Important Brain Food That Vegans May Be Deficient In
 In a recent article, Dr. Mercola states that vegans may be lacking very important brain-friendly vitamins.
Since vitamin B12 is only found in animal tissues, most vegans and vegetarians have been found to be deficient in this pertinent "brain food."
The average non-vegetarian stores a fair amount of B12 in their bloodstream on any given day. When B12 is not consumed through food or supplementation, it stands to reason that one would become deficient.
Vitamin B12 deficiency may lead to brain fog, fatigue, lack of initiative, muscle weakness and apathy. Over time, these seemingly minor symptoms can progress to much greater issues such as nerve damage, depression, numbness/tingling in the hands and feet, nervousness, paranoia, impaired memory and behavioral changes.
In Dr. Mercola's opinion, those who partake in a strict vegan diet are at risk, as he believes there are far too many health consequences to become deficient in this essential nutrient.
"Over time, if long-term, chronic B12 deficiency develops it can lead to serious, irreversible conditions including depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s, anemia, neurological conditions, infertility in women, heart disease and cancer."
Good sources of B12 include: beef and beef liver, snapper, salmon, scallops, lamb, venison, shrimp, poultry and eggs.
Whether you're vegan or not, if you do not get sufficient lean animal protein in your diet, Dr. Mercola recommends immediately increasing your intake or investing in a high-quality, sublingual B12 supplement.
 Mary Barbour Date 2/17/2012 9:40:38 AM
Interesting info on B12
Susan Date 2/20/2012 9:49:48 AM
Great!! Glad to know that "lamp" is a good source of B-12. I believe that would be considered vegan. :)
Imogene Date 2/20/2012 12:00:34 PM
I found that the taste and sight of any meat I gag. I still try too eat it but still don't think it's enough, my muscles are very weak most of the time. How much meat would I have too eat to strength my muscles? So I don't feel this way?
Hansa Date 2/20/2012 11:58:58 PM
Why would you think that your muscles are weak from lack of meat in your diet? There are millions of people in the world who are vegetarian and do hours of manual labor to survive who have no problems with muscle weakness. I am a vegetarian myself. You may think that I am biased, but you should seek a doctors advice. Why subject yourself to eating meat when your body is obviously telling you it doesn't like it. Maybe a gradual exercise program to build muscle tone and strengthen your muscles. It
Jewel Date 2/21/2012 9:44:52 AM
I have been a Vegan for over 5 yrs. & have enjoyed great health, not so much as a headache. Just had my blood work checked; all levels were great! In my study of B12, I have found that the human body does not require much B12; it is stored in quantity in the liver & when we need it, the supply is there. I have heard teaching of the Hallelujah Diet which I favor say to have B12 every 2 days.
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