Plant-based dairy alternative products, such as nut milks (e.g., oat and almond milks), are very popular these days. Especially for those following vegan diets. This is why doctors are increasingly concerned that avoiding all real dairy foods (milk, yogurt, cheese), and only consuming plant-based alternatives is resulting in micronutrient deficiencies.
The biggest concerns are with iodine, B vitamins, calcium, and choline. Micronutrient deficiencies can have an effect on growth, thyroid, and brain development. A recent study pointed out that deficiencies can be especially harmful for children, young persons, and women of childbearing age.
One way to avoid these micronutrient deficiencies is to consume real dairy products as part of the diet. Or can consume plant-based dairy alternative products that have been fortified with these nutrients.
Excerpts from The Guardian: Swapping from dairy to plant-based milk, cheese and yoghurt ‘could lead to micronutrient deficiencies’
Switching from dairy products to plant-based alternatives could lead to deficiencies in vital micronutrients, especially among young people and women, a study has found. ...continue reading "Plant-Based Dairy Alternatives Can Lead to Micronutrient Deficiencies"