A nurse is conducting a dietary assessment of a patient who is on a vegan diet. The nurse should plan to provide dietary teaching focused on food items high in which vitamin that may be absent in the vegan diet?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Vitamin B12

Rationale:

Vitamin B12 is crucial for nerve function, the production of DNA, and the formation of red blood cells. It is primarily found in animal products, which makes it difficult for individuals on a vegan diet to obtain it naturally.
Since vegans do not consume animal products, they are at a higher risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency. This deficiency can lead to various health issues including anemia, neurological problems, and fatigue.
Dietary teaching for vegans should focus on incorporating Vitamin B12-fortified foods or supplements to ensure they receive an adequate amount of this essential nutrient.

Explanation of Other Options:

Vitamin A

Rationale: Vitamin A is found in both animal and plant-based foods. Vegans can obtain sufficient Vitamin A from plant sources such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy green vegetables, which contain beta-carotene that the body can convert into Vitamin A.

Vitamin C

Rationale: Vitamin C is abundant in various fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli. Vegans typically consume a diet rich in these foods, so deficiency is less likely.

Vitamin E

Rationale: Vitamin E is found in a variety of plant-based foods such as nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Therefore, vegans can easily meet their Vitamin E needs through their diet.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, Vitamin B12 is the most critical nutrient that may be absent in a vegan diet, requiring attention in dietary planning. This is because Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in animal-based foods, and its deficiency can lead to significant health issues. Hence, vegans should be educated on the importance of incorporating Vitamin B12-fortified foods or supplements in their diet.