Topic > Vegetarian and Vegan Diets - 2195

In contemporary society, vegan diets have become prolific, especially among young men and women. Unlike vegetarians who do not eat meat (the flesh of animals), vegans do not consume any animal food sources such as milk, butter. Many vegans also refrain from using animal products such as wool and leather. Reasons for these nutritional preferences may include environmental issues, ethical questions about the treatment of animals, the health benefits of a vegan diet, and fear of animal-borne diseases. Jenny Brown, a light-skinned teenager, started her vegan diet two years ago. He does not take any food supplements and is currently 14 years old. Jenny's vegan diet may reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood as studies show that adult vegans have lower rates of obesity, cancer and cardiovascular disease than omnivorous people. Although his current diet is rich in plant-based nutrients such as vitamins E and C, magnesium, fiber, folic acid and unsaturated fats, it is deficient in other important nutrients which include iron, iodine, vitamins D and B-12, zinc, calcium , omega-3 fatty acids, proteins and energy. Jenny must regularly consume foods that contain these vital nutrients, otherwise she will increase her risk of developing certain nutritional deficiencies and various health problems. It is during these growth periods that Jenny is exposed to great risks associated with nutrient deficiencies in her diet. A vegan diet, composed of a high fiber content and a low caloric density, often does not allow an adequate amount of energy to be consumed before the person feels full. Children need adequate energy for growth and development. Without sufficient energy it becomes difficult to satisfy... the middle of the paper... vegetarian and even vegan children are within the normal range, even though they are usually thinner than omnivorous children. Conversely, inadequate planning and preparation or severely restricted diets can lead to impaired or delayed growth due to various nutritional deficiencies. Adequate nutrition can be provided by a vegan diet when parents or guardians are informed. To safely manage her vegan diet, Jenny can consult a dietician who is experienced in this area. Unlike a balanced vegetarian diet, which can meet all nutritional needs, Jenny will need to at least take vitamin B12 supplements and take additional precautions and considerations based on her age and stage of development. As a growing young teenager, it is of the utmost importance that Jenny's diet is restricted as little as possible to reduce the risks of developing nutritional deficiencies.