Nutrition Today | 2019
Micronutrient Needs of Athletes Eating Plant-Based Diets
Abstract
In a TV ad, NBA star Kyrie Irving dazzles with his athleticism on the basketball court, as a live orchestra plays courtside. When asked by another player ‘‘How’d you do that?’’ Irving looks directly into the camera and says, ‘‘A plant-based diet.’’ Yes, athletes eating plant-based diets are that popular. Many of today’s top athletes are adopting plant-based eating styles ranging from eating smaller portions of meat to a strict vegan diet for a multitude of reasons. NFL quarterback Tom Brady reportedly eats a mostly vegan diet but eats lean meats ‘‘every now and then.’’ He says eating plant-based meals has helped him stay at the top of his game. Champion tennis player Venus Williams says she became a vegan to help manage an autoimmune disorder. When I had NFL linebacker David Carter on my SiriusXM Doctor Radio show, he said he became a vegan for health as well as ethical reasons. Unfortunately, there is not a lot of research yet examining the nutritional needs of athletes who follow plant-based diets. This article explores currently available research examining the micronutrient needs of plant-based athletes (PBAs) following a vegan diet along with some practical recommendations for meeting these needs.