Dietitian Course: Vegans and Bone Fractures: The Vitamin B12 Connection

VEGANS AND BONE FRACTURES: THE VITAMIN B12 CONNECTION

Evidence that a vegan diet is a risk factor for bone fractures is maintaining. This is in spite of the fact that vegans tend to have a better diet quality and higher intake of several foods and nutrients associated with better bone health, including fruits and vegetables, potassium and vitamin K. Researchers have attempted to explain the association between adherence to a vegan diet and higher risk of bone fractures by both dietary and non-dietary factors (e.g., lower intake of calcium, protein, lower BMI and hormonal disturbances associated with being underweight). Inadequate intake and status of vitamin B12 has not received the focus it deserves. Inadequate intake and status of this nutrient among vegans is well-documented. There are numerous mechanisms whereby inadequate B12 detrimentally impacts bone quantity and quality. The goal of this presentation is to review available data regarding the impact of B12 status and bone health.

Upon successful completion of this one-hour course, the participant should be able to:

Summarize available literature on bone fractures among vegans and compare their rates of fractures with individuals adhering to other diet types.

Review the prevalence of B12 deficiency and hyperhomocysteinemia among vegans.

Discuss available scientific findings regarding the impact of inadequate B12 on bone formation and resorption.

Make evidence-based recommendation regarding bone fracture prevention for vegans.

Live Event Date: Dec 10, 2020

Expiration Date: Dec 10, 2023

Performance Indicators/Learning Objectives: 4.2.6, 6.2.5, 6.3.8, 8.3.6

Target Audience: RDs, DTRs, Health Professionals

Number of Credits: 1.0

Level(s): 1, 2

Total Cost: $18 ($18.00 per credit)

About the Presenter: Roman Pawlak, Ph.D, RD

Associate Professor of Nutrition at East Carolina University. Authored: 'Vitamin B12. Combating the epidemic of deficiency' (published in English and Polish), 'Vegan/vegetarian mother and her baby' (published in English, Polish and Czech), 'I am the LORD who heals you' (published in English, Russian and Japanese), 'Forever young. Secrets of delaying aging and living disease free' (published in English and Polish), 'Healthy diet without secrets' (published in English and Polish), 'In defense of vegetarianism' (published in English and Polish), 'Diabetes. How to prevent it? How to cure it? How to prevent diabetes complications' (published in Polish), 'Diet – facts and myths' (published in Polish). Published in the best American and international nutrition journals, including, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, European Journal of Nutrition, Nutrition Reviews, American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Lectured in five continents, including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.