually, there are. Eating no animal products can put you at risk for a vitamin B-12 deficiency, which can lead to irreversible nerve damage. Our vitamin B-12 requirement is very small, however, and vegetarians could meet their need with fortified breakfast cereal or a B-12 supplement. If you remove all dairy from your diet, you may lack calcium and vitamin D, which can increase your risk for osteoporosis. As a result, vegetarians are advised to consume plenty of plant sources of calcium, including leafy greens, beans and soy foods. To get enough vitamin D, which enhances calcium absorption, seek out fortified cereals and soymilk.
