World Vegan Day: get your vitamin B12 on
Many vegans need look no further than their fridge or pantry for plant-based sources of that most essential of vitamins, B12
Today is World Vegan Day, and vegan runners around the world are celebrating the many benefits and joys of an animal-free lifestyle. And though some meat-eaters are fond of telling vegans they can’t possibly get enough nutrients from a vegan diet, there’s plenty of evidence to suggest otherwise.
Vitamin B12 is essential for cell metabolism, red blood cell and DNA production, cognition, memory and nervous-system function. B12 is only available naturally from animal sources, but vegans can easily get their recommended daily amount (2.4 mcg per day) by consuming B12-fortified foods or supplements. Here are some great sources of vitamin B12 for vegans, who may need to look no further than their fridge or pantry.
Fortified nut milks
Many almond, cashew, coconut, hemp, and soy milk products are fortified with vitamin B12. As with any product, always read the label to make sure you’re getting what you need.
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Fortified vegan breakfast cereals
We’re told that some mainstream grocery brand cereals are vegan, though they are not labelled as such, so finding an appropriate cereal may be easier (and less expensive) than you thought.
Nutritional yeast
Certain brands of nutritional yeast are fortified with vitamin B12, e.g. Red Star, and Bragg, so once again, read the label, or ask your health food store operator to make sure.
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Plant-based B12 supplements
Supplements come in various forms, including tablets, injections, sublingual nuggets, sprays, and powders (which you can sprinkle on food).
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Marmite
A staple of the British diet, Marmite is widely available in North America and though many North Americans find its strong, salty flavour and buttery texture to be an acquired taste, it can be eaten with almost anything–apples, toast, crackers, or even added to stews, which makes it a highly versatile way to supplement your diet.
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