A vegan diet can lower your risk of having high blood pressure by 75% and improve your overall health.
Many people are under the impression that vegan diets are boring and not as nutritious, but this isn’t the truth.
A vegan diet is full of vitamins and nutrients, that the body needs, but sometimes an extra boost is needed for absorption.
Continue reading to discover some of the best supplements for vegans so that your body can properly use what you are eating!
Vitamin D
One of the best supplements for vegans to take is vitamin D, which plays a role in memory and muscle recovery.
Vitamin D is also responsible for proper immune system functioning and regulating moods. Older adults and pregnant women should take a slightly larger dose to maintain healthy levels of the vitamin.
A great way to get more vitamin D is by taking supplements or sitting out in the sun.
If you choose to get your daily dose through the sun, don’t skimp on sunscreen. Even on cloudy and cool days the sun’s rays can damage your skin and increase your chances of getting cancer.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids are crucial to a vegan diet because they help maintain brain and eye functioning.
If you want to improve brain development, omega-3 fatty acids can also help. Vegans typically get this supplement from walnuts, soybeans, and flax or chia seeds. Fish oil supplements are another excellent source of omega-3s. Omega-3 fatty acids can even reduce inflammation and depression!
B-12 Vitamins
If you are buying supplements for a vegan diet, you won’t want to forget B-12.
B-12 vitamins are so helpful because they metabolize proteins and promote a healthy nervous system. These vitamins can also help increase red blood cell production. Nutritional yeast, soy, and nut milk are excellent sources of B-12 vitamins. You can also get capsules and chewable vitamins.
bone and heart disease, along with anemia, can occur when your body doesn’t receive enough B-12. Try eating organic produce and mushrooms to increase your daily intake. B-12 is an all in one supplement for vegans that will improve more than your nervous system.
Iron
In order for the body to create new red blood cells, it must be able to carry oxygen in the blood.
An iron supplement can be found with other vitamins at the store or local pharmacy. Men typically have higher levels of iron, but women often need to take more.
Iron supplements are helpful because they increase oxygen in the blood and help energy become metabolized. Without enough iron, you may feel tired mentally and physically. You may also notice that your immune system takes a toll. Avoid going too long without taking iron supplements, otherwise, you increase the risk of getting anemia.
Zinc
Eating a plant-based diet can put you at risk for not consuming enough zinc.
Zinc is crucial for vegans because it helps the body recover and repair cells. People with low zinc levels can deal with diarrhea, development problems, and hair loss. Whole grains, nuts, and seeds are excellent sources of zinc, so try to fit them into your diet when you can.
The Best Supplements for Vegans
Finding the right supplements for vegans can be difficult if you are new to the diet.
Many plant-based foods have lower levels of iron and zinc, making it important to take supplements for proper body functioning. Vegans should also be ensuring that they get enough omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D.
Most veggies and green leaf products are packed with minerals and nutrients. Do your research to discover what you specifically need.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about the vegan diet and how you can improve your health!