학술논문
The importance of vitamin B12 for individuals choosing plant-based diets.
Document Type
Academic Journal
Author
Niklewicz, Ali; Smith, A. David; Smith, Alison; Holzer, Andre; Klein, Andrew; McCaddon, Andrew; Molloy, Anne M.; Wolffenbuttel, Bruce H. R.; Nexo, Ebba; McNulty, Helene; Refsum, Helga; Gueant, Jean-Louis; Dib, Marie-Joe; Ward, Mary; Murphy, Michelle; Green, Ralph; Ahmadi, Kourosh R.; Hannibal, Luciana; Warren, Martin J.; Owen, P. Julian
Source
Springer Nature (New York, New York) Apr2023; v.62 n.3, 1551-1559. (9p)
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
1436-6207
Abstract
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that is not made by plants; consequently, unfortified plant-based foods are not a reliable supply. Recent estimates suggest high rates of vitamin B12 deficiency among the vegetarian and vegan populations, particularly in pregnant women or women of child-bearing age who, for ethical and health reasons, are shifting towards higher consumption of plant-based foods in ever-increasing numbers. Vitamin B12 plays crucial metabolic roles across the life-course and in particular during pregnancy and in early development (first 1000 days of life). Evidence now implicates vitamin B12 deficiency with increased risk to a range of neuro, vascular, immune, and inflammatory disorders. However, the current UK recommended nutrient intake for vitamin B12 does not adequately consider the vitamin B12 deficit for those choosing a plant-based diet, including vegetarianism and in particular veganism, representing a hidden hunger. We provide a cautionary note on the importance of preventing vitamin B12 deficits for those individuals choosing a plant-based diet and the health professionals advising them.