I'm 22 years old, with no major health problems and I'm starting a vegetarian diet soon. Should I consider taking supplements?

Hello Ma'am,

For people on a vegetarian diet, it is possible to meet most macro-nutrient and vitamin intakes via diet.

On the other hand, vegetarians are at greater risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. This vitamin can be found in cereals or fortified soy milk. To avoid a deficiency, it is recommended to take a vitamin B12 supplement. I recommend taking a 1000 mcg/day supplement.

To prevent possible deficiencies, it is recommended that you have blood tests done more regularly. You can discuss this with your doctor.

For more information on the vegetarian diet, I recommend that you visit the following website created by the University of Montreal Nutrition Center: https://www.extenso.org/au-quotidien/vegetarisme/

I would also recommend that you discuss this with a nutritionist if you have any further questions.

I hope I have answered your question!

Happy day,

Kenza Rais, pharmacy intern

supervised by Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist