Vegetarian

A vegetarian or plant-based diet can provide a wide range of nutrients, but some vitamins and minerals are found primarily or exclusively in animal-derived foods. Over time, insufficient intake of these nutrients may lead to gradual changes in blood levels that do not always produce obvious symptoms right away. This panel checks several markers that are commonly discussed in the context of plant-based nutrition.

This test may be relevant for:

• People who follow a vegetarian, vegan, or predominantly plant-based diet
• Those who have recently transitioned to a plant-based diet and want to check their nutrient levels
• Anyone who takes supplements and wants to verify whether their levels are within expected ranges
• People who experience symptoms such as fatigue, hair changes, or difficulty concentrating and wonder whether nutrition may play a role

This panel includes:

• CBC (Complete Blood Count): measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets
• Ferritin: reflects the body's iron stores; plant-based iron (non-heme) is less readily absorbed than animal-based iron
• Vitamin B12: found almost exclusively in animal products; involved in nerve function and red blood cell production
• Vitamin D: obtained through sunlight exposure and a limited number of foods; plays a role in bone health and immune function
• Zinc: involved in immune function, wound healing, and cell division; plant sources contain phytates that may reduce absorption
• Magnesium: involved in muscle function, nerve signalling, and energy production

Low ferritin may suggest that iron stores are declining, even if hemoglobin remains within range. Vitamin B12 deficiency can develop slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms until levels are quite low. Vitamin D is commonly low in the general population, and people with limited sun exposure or dietary intake may be at higher risk. Zinc and magnesium levels can reflect dietary adequacy for these minerals.

The results can help you evaluate whether your current diet and supplementation are meeting your needs, and provide a basis for discussion with a healthcare provider or nutritionist.

This test uses a blood sample collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). With over 750 partner locations across the Netherlands, you can select a convenient location. A trained phlebotomist performs the blood draw, and results are typically available within a few working days.

This test may be useful when:

• You follow a plant-based diet and want to verify your nutrient levels
• You have been vegetarian or vegan for a while and have not checked these markers recently
• You take supplements and want to see whether your blood levels are within expected ranges
• You are considering a dietary change and want a baseline measurement

Each marker is displayed with your value and the reference range. Values within range generally suggest adequate levels for that nutrient. Values below the range may indicate that dietary intake or supplementation could be adjusted. Values above the range are less common but can occur with high-dose supplementation.

Your report includes explanations for each marker. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider or dietitian who can offer guidance tailored to your dietary pattern.

Fasting is not strictly required but may improve the consistency of some results. If you choose to fast, 8 to 12 hours is recommended. Avoid zinc supplements for at least 24 hours before the test, as they can temporarily affect zinc levels in the blood.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. The report presents your values with reference ranges and clear explanations. If any nutrient level falls outside the expected range, this is indicated in your report. We recommend discussing the findings with a healthcare provider or dietitian for personalised dietary or supplementation advice.