Research for vegetarians
Vegetarian diet eliminates meat, fish and seafood, but allows the consumption of zoonotic products such as eggs and dairy. While this flexibility reduces the risk of some deficiencies (e.g. vitamin B12, compared to a vegan diet), conscious monitoring of key ingredients remains essential. Regular blood diagnostics is the basis for preventive health care, allowing early detection of deficits that can lead to anaemia, bone problems or neurological disorders.
What research should a vegetarian do?
Vegetarians should focus on monitoring those ingredients that are difficult to digest or their concentration in plant products is insufficient.
Haematopoietic and neural indicators
| Study | Problems in the vegetarian diet | Why is it important? |
| Iron, ferritin, morphology | Non-heme (plant) iron is less readily absorbed. | Ferritin assesses iron reserves; prevents anaemia and chronic fatigue. |
| Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) | Low amounts in dairy products and eggs. | Overriding the of the nervous system and haematopoietic processes; prevents neuropathies. |
| Folic acid (vitamin B9) | Usually normal (abundant in plants), but control is necessary. | Essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell production. |
| Homocysteine | Elevated in B12 or folic acid deficiency. | It is a sensitive indicator of B12 deficiency and a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. |
Mineral management and hydration
| Study | Problems in the vegetarian diet | Why is it important? |
| Vitamin D | Low sun exposure; no fish or meat in the diet. | Essential for bone health; prevents osteoporosis. |
| Total calcium | Essential for maintaining normal bone density. | Control when eliminating/reducing dairy. |
| Potassium and sodium | Indicators of water-electrolyte balance. | Potassium is important for work heart and muscles, and a plant-based diet can be high in sodium (from processed foods). |
Metabolic and protein indicators
| Study | Why is it important? |
| Glucose | A basic indicator of carbohydrate metabolism, important in any diet. |
| Albumins and total protein | Assessment of overall nutritional status and effectiveness of plant protein intake. |
| TSH (thyrotropin hormone) | Control of functions thyroid (due to potentially low iodine supply). |
| Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) | Assessment of acid levels for heart and brain health. |
When and why get tested?
Tests for vegetarians should be performed prophylactically, preferably once a year. Consulting the results with a dietician or doctor allows you to individual adjustment of supplementation and balancing your diet, which is the best way to stay healthy on a meat-free diet.
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