The nurse is discussing dietary preferences with a client who adheres to a vegan diet. Which nutrient is at risk for deficiency?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Calcium
• D. Vitamin B12

Answer: (D)

Vegan diets commonly lack vitamin B12 because this nutrient is found almost exclusively in animal-derived foods. Vitamin B12 is essential for forming healthy red blood cells and maintaining nervous system function. The body stores B12 for years, so deficiency can take time to develop, but it can cause anemia and neuropathy if not addressed. Plants do not provide reliable B12 unless foods are fortified, so a vegan who avoids fortified products or supplements is at risk for deficiency. Other nutrients listed can be obtained from vegan-friendly sources—vitamin C from fruits and vegetables, vitamin D from fortified foods and sun exposure, calcium from fortified plant milks and leafy greens—so they are not as consistently deficient in a vegan diet. Therefore, vitamin B12 is the nutrient most at risk for deficiency. To prevent this, emphasize B12 supplementation or consumption of fortified foods.