Vopr Pitan. 1998 ; (3): 3-7.

[Data from an expedition to study a Siberian vegan settlement]

Medkova IL, Manchuk VT, Mosiakina LI, Polivanova TV, Lundina TA, Koroleva-Munts LI.

Health status, the way of life and nourishment of 84 vegans in Siberian village (Krasnoyarsk region) were studied and compared with those of 26 meat-eaters. The investigation included work with a questionnaire, clinico-diagnostic and laboratory research. It was shown that a vegetarian diet improves the serum lipid spectrum (cholesterol, LPLD, cholesterol of LPNP, atherogenic coefficient), normalizes weight and cardiovascular system. The vegans had normal levels of vitamin B12 and serum Fe but the calcium level in this group was lowered as compared with the control group. The pathology of internals (nephroptosis, lithic diathesis, tendency to lithogenesis) was observed. Apparently, the high serum Zn levels found in both groups aren't directly caused by the diet but by climate and geographic factors.