Which nutrient is commonly emphasized for vegetarian diets to prevent deficiency?

• A. Vitamin D
• B. Vitamin B12
• C. Calcium
• D. Iron

Answer: (B)

Vitamin B12 is the nutrient most emphasized for vegetarians because it comes almost exclusively from animal-derived foods. Plants don’t reliably provide B12, so people who avoid animal products can become deficient without fortified foods or supplements. A lack of B12 can lead to fatigue and anemia and may also affect nerve function, so ensuring adequate B12 is a priority in vegetarian meal planning. Fortified foods (like certain plant milks, cereals, or nutritional yeast) or supplements are common ways to prevent deficiency. While other nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, and iron are important for vegetarians, B12 is the one at particular risk due to its dietary sources.