Best Nutritional Supplements for Vegan

As a vegan, you know the importance of getting the right nutrients to maintain a healthy lifestyle. A vegan diet can be a great way to get all the nutrients you need, but sometimes it’s not enough. That’s where nutritional supplements come in. Here are some of the best nutritional supplements for vegans to consider.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that helps keep your nerve and blood cells healthy. It’s also needed to make DNA, which is the genetic material in all cells. As a vegan, you may not be getting enough vitamin B12 in your diet, as it’s mostly found in animal products.

A vitamin B12 supplement is a must for any vegan. You can find it in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and drops. Look for a supplement that contains at least 100% of your daily recommended intake.

Iron

Iron is an important mineral that helps your body produce red blood cells. It’s also necessary for energy production and immune function. As a vegan, you may be at risk for iron deficiency, as the iron found in plant-based foods is not as easily absorbed as the iron found in animal products.

To help ensure you’re getting enough iron, consider taking an iron supplement. Look for a supplement that contains ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate, as these forms are better absorbed by the body. Be sure to take your iron supplement with vitamin C, as this can help improve absorption.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that play a role in brain function, heart health, and inflammation. They’re mostly found in fatty fish, which is not a part of a vegan diet.

To get your omega-3s, consider taking an algae-based supplement. Algae is a great source of EPA and DHA, the two types of omega-3s that are most important for health. Look for a supplement that contains at least 200-300 mg of EPA and DHA combined.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is an important vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. It also plays a role in immune function and mood regulation. While your body can make vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, it’s not always possible to get enough sunlight year-round.

Consider taking a vitamin D supplement to help ensure you’re getting enough. Look for a supplement that contains at least 600-800 IU of vitamin D per day.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that helps your body produce DNA and protein. It also plays a role in immune function, wound healing, and taste perception. While zinc is found in a variety of plant-based foods, it’s not as easily absorbed as the zinc found in animal products.

Consider taking a zinc supplement to help ensure you’re getting enough. Look for a supplement that contains at least 11 mg of zinc per day.

Conclusion

While a vegan diet can provide you with many health benefits, it’s important to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs. By taking these nutritional supplements, you can help ensure you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs to thrive. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your diet to ensure they’re safe for you to take.