Vegetarian diet and risk of anemia
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Vegetarian Diet and Anemia Risk: Key Findings
Prevalence of Anemia Among Vegetarians
Research consistently shows that vegetarians, especially women and adolescents, have a higher risk of anemia compared to non-vegetarians. Studies in India and Malaysia found a high prevalence of anemia among vegetarians, with rates ranging from 28% to nearly 80% in some groups, and most cases were classified as moderate anemia 2456. The risk is particularly high among premenopausal women and adolescent girls 56910.
Iron Deficiency and Nutritional Factors
Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in vegetarians. Plant-based diets often provide less iron, and the type of iron found in plants (non-heme iron) is less easily absorbed by the body compared to the heme iron in animal products 12567910. Many vegetarians also have lower intakes of vitamin B12, another nutrient important for preventing anemia, especially among vegans who avoid all animal products 2357910.
Comparison With Non-Vegetarians
Multiple studies show that vegetarians, especially women, have lower iron stores and a higher prevalence of iron deficiency anemia compared to non-vegetarians. For example, the percentage of vegetarian women with low ferritin (a marker of iron stores) is much higher than in non-vegetarians, and this trend is also seen, though less pronounced, in men 26910.
Other Contributing Factors
Socioeconomic status, menstrual blood loss, and other health factors can also influence anemia risk. However, even after accounting for these factors, vegetarian diet remains a strong predictor of anemia in several studies 16. Inadequate protein intake and other micronutrient deficiencies may also contribute, especially in populations with limited dietary diversity 345.
Strategies for Prevention
To address the higher risk of anemia, experts recommend iron supplementation, fortification of vegetarian foods, and dietary counseling to improve iron and vitamin B12 intake. Consuming vitamin C-rich foods can help enhance iron absorption from plant sources 17810. Special attention should be given to women, adolescents, and those following strict vegan diets 15910.
Conclusion
Vegetarian diets are associated with a higher risk of anemia, mainly due to lower intake and absorption of iron and vitamin B12. This risk is most pronounced in women and adolescents. Preventive strategies such as dietary education, food fortification, and supplementation are important to reduce anemia among vegetarians.
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