Omnivores are more likely to meet their nutritional recommendations than vegetarians, according to a new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The analysis of the diets of over 24,000 US adults using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2007 and 2010, discovered that vegetarians were more likely to have inadequate intake of nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. The findings suggest that plant-based diets may require more careful planning to ensure adequate nutrition, such as incorporating fortified foods or supplements. Vegetarians were however more likely to meet recommendations for fibre intake.
New Study Finds Omnivores More Likely to Meet Nutritional Recommendations Than Vegetarians
A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has found that omnivores are more likely to meet their nutritional recommendations than vegetarians. The study, which analyzed data from over 24,000 adults in the United States, also found that vegetarians were more likely to have inadequate intake of certain nutrients.
Study Details
The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2010. Participants completed 24-hour recall interviews where they reported all food and drinks consumed in the previous day. The researchers then analyzed the data to determine how closely each participant’s diet met the recommended intake of various nutrients.
Findings
The study found that omnivores were more likely to meet their recommended intake for 14 out of the 17 nutrients analyzed, including protein, vitamin B12, and iron. Vegetarians were more likely to have inadequate intake of nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, vegetarians were more likely to meet recommended intake for fiber.
Implications
The study’s findings suggest that while plant-based diets can be healthy, they may require more careful planning to ensure adequate nutrient intake. The authors of the study note that “vegetarians need to be aware of these nutrients and be intentional about incorporating them into their diets through fortified foods or supplements.”
FAQs
1. What is the recommended intake for vitamin B12?
The recommended intake for vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms per day for adults.
2. How can vegetarians ensure adequate intake of vitamin B12?
Vegetarians can ensure adequate intake of vitamin B12 by consuming fortified foods (such as fortified breakfast cereals or plant-based milks) or by taking supplements.
3. What are some plant-based sources of iron?
Plant-based sources of iron include fortified breakfast cereals, legumes, tofu, tempeh, and dark leafy greens (like spinach and kale).
4. What is the recommended intake for fiber?
The recommended intake for fiber is 25 grams per day for women and 38 grams per day for men.
5. How can vegetarians ensure adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids?
Vegetarians can ensure adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids by consuming foods that are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. They can also consider taking supplements that contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids that are found mainly in fish.
