Athletes tend to have more specific needs when it comes to dietary supplements because of their enhanced physical activity.
They require a higher level of nutrients that other people wouldn’t need to keep their energy levels high, their bodies healthy, and to continue making gains.
With the unique challenge of finding supplements that are not derived from animal products, many vegan athletes opt for vegan dietary supplements from brands like Pure Encapsulations.
It means that often the only supplement available to vegan athletes is a plant-based one, and that’s where the challenge begins. Allergies to certain foods, difficulties in absorbing nutrients from plants, and other factors mean that plant-based dietary supplements may not be enough for vegan athletes, but it doesn’t have to be this way!
What is a Vegan Dietary Supplement?
According to market reports, the number of vegans in the UK increased by approximately four times between 2014 and 2019.
A vegan dietary supplement follows the same guidelines as vegetarian and other plant-based dietary supplements, which means certain ingredients can’t be included. The most common of these ingredients include:
- Hormones from animals
- Fish oils
- Gelatin
- Animal by-products from slaughterhouses
Many vegan dietary supplements are labeled as suitable for people with allergies or sensitivities to certain food products. Some common allergens found in supplements include soy, dairy, gluten, and nuts.
When looking for a vegan dietary supplement from brands like Pure Encapsulations, it is vital to check the label to see if any of these ingredients are included. You can pick a supplementary product that does not have these ingredients.
What to Look for in a Vegan Dietary Supplement?
There are some things that you should look out for in dietary supplements, whichever type you may be using. Here’s a list of essential points to consider:
The Source of The Ingredients
Vitamins and minerals commonly used in vegan diets include calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin C, and potassium.
When choosing a dietary supplement, it is important to make sure that you choose one with high-quality ingredients suitable for vegans. Along with this, it is also vital to consider the source of the ingredients.
The Strength of The Product
When thinking about the strength and dosage of your dietary supplement, it is essential to consider how much of the product you will need each day to get all of the nutrients that your body needs.
Even for a vegan athlete, taking a hefty dose of one vitamin or mineral may not be suitable for health and could even cause adverse effects if taken in excess.
Other Uses
Such plant-based supplements are not just for vegans. Many of the supplements that people take daily are simply vitamins and minerals. Since there are no animal-derived ingredients in vegan dietary supplements, it means that they will be suitable for anyone who wants to take them, not just vegan athletes.
When choosing a vegan dietary supplement, it is essential to make sure that you find one that meets all of the above criteria. Doing so will help you ensure that you are getting the best possible product for your needs.
