In the 'Symptoms - Food - Preferences' section of our in-depth questionnaire we ask the following question about vegetarian, vegan or raw-food-vegan diet:
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Is your diet vegetarian or vegan? Vegetarians may eat eggs and/or dairy products, but no meat of any kind. Strict vegetarians (vegans) do not eat anything that comes from animals. Raw food vegans are vegans who eat most of their fruit/vegetables uncooked.
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Your answer |
...indicates |
...and suggests |
| 1. |
"No" |
Omnivorous diet |
A risk factor |
| 2. |
"Part-time - on average at least one day per week" |
Partial vegetarian diet |
A risk factor |
| 3. |
"Vegetarian (eggs/dairy but no meat/fish/fowl)" |
Vegetarian diet |
A risk factor |
| 4. |
"Vegan (I eat no animal products at all)" |
Vegan diet |
A risk factor |
| 5. |
"Raw food vegan (at least 70% raw fruit/vegetables)" |
Raw food diet |
A risk factor |
(If your response is 4 or 5 then you will be asked further questions about vegetarian, vegan or raw-food-vegan diet later.)
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Your answer will affect the likelihoods of the conditions below.
Any answers in green reduce the likelihood of the condition.
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| Answers |
Condition |
Comment |
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5 |
A Raw Food/Fruitarian Diet |
(Obvious connection) |
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4 |
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A Vegan Diet |
(Obvious connection) |
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3 |
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A Vegetarian Diet |
(Obvious connection) |
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2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
Atherosclerosis |
The vegetarian diet promotes stabilization or possible reversal of the atherogenic process. |
1 |
2 |
3 |
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Bladder Cancer |
A diet high in saturated fat (which is generally found in animal products) is a major risk factor for bladder cancer. |
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2 |
3 |
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Cancer, General |
There has long been suspicion that components of meat and dairy were absorbed intact through the human digestive tract, triggering autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and childhood diabetes as our bodies try to fight off these foreign substances. In October of 2003, researchers published new evidence that a substance found in lamb, pork, beef and dairy can build up in human tissues and may contribute to chronic disease.
Taking autopsy samples, traces of a molecule called NeuGc can be found in human tissues, particularly in human tumors (especially breast cancer). Relatively high concentrations of anti-NeuGc antibodies can also be found in human blood. This mystified researchers, as human beings can not produce this substance. However, other animals can. Maybe, the researchers proposed, human beings absorb it from eating other animals.
The researchers adopted a vegan diet for a few days to clear their system (no animal-derived ingredients in foods or drugs or shampoo), and then drank a glass of "diluted pig mucus". Within days this invading meat molecule could be found oozing from their bodies, in their saliva, urine and hair clippings.
They speculate that this may why meat-eaters have such higher rates of cancer and heart disease compared to vegetarians. They acknowledge it could just be the saturated fat in meat and dairy, but maybe it is also because of the incorporation of this foreign substance (plants do not produce NeuGc). The researchers found it particularly interesting that vegetarian diets seem to improve rheumatoid arthritis. Maybe this reactive alien molecule also triggers autoimmune diseases like hepatitis and arthritis.
This article was published in the proceedings of the most prestigious scientific body in the United States. The researchers end their provocative article wondering what the long-term consequences might be of constantly challenging our immune systems in this way, and what the long-range implications are of having anti-Neu5Gc antibodies circulating throughout the bodies of meat-eaters and milk-drinkers. [Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 100 (2003): p.12045] |
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3 |
4 |
5 |
Dyspepsia / Poor Digestion |
-- |
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4 |
5 |
Elevated Homocysteine Levels |
-- |
1 |
2 |
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Endometriosis |
(Women only) A study in July, 2004 showed that the consumption of meats -- particularly beef and pork -- was associated with a significantly increased risk of developing endometriosis. |
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2 |
3 |
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Excess Protein Consumption |
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3 |
4 |
5 |
Iodine Requirement |
Iodine is typically undesirably low (about 50mcg per day compared to a recommended level of about 150mcg) in vegan diets unless supplements, iodine-rich seaweeds or foods containing such seaweeds are consumed. The low iodine levels in many plant foods reflect the low iodine levels in the soil. About half the iodine consumption of omnivores comes from dairy products.
In October of 2003, one of many articles appeared on iodine deficiency in vegetarians and vegans [Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism 47 (2003): p.183]. Quoting from the paper: "One fourth of the vegetarians and 80% of the vegans suffer from iodine deficiency..." Only 9% of the meat-eaters were deficient. The milk drinkers were protected in part because iodine-containing disinfectants are used to clean the milk processing equipment. None of the vegetarians and vegans were eating sea vegetables, and none were using iodized salt - they were all using "natural" sea salt, which has significantly less iodine. |
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4 |
5 |
Protein Deficiency |
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1 |
2 |
3 |
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Stomach Cancer |
An October, 2001 study by Yale School of Medicine researchers has found that a diet high in cholesterol, animal protein and vitamin B12 is linked to increased risk of a specific type of esophageal and stomach cancer, known as adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and gastric cardia, cases of which increased by 300% between the mid-1970s and 2000. |
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3 |
4 |
5 |
Vitamin B12 Requirement |
Vitamin B12 deficiency is the most common cause of megaloblastic anemia. Both long-term low dietary consumption and poor absorption are responsible for the final outcome of a B12 deficiency, namely megaloblastic anemia and neurological symptoms.
The authors of one study note that the vegan diet provides essentially no vitamin B12, and people following unsupplemented vegetarian diets may suffer from a deficit as well due to the lower levels in the diet. In addition, people consuming the vegan and vegetarian diets were in general also not getting adequate amounts of the essential amino acid methionine, due to the lower methionine content in plant proteins versus animal proteins. [Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism 2000;44: pp.135-8]
Serum vitamin B12 levels were 37% lower in the vegetarian group and 59% lower in the vegan group, compared with the omnivorous group. Serum B12 levels:In addition, B12 levels were low enough to be considered clinically deficient in:- 78% of the vegans
- 26% of the vegetarians
- 0% of the omnivores
Researchers compared homocysteine (Hcy) levels in 62 vegetarians, 32 vegans, and 59 people consuming an omnivorous diet. Compared to the omnivorous group, whose average Hcy levels were about 10.2 mmol/l, levels in the other groups were found to be:- More than 50% higher in the vegan group (15.8 mmol/l)
- About 30% higher in the vegetarian group (13.2 mmol/l)
Serum folate levels were within the normal range for all three groups, although they were significantly lower in omnivores. The authors conclude that "The results show that the mild hyperhomocysteinemia in alternative nutrition is a consequence of vitamin B12 deficiency." |
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Vitamin B12 Requirement |
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5 |
Vitamin D Requirement |
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GLOSSARY
Amino Acid (Amino Acids)
An organic acid containing nitrogen chemical building blocks that aid in the production of protein in the body. Eight of the twenty-two known amino acids are considered "essential," and must be obtained from dietary sources because the body can not synthesize them.
Anemia (Anemias, Anaemia)
A condition resulting from an unusually low number of red blood cells or too little hemoglobin in the red blood cells. The most common type is iron-deficiency anemia in which the red blood cells are reduced in size and number, and hemoglobin levels are low. Clinical symptoms include shortness of breath, lethargy and heart palpitations.
Antibody (Antibodies)
A type of serum protein (globulin) synthesized by white blood cells of the lymphoid type in response to an antigenic (foreign substance) stimulus. Antibodies are complex substances formed to neutralize or destroy these antigens in the blood. Antibody activity normally fights infection but can be damaging in allergies and a group of diseases that are called autoimmune diseases.
Arthritis (Arthritic)
Inflammation of a joint, usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and stiffness, and resulting from infection, trauma, degenerative changes, metabolic disturbances, or other causes. It occurs in various forms, such as bacterial arthritis, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is characterized by a gradual loss of cartilage and often an overgrowth of bone at the joints.
Autoimmune Disease (Autoimmune, Autoimmunity)
One of a large group of diseases in which the immune system turns against the body's own cells, tissues and organs, leading to chronic and often deadly conditions. Examples include multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, Bright's disease and diabetes.
Cancer
Refers to the various types of malignant neoplasms that contain cells growing out of control and invading adjacent tissues, which may metastasize to distant tissues.
Cholesterol
A waxy, fat-like substance manufactured in the liver and found in all tissues, it facilitates the transport and absorption of fatty acids. In foods, only animal products contain cholesterol. An excess of cholesterol in the bloodstream can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.
Chronic (Chronicity)
Usually referring to chronic illness: Illness extending over a long period of time.
Cobalamin (B12, B-12, Cobalamine, Vitamin B12)
Essential for normal growth and functioning of all body cells, especially those of bone marrow (red blood cell formation), gastrointestinal tract and nervous system, it prevents pernicious anemia and plays a crucial part in the reproduction of every cell of the body i.e. synthesis of genetic material (DNA).
Diabetes Mellitus (Diabetes, Diabetic, Diabetics)
A disease with increased blood glucose levels due to lack or ineffectiveness of insulin. Diabetes is found in two forms; insulin-dependent diabetes (juvenile-onset) and non-insulin-dependent (adult-onset). Symptoms include increased thirst; increased urination; weight loss in spite of increased appetite; fatigue; nausea; vomiting; frequent infections including bladder, vaginal, and skin; blurred vision; impotence in men; bad breath; cessation of menses; diminished skin fullness. Other symptoms include bleeding gums; ear noise/buzzing; diarrhea; depression; confusion.
Endometriosis
A condition whereby endometrial tissue builds up in parts of the uterus where it does not belong or areas outside of the uterus, forming 'ectopic implants'. Unlike the normal tissue lining the uterus, ectopic tissue has no place to shed in response to a decline in estrogen and progesterone. This results in debris and blood accumulating at the site of the implant leading to inflammation, scarring and adhesions that ultimately cause symptoms and complications. Symptoms typically occur in a cyclic fashion with menstrual periods, the most common being pelvic pain and cramping before and during periods; pain during intercourse; inability to conceive; fatigue; painful urination during periods; gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, and nausea.
Esophagus (Esophageal)
Commonly called the "food pipe", it is a narrow muscular tube, about nine and a half inches long, that begins below the tongue and ends at the stomach. It consists of an outer layer of fibrous tissue, a middle layer containing smoother muscle, and an inner membrane, which contains numerous tiny glands. It has muscular sphincters at both its upper and lower ends. The upper sphincter relaxes to allow passage of swallowed food that is then propelled down the esophagus into the stomach by the wave-like peristaltic contractions of the esophageal muscles. There is no protective mucosal layer, so problems can arise when digestive acids reflux into the esophagus from the stomach.
Gastric
Of, relating to, or associated with the stomach.
Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver usually resulting in jaundice (yellowing of the skin), loss of appetite, stomach discomfort, abnormal liver function, clay-colored stools, and dark urine. May be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, parasitic infestation, alcohol, drugs, toxins or transfusion of incompatible blood. Can be life-threatening. Severe hepatitis may lead to cirrhosis and chronic liver dysfunction.
Iodine
A essential mineral that is an integral part of the thyroid hormones, thyroxin and triiodothyronine which have important metabolic roles and govern basal metabolism. The best known iodine deficiency symptom is goiter. Other iodine deficiency problems are reduced vitality, hypothyroidism, inability to think clearly, low resistance to infection, loss of control of the muscles of the mouth resulting in mouth contortion and drooling, defective teeth, tendency to obesity and cretinism which is a congenital abnormal condition marked by physical stunting and mental deficiency.
Megaloblast (Megaloblastic, Megaloblasts)
An abnormally large nucleated red blood cell found especially in people having pernicious anemia or certain vitamin deficiencies.
Metabolism (Metabolic, Metabolize, Metabolizes, Metabolizing)
The chemical processes of living cells in which energy is produced in order to replace and repair tissues and maintain a healthy body. Responsible for the production of energy, biosynthesis of important substances, and degradation of various compounds. Also defined as the sum total of changes in an organism in order to achieve a balance (homeostasis): Catabolic burns up, anabolic stores and builds up; the sum of their work is metabolism.
Methionine
Essential amino acid. Dietary source of sulfur and methyl groups. Important for proper growth in infants, nitrogen balance in adults, healthy nails and skin and the synthesis of taurine, cysteine, phosphatidylcholine (lecithin), bile, carnitine and endorphins. It is an antioxidant nutrient and lipotropic agent which promotes the physiological utilization of fat.
Microgram (mcg, Micrograms, ug)
0.000001 or a millionth of a gram.
mol (mmol, nmol, pmol, umol)
Mole. The amount of a substance that contains as many atoms, molecules, ions, or other elementary units as the number of atoms in 0.012 kilograms of carbon 12. The number is 6.0225 × 10^23, or Avogadro's number. Also called gram molecule.
mmol: millimole: 0.001 or one thousandth of a mole.
umol: micromole: 0.000001 or one millionth of a mole.
nmol: nanomole: 0.000000001 or one billionth of a mole.
pmol: picomole: 0.000000000001 or one trillionth of a mole.
Mucus (Mucous)
The viscous, slippery substance that consists chiefly of mucin, water, cells, and inorganic salts and is secreted as a protective lubricant coating by cells and glands of the mucous membranes.
Protein (Proteins)
Compounds composed of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen present in the body and in foods that form complex combinations of amino acids. Protein is essential for life and is used for growth and repair. Foods that supply the body with protein include animal products, grains, legumes, and vegetables. Proteins from animal sources contain the essential amino acids. Proteins are changed to amino acids in the body.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
A long-term, destructive connective tissue disease that results from the body rejecting its own tissue cells (autoimmune reaction).
Saliva (Salivary)
The watery mixture of secretions from the salivary and oral mucous glands that lubricates chewed food and moistens the oral walls.
Saturated Fat (Saturated Fats)
A type of fat that is readily converted to LDL cholesterol and is thought to encourage production of arterial disease. Saturated fats tend to be hard at room temperature. Among saturated fats are animal fats, dairy products, and such vegetable oils as coconut and palm oils.
Serum
The cell-free fluid of the bloodstream. It appears in a test tube after the blood clots and is often used in expressions relating to the levels of certain compounds in the blood stream.
Stomach
A hollow, muscular, J-shaped pouch located in the upper part of the abdomen to the left of the midline. The upper end (fundus) is large and dome-shaped; the area just below the fundus is called the body of the stomach. The fundus and the body are often referred to as the cardiac portion of the stomach. The lower (pyloric) portion curves downward and to the right and includes the antrum and the pylorus. The function of the stomach is to begin digestion by physically breaking down food received from the esophagus. The tissues of the stomach wall are composed of three types of muscle fibers: circular, longitudinal and oblique. These fibers create structural elasticity and contractibility, both of which are needed for digestion. The stomach mucosa contains cells which secrete hydrochloric acid and this in turn activates the other gastric enzymes pepsin and rennin. To protect itself from being destroyed by its own enzymes, the stomach’s mucous lining must constantly regenerate itself.
Tumor (Tumors, Tumour, Tumours)
An abnormal growth of tissue resulting from uncontrolled, progressive multiplication of cells and serving no physiological function; a neoplasm. Literally, a swelling; in the past the term has been used in reference to any swelling of the body, no matter what the cause. However, the word is now being used almost exclusively to refer to a neoplastic mass, and the more general usage is being discarded.
Vegan (Veganism, Vegans)
A person who consumes no animal products of any kind. In other words, vegans do not consume meat, fish, fowl, dairy products, eggs, honey, or products containing gelatin or any other animal-derived ingredients such as whey powder or food colorings.
Vegetarian (Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarian, Vegetarianism, Vegetarians)
A person who consumes no meat, fish or fowl (chicken, turkey, etc.), but who may consume animal products such as dairy products (milk, cheese, butter, etc.), eggs or honey.
Last updated: Feb 28, 2008
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