Summary
This narrative review examines the nutritional profile of vegan diets relative to milk-based diets, drawing on published literature to identify potential deficiencies associated with the exclusion of animal products. The paper highlights that while vegan diets may confer certain health benefits, they frequently fall short in providing key nutrients — particularly vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and high-quality protein — that are readily and abundantly supplied by dairy. The review appears intended to inform consumers and practitioners about the nutritional considerations required to sustain a well-planned vegan diet.
UK applicability
The findings are broadly applicable to the UK context, where veganism has grown substantially and where public health guidance from bodies such as the NHS and the British Dietetic Association addresses similar nutrient adequacy concerns for those following plant-based diets.
Key measures
Nutrient content (vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, protein); dietary adequacy indicators; comparison of bioavailability across vegan and dairy food sources
Outcomes reported
The review assessed the nutritional adequacy of vegan diets compared with milk-based diets, reporting on key nutrient gaps including vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and protein. It evaluated the relative health implications of excluding dairy from the diet.
Topic tags
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