Vegan Nutrition with Dina Aronson, M.S. R.D.

Dina Aronson, MS, RD is a vegan dietitian whose specialties include chronic disease prevention, vegetarian/vegan nutrition, and lifestyle management. She is the founder and director of VeganRD.com, a nutrition consulting company. Active in many vegetarian nutrition organizations, Dina was the recipient of the American Dietetic Association's Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award in 2002.

See full index of questions

Is it true that your body becomes unable to digest meat if uneaten for a long enough period? -Gina

Article continues below

Dear Gina,

I am not sure how this rumor started, but no, it is not true that the body becomes unable to digest meat after any period of exclusion from the diet. Meat is still a food, made up of proteins and fats, and the healthy body still possesses enzymes to break down those proteins and fats. That said, some vegetarians don’t feel very well after reintroducing meat, but this is not the same as the inability to digest it.

Disclaimer: The advice given here is for eductional purposes only. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.

Sponsors: