Some Frequently Asked Food Questions
Q: What are my nutrition needs if I'm vegetarian?
A: Vegetarians choose to avoid animal products like fish, red meat and poultry. Some vegetarians also use soy or rice milk instead of cow's milk. The food pyramid supplies a wide range of vegetarian choices in every food group, but non-meat eaters need to focus on getting adequate calcium, iron, zinc and B12. For more info check out the gURL guide to vegetarianism or the Vegetarian Resource Group.
Q: I'm lactose intolerant and don't drink milk! How else can I get calcium, etc?
A: Choose fortified soy or rice milk; or look for lactose-free milk. Many people who are lactose intolerant can eat small amounts of cheese or yogurt without problems.
Q: Should I take a multivitamin?
A: Your nutrient needs are so high that it's tough to get everything you need from food. Taking a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement with iron is a good way to hedge your bets, but it doesn't take the place of choosing healthy foods as often as you can.
Q: Do birth control pills affect my nutrition needs?
A: Depending on the type of birth control, you'll need extra calcium, iron and/or B6. A daily multivitamin plus choosing milk and yogurt daily will help meet those needs.
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