Nutrient Concerns for Vegetarian
Athletes
Vegetarian and vegan diets are now
common in the UK. People choose to eat a vegetarian or vegan
diet for a variety of reasons such as cultural, moral or health
reasons. In athletes the reason may include meeting increased
carbohydrate needs or to assist in weight control.
A nutritionally sound vegetarian or vegan diet
is possible IF enough energy is consumed from a WIDE
variety of foods. However, an athlete who consumes a poorly
planned vegetarian diet may be at risk from nutritional deficiencies
as well as poor physical performance.
Definitions
Semi-vegetarian diet exludes some but not
all groups of animal derived products (for example those who
avoid meat but not fish).
Vegan / strict vegetarian diet excludes
all animal derived foods including meat, poultry, fish, eggs,
and dairy products. An athlete, without consultation from a
dietician, should not attempt a vegan diet, especially young
children & adolescents as this could have health risks.
Specific Information
Useful Web Links
| VegSoc |
Vegetarian Society website providing
a variety of useful information from recipes to info. for
new vegetarians. |
| IVU |
International Vegetarian Union
- information from across the world and the option to join
the Union. |
| VRG |
Vegetarian Resource Group - for
the vegan and vegetarian. Recipes, restaurant information,
nutrition information and more. |
| Vegan
Chef |
Recipes and information for vegetarians
and vegans. |
|
