One study found very low intakes of calcium and vitamin D among macrobiotic infants. Another study found low serum concentrations of vitamin D among lactating macrobiotic women living in Boston. Macrocytic anemia Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency have been observed in some breast-fed infants of women who are strict vegetarians. Therefore, adequate energy intake should be the foremost consideration in vegan dietary planning. Low protein digestability and quality are other potential risks.
Protein quality depends on both digestibility and amino acid composition.
Single plant protein foods usually are lower in protein quality than most animal proteins because they lack significant amounts of various essential amino acids. Protein Complementation Proteins low in certain amino acids can be combined with others containing them to form complete amino acid mixtures. Not as limited Any of above Vegetables with yogurt dressing Plant foods low in particular amino acids can be combined with other plant or animal foods containing them to provide an mixture containing all of the essential amino acids. Both body protein breakdown and amino acids from recently ingested proteins provide a general body pool of amino acids that can temporarily fill any gaps. Choose foods that provide enough iron, calcium, and zinc.