Vegetarianism is for you. This diet is in line with your values and principles and you have been following it for some time or are seriously considering it.

Although studies show that this diet is not harmful in itself, it is important to know that it can lead to certain nutritional deficiencies if it is not well planned.

Let’s shed some light on these deficiencies that can affect your overall and oral health.

The most common deficiencies [1]

The most common deficiencies related to the absence of animal products in the diet are: vitamin D, B12, calcium and riboflavin.

In addition to impacting overall health, too little absorption of these elements can compromise oral health.

The importance of vitamin D and Calcium

A balanced intake of vitamin D helps maintain good periodontal health[2]. Otherwise, the risks of developing gum disease and dry mouth syndrome are higher.

For its part, calcium is one of the principal constituents of bones and teeth along with phosphorus. If there is a deficiency, the potential for caries is increased.

In the same way that calcium participates in periodontal health, vitamin D helps with its absorption. One does not go without the other!

Iron, riboflavin (B2) and B12 [3]

Red meat, poultry, fish and dairy products are rich in iron and B12. Insufficient intake can result in a variety of manifestations, including:

  • Mouth sensitivity and the presence of ulcers

    • .

  • Inflammation of the tongue
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Anemia
  • Irritability and depression

A well-balanced vegetarianism is possible

To limit the risk of deficiencies, learn to recognize the plant foods that contain these minerals so important. Legumes, grain products, seeds and nuts, and fruits and vegetables are excellent options.

Beware of acidic foods

Because vegetarians eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, they are at higher risk of developing dental erosion. Therefore, it is best to avoid highly acidic fruits, such as citrus fruits, pineapples and kiwis.

Obviously, alcoholic beverages, coffee, sodas and juices should be consumed in moderation.

In short, the vegetarian diet is no better or worse than any other. You just need to understand it well enough to plan varied and balanced meals.

If you have any questions about your dental health in relation to your diet, do not hesitate to ask us during your follow-up visit.

 

Sources :

[1] https://www.passeportsante.net/fr/Actualites/Dossiers/DossierComplexe.aspx?doc=vegetarisme-vrai-faux-on-ne-trouve-de-la-vitamine-b12-que-dans-les-produits-animaux-faux
Carences B12 = https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4042564/
Fumio Watanabe, Yukinori Yabuta & al. Vitamin B12-Containing Plant Food Sources for Vegetarians, Nutrients. 2014 May; 6(5): 1861–1873.
Carences autres = https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2801576
Millet P., Guilland J.C., Fuchs F., Klepping J. Nutrient intake and vitamin status of healthy French vegetarians and nonvegetarians. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 1989;50:718–727. [PubMed]
[2] https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/nutrition-update-dietary-protein-for-periodontal-health/
[3] https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1113062/vitamin-b12-deficiency-symptoms-signs-foods-diet-tongue-pain