0
The only nutrient that humans need that cannot be found naturally in plant foods is vitamin B12.
Actually, neither plants nor animals synthesize vitamin B12: only bacteria make the biologically active form. Animal tissues can store the B12 made by the bacteria, which can then be passed along to carnivores when they eat animal tissue. Ruminants (cows, goats, sheep, giraffes, llamas, buffalo, and deer) have bacteria in their rumens (stomachs) that synthesize vitamin B12, which is then passed down and absorbed by their small intestines. Large carnivores get their B12 from eating these grazers.
Your digestive tract also contains B12-synthesizing bacteria, which is one reason that vitamin B12 deficiency disease is rare in humans, even among vegans. Most of the bacteria is in your colon, and B12 is absorbed "upstream" in the ileum, so you don't absorb the B12 that's made in your colon unless it somehow gets back into your upper digestive tract. Feces contain large amounts of active B12. Our ancestors lived in close contact with each other and their farm animals, and they got their B12 by eating unsanitized food. We now live in over-sanitized conditions, and the need for B12 supplementation for vegans is the result of our obsession with cleanliness.
If you were raised on an omnivorous diet, you probably have about 2 to 5 milligrams of B12 stored, mostly in your liver. That's at least a three-year reserve. Your body can conserve this supply by reabsorbing B12 from your bile, making your reserves last an average of 20 to 30 years after becoming a strict vegan if you consume no B12. In reality, you do get small amounts of B12 from your intestinal bacteria, unwashed vegetables, and the environment.
When you consume vitamin B12, hydrochloric acid in your stomach separates it from any protein to which it may be attached. Then, vitamin B12 combines with a protein made by your stomach called intrinsic factor and is absorbed by your body. Some people have pernicious anemia, a condition where they cannot make intrinsic factor. As a result, they have trouble absorbing vitamin B12 from food and supplements.
The amount of vitamin B12 you need each day depends on your age. For most adults, it's 2.4 micrograms (mcg).
Nori, the dried sea vegetable used to make sushi, has substantial amounts of active vitamin B12, which it obtains from symbiotic bacteria that live on it. Some breakfast cereals, nutritional yeasts, and other food products that are fortified with vitamin B12. To find out if vitamin B12 has been added to a food product, check the product labels.
Vitamin B12 is also found in almost all multivitamins. Check the Supplement Facts label to determine the amount of vitamin B12 provided.
Many people other than vegans may not get enough vitamin B12 or have trouble absorbing it:
- People over 50 may not have enough hydrochloric acid in their stomachs to absorb vitamin B12 in food, and should rely on fortified foods or dietary supplements, which in most cases, don't rely on stomach acid to be absorbed.
- People with pernicious anemia whose bodies do not make the intrinsic factor needed to get vitamin B12 shots, although very high oral doses of vitamin B12 might also be effective.
- People who have had gastrointestinal surgery, such as weight loss surgery, or who have digestive disorders, such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease, may not be able to absorb vitamin B12 as well.
What else can I help you with?
Are vegetarians against gelatine?
Not all vegetarians eat gelatine, but as an ovo-lacto vegetarian, I find no problem with its taste or texture.
Why are my plant's leaves turning yellow and developing spots?
Yellowing leaves with spots on your plant could be a sign of various issues such as nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, or overwatering. It's important to identify the specific cause to address the problem effectively.
What is the problem with nutrient?
It goes into our waterways.
Why are my plant's yellow leaves developing brown spots?
Yellow leaves with brown spots on plants can be a sign of various issues such as nutrient deficiencies, fungal diseases, pests, or overwatering. It is important to identify the specific cause in order to address the problem effectively.
What is the significance of black leaves in the context of plant health and growth?
Black leaves on a plant can indicate a variety of issues such as fungal diseases, nutrient deficiencies, or overwatering. It is important to identify the specific cause in order to address the problem and promote the plant's health and growth.
Why do yellow rhubarb leaves indicate a problem with the plant's health?
Yellow rhubarb leaves indicate a problem with the plant's health because they are a sign of nutrient deficiency, particularly lack of nitrogen. This can affect the plant's ability to grow and produce properly.
Why are your green grape tomatoes fall off the vine?
Green grape tomatoes may fall off the vine due to several factors, including environmental stress, such as inconsistent watering or extreme temperatures. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly a lack of potassium or calcium, can also lead to blossom drop. Additionally, poor pollination and pests can contribute to the problem. Ensuring stable growing conditions and proper care can help reduce fruit drop.
What dietary problems do vegetarians have?
It isn't really a problem, but vegetarians have be careful to get enough vitamin B12; this comes mainly from meat, dairy and eggs so vegetarians who eat dairy and eggs shouldn't have a problem. Vegans, who don't eat dairy or eggs may take supplements although many prepared vegan meals contain extra B12.
Why do avocado leaves turn brown?
Avocado leaves turn brown due to various reasons such as overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, pests, diseases, or environmental stress. Brown leaves may indicate a problem with the plant's health and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
Are there any particular vitamins a vegetarian specifically needs?
Traditionally, vegetarians have to watch their intake of B12 which comes from meat and fish, but it also comes from milk and eggs. In practise, vegetarians in the West - where people chose to be vegetarians - are very aware of what they are eating so vitamins aren't a problem.
Im a medical marijuana patient growing cannabis the leaves of my cannabis plant plant are curled up what is the problem?
Curled leaves on your cannabis plant can indicate several issues, including nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations. If the leaves are curling upward, it may suggest a nutrient burn or excessive light exposure. Conversely, if they are curling downward, it could be a sign of underwatering or root problems. Inspect your plant for signs of pests and check your watering and nutrient regimen to identify and resolve the issue.
What is potential problem associated with a vegan diet for toddlers?
A potential problem associated with a vegan diet for toddlers is the risk of nutrient deficiencies, particularly in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for growth and development. Toddlers may also struggle to consume adequate calories and protein from plant-based sources alone. Careful planning and, in some cases, supplementation are necessary to ensure they receive a balanced diet that supports their nutritional needs. Parents should consult with a pediatrician or a nutritionist to ensure their child’s dietary requirements are met.
