Going plant-based sounds like the ultimate wellness glow-up—your plate full of vibrant greens, rainbow veggies, and meat-free everything.
Your body’s thanking you, your conscience is clear, and your Instagram feed looks like a nutritionist’s dream. However, somewhere between the lentils and kale chips, there may be a few essential nutrients quietly slipping through the cracks.
Plant-based diets can be rich in fibre, antioxidants, and heart-friendly goodness, according to Healthline. However, Harvard Health pointed out that some nutrients are harder to come by without animal products.
It is stated that Vitamin B12, for instance, is one that often misses the invite. It’s mostly found in animal products, which means vegans and even some vegetarians need to be more intentional, possibly supplementing to keep energy levels up and brain fog down, adds the above source.
Iron is another sneaky one. While spinach has iron, it’s not as easily absorbed as the kind found in red meat, states Harvard Health. Pairing iron-rich veggies with vitamin C-packed foods like oranges or bell peppers can help your body make the most of it.
Medical News Today claims that omega-3 fatty acids, the kind that support your brain and mood, are another piece that’s often missing unless you’re diving into flaxseed or algae-based supplements.
Zinc, calcium, and iodine can also be tricky to maintain if your meals lack variety, according to the health source above. The key isn’t to abandon your plant-based journey but to check in with your plate every now and then. Diversity is everything—think legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens on rotation.
Going plant-based isn’t just about what you cut out. It’s about building a thoughtful, complete plate that loves your body back. A few small tweaks can help your diet do more than look good, because wellness is a whole-picture thing, not just a colourful meal on a bamboo plate.
Also see: Why crash diets fail and what your body actually needs
