Drinking plant-based milk? It could cause serious problems in your body

Researchers from the University of Surrey warn that replacing dairy products with plant-based alternatives may lead to deficiencies in essential micronutrients, particularly iodine, calcium, and vitamins B2 and B12. This is especially concerning for young people and women, as many teenage girls in the UK already have inadequate iodine intake. The study indicates that even partial substitution of dairy can significantly increase the risk of iodine deficiency. While many plant-based products contain added calcium and B12, few are fortified with iodine or B2. The findings suggest that a shift to a fully plant-based diet could result in severe iodine deficiency among adolescents. Adding iodine to these alternatives could help mitigate this issue.