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Health

Does veganism weaken bones?

Short answer

Not by definition. Risk rises when calcium, vitamin D, protein and mechanical loading (movement) are missing. A vegan with fortified plant milk, tofu and walking is not doomed to osteoporosis.

Aim for about 700–1000 mg calcium a day from fortified drinks, calcium-set tofu, tahini, brassicas and mineral-rich water. Vitamin D in a Polish winter practically requires a supplement for everyone.

Population studies are mixed because many older vegan cohorts ate little calcium. That is an argument for planning, not against veganism.

Sources

  1. The vegan diet — NHS
  2. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Vegetarian Diets

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