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The Great Vegan Miscalculation: Why Plant-Based Diets Are Failing The Health Test

New research reveals that despite adequate protein, modern vegan diets are often high in processed junk food and alarmingly deficient in key micronutrients.

By Foodie Pundit Newsroom - Published - Updated - Section: Health Nutrition

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Key points

  • A significant portion of modern vegan diets, nearly 25%, is comprised of highly processed "junk" foods, undermining the health benefits.
  • Even with supplementation, vegans are at high risk for deficiencies in key micronutrients like Vitamin B12, calcium, iodine, and zinc.
  • While total protein intake is adequate in vegan diets, the reliance on processed protein sources over whole foods can mask poor overall nutritional quality.
  • The "health halo" of plant-based products may lead consumers to overlook high levels of sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats in vegan convenience foods.

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