Which nutrient is crucial for vegans to monitor due to common deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is crucial for vegans to monitor due to the potential for deficiency. This vitamin is primarily found in animal products, making it difficult for individuals following a vegan diet to obtain adequate amounts through dietary sources alone. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in the formation of red blood cells, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Since a deficiency can lead to serious health issues such as anemia and neurological problems, it is essential for vegans to consider supplementation or consume fortified foods to ensure they receive sufficient levels of this nutrient.

While calcium, lysine, and iron are also important nutrients for vegans to be aware of, the specific concern around vitamin B12 deficiency is particularly significant given its unique sourcing and the critical roles it plays in health. For instance, although calcium can be obtained from plant-based sources, vegans need to ensure they're consuming enough to meet their needs. Iron is also present in plant foods but exists in non-heme form, which is less readily absorbed compared to heme iron from animal sources. Lysine, though important, is typically less of a concern for vegans as it can be found in adequate amounts in certain plant foods such as legumes and quinoa. Thus, among these nutrients, vitamin B12 stands out as one