The rise in specialized diets has put many people at risk for mineral deficiency. When one chooses to follow a restricted diet, such as veganism, they are putting themselves at risk of becoming deficient in key minerals such as calcium or magnesium. Individuals are also at risk of becoming deficient in less key, buy still important, minerals such as iron or zinc. Long term mineral deficiency can cause serious problems such as increased risk of bone fracture or impaired cell development. Those who follow restrictive diets are encouraged to supplement using one of the many forms of minerals that fits their dietary and lifestyle needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Weight loss diets can cause deficiencies because most of these diets eliminate certain essential food groups.
- With the lack of intake of certain food groups, dieters are also missing out on essential minerals they would get from those food groups.
- In order to avoid deficiencies the missing minerals will have to come from supplements.
“Depending on what the particular diet is omitting, certain essential minerals are being omitted as well. According to the National Institute of Health studies show that “Vegans had a lower energy intake compared to other diets. In addition, the vegetarians had a significantly lower energy intake compared to the omnivores.”
Read more: http://www.wholefoodsmagazine.com/supplements/features-supplements/mineral-deficiency-dilemma/