Many people choose to go vegan for one reason or another – perhaps it is concern for the treatment of animals, environmental factors or perhaps they are trying to become healthier.

A vegan diet is a type of vegetarian diet that excludes all meat, fish, poultry and dairy products as well as foods that are processed using animal products. While becoming vegan can reap some health benefits, it is not for everyone and there are some important factors to consider before making the decision to switch.

Vegan diets are typically higher in nutrients such as fiber (which can help lower cholesterol), magnesium, potassium, vitamins C& E, iron, antioxidants and overall tends to be lower calorie and lower in saturated fat; however, it involves more planning and discipline to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need.

Common nutrient deficiencies with a vegan diet include calcium, Vitamin D, omega-3, B12 and folate. Because you are eliminating food groups as a vegan, you are eliminating food groups that have these important nutrients. It is important to replace these nutrients so that your body is able to function properly. All vegans need to take some form of B12 whether it is through a supplement or nutrient rich food such as nutritional yeast.

Because a vegan diet is “plant-based,” there is the benefit of reducing risk of cardiovascular disease and the complications associated with diabetes.

Ensuring a well balanced meal by incorporating all of the essential nutrients to nourish your body is important for your health and just like any diet – failure to plan successfully and safely can lead to poor outcomes.