Carson is a vegan. To avoid developing a serious nutritional deficiency, he needs to include a source of in his diet.
Multiple Choice
folate
vitamin B-12
magnesium
fiber
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is vitamin B-12.
Vitamin B-12 is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in brain function and the production of red blood cells. It is primarily found in animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs. Vegans, who avoid these foods, are at a higher risk of developing a deficiency in vitamin B-12. A lack of this vitamin can lead to severe health problems, including anemia, nerve damage, and cognitive decline.
Because vitamin B-12 is not naturally found in plant-based foods, vegans need to pay particular attention to getting this nutrient from fortified foods or supplements. Many plant-based milk, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast products are fortified with vitamin B-12 to help vegans meet their daily requirements. Without supplementation or fortified foods, a vegan diet may not provide enough of this crucial nutrient.
Folate, magnesium, and fiber are also important for a balanced diet, but they are generally more abundant in plant-based foods. Folate is found in dark leafy greens, beans, and legumes; magnesium is found in nuts, seeds, and whole grains; and fiber is abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. While these nutrients are important for overall health, they are not typically a concern for people following a vegan diet, as they are readily available in plant-based foods.
However, vitamin B-12 cannot be obtained in sufficient quantities from plant sources, which is why it requires special attention in a vegan diet. Regularly consuming fortified foods or taking B-12 supplements ensures that Carson can avoid the risks associated with vitamin B-12 deficiency.