Are There Risks to Eating Vegan?

Sincerely, New Vegan with Questions

Dear NVWQ,

First, congrats on embracing a more compassionate lifestyle. As far as book suggestions to help clear up some of the science, my picks would be Vegan for Life by Jack Norris & Virginia Messina & Becoming Vegan, Express Edition by Brenda Davis & Vesanto Melina.

Jack Norris also have a pretty in-depth website addressing vegan health from a very unbiased science approach: veganhealth.org

Also, you may the articles on my website (anyatodd.com) to be helpful, along with my entries here on the YDV site.

The only risk which exists in following a vegan diet is failing to take a regular vitamin B12 supplement or consuming fortified foods with the nutrient. And yes, our bodies do create the cholesterol it needs. I have not seen any worthy research to convince me that lack of animal fat for cholesterol is detrimental to anyone’s health.

I hope you find the resources I provided to be of use to you. Thank you for writing!

Ask Anya is a weekly column written by dietitian Anya Todd on vegan health to help educate others on how to live healthier and more fulfilling lives. Anya covers hot topics and commonly asked questions about vegan nutrition. Do you have questions or concerns you would like to see addressed? Simply send Anya an email to [email protected].

Disclaimer: Anya cannot answer any specific questions related to medical conditions, please stick to general questions about diseases, nutrition, or healthy vegan diets.

Photo credit: StefZ via Flickr