Everything you should know before turning vegan

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How do I know if I have any nutritional deficiencies?

Blood tests are a good way of confirming optimal internal organ function and screening for nutrient deficiencies and are easily accessible through your GP. The LDC Vegan Blood Profile includes:

  1. Full Blood Count (FBC)

This test provides detailed information about your red and white blood cells and can be used to detect conditions such as anaemia caused by iron and/or vitamin-B12 deficiency.

  1. Vitamin-B12, Folate

This test measures the levels of vitamin-B12 and Folate in your blood.

  1. Iron and Ferritin

This test measures the levels of iron and ferritin (a marker of the body’s iron stores).

  1. Omega 3 & 6

This test measures levels of the Omega 3 fats (DHA and EPA) and the ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 fats. Omega 3 fats are anti-inflammatory, whereas Omega 6 fats tend to be pro-inflammatory. A ratio of 2:1 is considered to be ideal.

  1. Lipids

This test measures levels of Cholesterol and it’s sub-fractions including HDL/ “beneficial” cholesterol, and LDL/ “harmful” cholesterol.

  1. HBA1C

The Glycosylated Haemoglobin blood test indicates how well blood sugar levels have been controlled in the preceding 6-8 weeks. The test can be used to identify individuals with diabetes or those at a higher risk of developing diabetes (“pre-diabetes”) due to frequently eating nutrient-poor, sugar-rich fast-food vegan options.

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