The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ position paper states that vegetarian and vegan diets can be nutritionally adequate and offer long-term health benefits when appropriately planned. These diets, which exclude meat, poultry, and seafood (vegetarian) or all animal products (vegan), have been shown to improve various health outcomes, including those related to cardiometabolic diseases. The paper was developed through a comprehensive review by expert panels and methodologists who used rigorous research methods to assess the health impacts of these dietary patterns. It identifies key issues such as ensuring diet quality, preventing nutrient deficiencies, and supporting vegetarian and vegan diets in different populations.
The paper also emphasizes the importance of working with registered dietitian nutritionists to create personalized, balanced, and culturally appropriate vegetarian and vegan eating plans. By carefully considering both macro and micronutrient needs, these diets can be both healthful and effective in disease management. The position paper concludes that, when well-planned, vegetarian and vegan diets are nutritionally adequate and can significantly benefit long-term health.
The paper was led by Sudha Raj, PhD, a professor at Syracuse University, and was published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
