NUTR 1322 Basic Nutrition Discussion Post 4

According to DeBruyne et al. (2016), vegetarian diets can offer a range of health benefits, one of which is the reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and various types of cancer.  At the same time, this diet, if designed improperly, can bring a risk of developing deficiencies in certain minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin B-12, for instance. As regards the widespread myth that vegetarian diets can result in insufficient protein intake, science has long proven that it is impossible to design a calorie-sufficient diet, whether it is omnivorous, vegetarian, or vegan, which would lack in protein or even any of the amino acids. In fact, high levels of intake of animal protein significantly increase the risk of premature mortality from all causes, among which is type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer (Johansson, 2018). Nevertheless, if I ever decide to become a vegetarian, I would first conduct rigorous research to understand how I should replace animal protein with plant-based protein. I would also analyze how I should design my diet and which vitamins and minerals to take to prevent any deficiencies.

NUTR 1322 Basic Nutrition Discussion Post  Reply 1

Hello Michelle, thank you for your post, which I found to be really interesting to read! Indeed, vegetarian diets can provide individuals with all necessary vitamins and minerals. I also see that you are well-informed about the plant-based substitutes of animal protein, as you mention such products as seitan, tofu, tempeh, beans, and legumes. Indeed, all these plant-based foods are very rich in protein and can be consumed regularly without producing any adverse effects. These foods are also often fortified with B12 and D vitamins and calcium to ensure that those who have concerns regarding deficiencies that can occur when following a plant-based diet receive additional supplementation. In any case, I agree that vegetarian diets can bring many benefits to humans, including the decreased risk of many life-threatening illnesses and conditions.

NUTR 1322 Basic Nutrition Discussion Post  Reply 2

Dear Dianna, I enjoyed reading your post! I agree with your argument that vegetarian diets can be considered healthy. These diets can help prevent the development of many illnesses and reduce the risk of mortality from all causes, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. The science has long proven that vegetarian diets can be followed by all people, regardless of their age, gender, or any other characteristics. I think that the concerns surrounding these diets that many people express are not based on solid arguments. After all, any diet, including omnivorous, can be unhealthy and result in deficiencies in certain minerals and vitamins. Hence, I believe we should always do our research and think critically to ensure that we have the information to make informed decisions.

References

DeBruyne, L K., Pinna, K., & Whitney, E. (2016). Nutrition and diet therapy. Cengage Learning.

Johansson, G. (2018). Protein deficiency – A rare nutrient deficiency. Lakartidningen, 115(21), 1-9.