Vegan Nutrition Profile
We remind you that the information provided below is for general educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
The Vegan Profile is a laboratory panel designed to assess the nutritional status of individuals following a vegan or predominantly plant-based diet. It helps identify potential deficiencies of vitamins, minerals, and proteins that may occur with the exclusion of animal products.
Components
- Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) - assessment of vitamin D levels and bone metabolism status
- Ferritin - evaluation of iron stores in the body
- Total calcium - assessment of mineral balance and bone health
- Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) - evaluation of nervous system function and risk of deficiency in plant-based diets
- Total protein - assessment of overall protein status
- Folic acid - evaluation of cell metabolism and blood formation
- Phosphorus (P) - assessment of mineral metabolism and bone health
Indications
- vegan or vegetarian diet
- monitoring of nutritional status
- chronic fatigue, weakness
- prevention of vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- long-term plant-based diet management
Procedure
The test is performed on an outpatient basis and involves venous blood sampling for laboratory analysis.
Contraindications
There are no absolute contraindications. The test may be temporarily postponed in case of acute infections or severe medical conditions.
Limitations
Results should be interpreted in the context of the patient’s clinical condition and dietary habits. In case of detected deficiencies, dietary correction or supplementation may be required.
Sources:
https://veganhealth.org/daily-needs/laboratory-tests-for-vegans/
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/vitamin-b12-test
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322286
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/iron-tests/
IMPORTANT!
It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnostic tests. Only a qualified healthcare professional can make an accurate diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. To obtain the most accurate and consistent assessment of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.
Preparation:
- blood sampling is recommended in the morning, preferably in a calm and rested state
- 8–12 hours fasting before the test (water only is allowed)
- avoid intense physical activity and heavy exertion for 24 hours prior to testing
- limit alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours before the test
- avoid smoking for 1–2 hours before blood collection
- if agreed with your physician, it is recommended to pause vitamin supplements (especially B12, vitamin D, and iron) 2–3 days before testing
- maintain your usual diet without sudden dietary changes before the test