Vegan Diet Or Dupixent: Which Is The Better Option?

Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects a significant portion of children and adults. While there is no cure for eczema, individuals often turn to lifestyle interventions, such as dietary changes, to manage their symptoms. This article explores two approaches: Dupixent, a prescription medication, and a vegan diet, which excludes all animal products.

Dupixent side effects and weight gain

Dupixent (generic name: dupilumab) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe eczema, asthma, and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. It can also be used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with eosinophilia in adults. While Dupixent is not associated with weight gain in the product information, several studies and user testimonials have reported weight gain as a side effect of the medication.

A published case series comparing 12 people prescribed Dupixent to 8 people prescribed methotrexate reported significant weight gain in the Dupixent group, with an average weight gain of 6.1 kg over one year. The amount of weight gained ranged from 0.1 kg to 18.0 kg. In contrast, the group prescribed methotrexate experienced no weight gain or a loss of weight. The authors of the study concluded that weight gain was an unexpected and unexplained side effect of Dupixent and recommended that physicians monitor patients for weight gain during treatment.

Additionally, several users on Reddit have reported experiencing weight gain while taking Dupixent, with some gaining substantial amounts of weight despite no changes in their diet or exercise habits. However, it is important to note that not everyone experiences weight gain while taking Dupixent, and there may be other factors contributing to weight gain, such as aging, stress, or lifestyle changes.

Other common side effects of Dupixent include injection site reactions, eye-related issues such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis, oral herpes (cold sores), and throat pain. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the benefits and risks of taking Dupixent and to report any side effects that occur during treatment.

Vegan diet health benefits

A vegan diet can provide a range of health benefits, from aiding weight loss to reducing the risk of certain diseases.

Firstly, a vegan diet can help with weight loss. Many studies suggest that vegans tend to have lower body mass indexes (BMIs) than non-vegans. A small study found that people eating a low-fat, high-fibre vegan diet lost more weight than those eating a conventional low-fat diet. Participants following a vegan diet lost an average of 13 lbs (6 kg) over 16 weeks, while those following a Mediterranean diet saw no weight loss.

Secondly, a vegan diet may lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Vegans tend to have lower blood sugar levels and higher insulin sensitivity. A 2006 study reported that a vegan diet lowers blood sugar levels in people with diabetes more than the recommended diet from the American Diabetes Association (ADA). In one 2009 study, 43% of participants following a vegan diet were able to reduce their dosage of blood sugar-lowering medication, compared with only 26% of participants who followed an ADA-recommended diet.

Thirdly, a vegan diet may lower the risk of certain cancers. Vegans generally eat more legumes, fruits, and vegetables than non-vegans. A 2017 study found that vegans may benefit from a 15% lower risk of developing cancer. Eating legumes regularly may reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by 9-18%. According to the National Cancer Institute, eating more plant-based foods reduces your risk of several types of cancer, including stomach, lung, mouth, and throat cancers.

Fourthly, a vegan diet is linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Observational studies comparing vegans with vegetarians and non-vegetarians report that vegans may benefit from up to a 75% lower risk of developing high blood pressure. Several randomised controlled studies report that vegan diets are much more effective at reducing blood sugar, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and total cholesterol levels than the diets they are compared with.

Finally, a vegan diet can reduce pain from arthritis. A few studies have reported that a vegan diet has positive effects on people with different types of arthritis. One small study found that those on the vegan diet reported higher energy levels and better general functioning than those who didn't change their diet.

Vegan diet risks

Veganism is a lifestyle that involves refraining from consuming or using any products derived from animals. While veganism has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiometabolic diseases, it has also been associated with adverse health outcomes, such as nervous, skeletal, and immune system impairments, hematological disorders, and mental health problems. Here are some of the risks associated with a vegan diet:

Nutritional Deficiencies

Vegans may be at risk of nutritional deficiencies due to the exclusion of animal-based foods. Vitamin B12, for example, is only available in animal foods, and vegans are at a higher risk of developing a deficiency in this vital nutrient. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurologic and hematologic problems and increase the risk of certain cancers. Similarly, vegans may have lower intakes of zinc, calcium, and iodine, which are essential for immune function, bone health, and thyroid health, respectively.

Increased Risk of Stroke

A study published in the medical journal The BMJ found that vegetarians may have a 20% higher risk of stroke compared to meat eaters. However, the overall risk was small, and the findings may have been influenced by other factors, such as family history or genetic background. More research is needed to confirm these findings and understand the potential mechanisms involved.

Anemia

Iron-deficient anemia is a common nutritional deficiency, and both vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk. While plant foods contain non-heme iron, it is less absorbable by the body. Anemia can lead to serious symptoms, including fatigue, and is especially important for women of childbearing age to consider.

Depression

Vegans may be at a higher risk of depression due to lower intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which are primarily found in fish and fish oils. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain health, and deficiencies have been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Algae-based sources of omega-3s are an option for vegans, but they can be expensive and hard to find.

Bone Fractures

Vegans may be at an increased risk of bone fractures due to lower intakes of calcium and vitamin D. Calcium is primarily found in dairy products, and while it can be obtained from plant sources, absorption may be inhibited by the presence of phytates and oxalates. Vitamin D is primarily obtained through sun exposure, but it is also found in fatty fish, eggs, and dairy, which are excluded from a vegan diet.

Eating Disorders

Some studies suggest that restrictive diets, such as veganism, may trigger or exacerbate eating disorders. Orthorexia, an eating disorder characterized by an obsession with healthy eating, has been found to be more prevalent among vegans and vegetarians. It is important to note that a well-planned vegan diet can meet nutritional needs, but care must be taken to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients.

Vegetarian vs vegan

Vegetarian and vegan diets are plant-based and exclude meat and poultry. However, the main difference is that vegans do not consume any animal-based products, including dairy, eggs, and seafood.

Vegetarian Diet

Vegetarianism generally means that no meat, poultry, or seafood is consumed. However, eggs and dairy are typically included in a vegetarian diet. There are three types of vegetarians:

• Lacto-vegetarians: Consume dairy products in their diet
• Lacto-ovo-vegetarians: Consume dairy products and eggs
• Ovo-vegetarians: Eat eggs as their only animal protein

Vegan Diet

Veganism is considered the strictest form of vegetarianism and excludes all animal foods, including meat, seafood, dairy, and eggs. Some vegans also avoid ingredients derived from animals, such as honey.

There are several subtypes of veganism:

• Frugal or frugivorous: A diet consisting mostly of fruits and a small portion of nuts, seeds, and select vegetables
• Raw food: A diet where foods are eaten raw

Veganism is often more than just a diet; it is a lifestyle choice that involves avoiding the use of any materials derived from animals, such as leather.

Health Benefits of Vegetarian and Vegan Diets

Both vegetarian and vegan diets can have impressive health benefits. They tend to be low in saturated fat and high in fiber, which can help protect against or reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases and heart disease. Additionally, these diets are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy plant compounds.

However, it is important to ensure that these diets are well-planned to meet all essential nutrient requirements. Vegetarian and vegan diets may be lacking in certain nutrients, such as protein, calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamins B2, B3, B12, and D. As a result, it is recommended to consult a registered dietitian to ensure a well-rounded, balanced diet and consider taking supplements for any missing nutrients.

Who Can Follow Vegetarian and Vegan Diets?

Vegetarian and vegan diets can be suitable for everyone, including children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, special care must be taken to ensure that all essential nutrients are obtained during these life stages. For example, pregnant and breastfeeding women should ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals for their child's healthy development. Similarly, children following these diets should consume a wide variety of foods to meet their energy and nutrient needs for growth and development.

Vegan diet during pregnancy

A vegan diet is one that excludes all animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. It is often rich in whole foods like vegetables and legumes and is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and hypertension. However, some people worry that a vegan diet may cause nutrient deficiencies, which could be dangerous for pregnant women and their babies. This article will discuss the safety of a vegan diet during pregnancy, the nutrients to focus on, and provide tips for a healthy vegan pregnancy.

Benefits of a Vegan Diet During Pregnancy

A well-planned vegan diet can offer benefits to both mother and baby. These include:

• Reduced risk of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication associated with high blood pressure and organ damage.
• Reduced risk of gestational diabetes, as vegan diets are often high in fiber and low in saturated fat.
• Reduced risk of some neural tube defects and brain tumors, as vegan diets tend to be low in nitrates, the main source being cured meat and smoked fish.

Risks of a Vegan Diet During Pregnancy

A vegan diet during pregnancy must be well-planned to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Deficiencies in protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, DHA, iron, zinc, and iodine can increase the risk of low birth weight, birth defects, and other complications.

Tips for a Healthy Vegan Diet During Pregnancy

To ensure a healthy vegan pregnancy, it is important to:

• Eat a variety of minimally processed foods, including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Limit vegetable fats, especially trans fats and tropical oils, and focus on omega-3 fats.
• Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements.
• Supplement with vitamin B12, as it is primarily found in animal sources.
• Consult a dietitian to ensure you are meeting all your nutritional needs.

A well-planned vegan diet can be safe and healthy during pregnancy, offering benefits such as reduced risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. However, careful planning is necessary to avoid nutrient deficiencies, which can harm both mother and baby. It is important to consult a dietitian to ensure a well-balanced vegan diet and consider taking supplements for vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3 fats, and other nutrients as needed.

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