Hi acti, I've been vegan for 5 ish years and was vegetarian for a couple years before that. I've always been on the thin side. I have gone to a few nutritionists, but every time I go, they try to force animal products on me. I have had really bad reactions to dairy due to stomach issues, but they never seem to listen to me when I say that. I'm not sure how to convey to them that animal products are not an option for me. I'm tired of them calling me anemic because I'm pale and won't eat animals.
Unfortunately, nutritionists can be as anti-vegan as anyone else in the general public, and if they’re not even listening to you then it’s a good indication that this is just clinical bias rearing it’s head. There is no vitamin, nutrient or mineral you cannot get on a plant-based diet - what you need to understand is precisely what it is you’re missing, whether it’s just fat, proteins, or specific vitamins like iron. Meat and dairy are not vitamins, and the nutrients contained in them are accessible elsewhere. My advice would be to reach out to nutritionists in your area by phone or email before you arrange an appointment. Tell them you’re looking for someone knowledgeable and experienced about plant-based diet, since you want to improve your health while maintaining a vegan lifestyle. Anyone who isn’t willing to work with you on that is not worth your time. If you can find a specialist that would be amazing, if not, just someone willing to listen to your requirements and actually respect them.
