Vegetarian dietary pattern is associated with increased consumption of fiber, calcium and potassium in adult respondents of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003–2008

Abstract

Vegetarian diets have been associated with several health benefits. However, there are some concerns around the nutritional adequacy of vegetarian diets. The present study was designed to evaluate the differences in nutrient intakes between vegetarian (VDP) and non‐vegetarian dietary patterns (NVDP) in US adult population (> 19 yrs; N = 11,888) using the data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2003–2008. Respondents who did not report the consumption of meat, poultry or fish on the NHANES dietary recall for either of the two survey days were categorized as having a vegetarian dietary pattern. Mean nutrient intakes were adjusted for Age, Gender, Ethnicity, Poverty Income Ratio and kCal. Total energy intake was approximately. 16% lower in VDP when compared to NVDP. Mean intakes of fiber, vitamins A, C, and E, total folate, calcium, magnesium, and potassium were higher for VDP than for NVDP. Although intake of sodium was lower in the VDP, it was still higher than the current guideline. Dairy and fruit consumption was higher among the vegetarians. Contrary to the common belief, total vegetable intake was not different between the two groups. The Healthy Eating Index, a measure of diet quality, was not different for people following a vegetarian dietary pattern compared to non‐vegetarians.