Question

An individual following which of these eating plans is most likely to need to supplement his or her eating plan with vitamin B12?

a. A vegetarian eating plan
b. A gluten-free eating plan
c. A low-salt eating plan
d. A low-cholesterol eating plan

Answer 1

Individuals on a vegetarian eating plan are most likely to require a vitamin B12 supplement, as B12 is primarily found in animal products which vegetarians largely exclude from their diet. So the correct answer is Option A.

Step-by-step explanation:

An individual following a vegetarian eating plan is most likely to need to supplement his or her eating plan with vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Since vegetarians eliminate meat, and in some cases all animal products if they follow a vegan diet, they may not get adequate amounts of vitamin B12, which can lead to deficiency. Those with a vegetarian diet need to be especially conscious of their vitamin B12 intake and may benefit from a vitamin B12 supplement or fortified foods.

Fad diets and other specific eating plans, such as a gluten-free or low-salt diet, do not inherently exclude sources of vitamin B12 unless they also eliminate animal-based products. Similarly, a low-cholesterol eating plan can still include certain sources of vitamin B12. Therefore, of the options listed, vegetarians and especially vegans have the highest risk of vitamin B12 deficiency and should consider supplementation.