JOURNAL ARTICLE

Vitamin B12 levels in children and adolescents on plant-based diets: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

  • Published In: Nutrition Reviews, 2023, v. 81, n. 8. P. 951 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Jensen, Christopher F 3 of 3

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined vitamin B12 levels in healthy children and adolescents aged 5 to 18 years following plant-based diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and macrobiotic diets, compared with omnivorous peers. Analyzing 11 cross-sectional studies with 1545 participants, the review found that children and adolescents on plant-based diets, particularly those on vegan and macrobiotic diets, had significantly lower vitamin B12 levels than omnivores, although vegetarians did not show a statistically significant difference. The analysis also indicated that adequate total vitamin B12 intake (above 1 µg/day) may mitigate this difference. Given the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency and its potential impact on growth and cognitive development, the review highlights the importance of monitoring and ensuring sufficient vitamin B12 intake in young individuals adhering to restrictive plant-based diets.

Additional Information

  • Source:Nutrition Reviews. 2023/08, Vol. 81, Issue 8, p951
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:0029-6643
  • DOI:10.1093/nutrit/nuac096
  • Accession Number:164879974
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