People who are interested in changing their diet to a meatless one should know there is a little planning involved before they take the plunge.

In the February issue of the Mayo Clinic Women’s HealthSource, an article offers advice concerning nutritional supplements that should be included in a vegetarian diet.

While most people may know the diet will consist of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans, they may not realize certain nutrients, which can only be found in meat products, should be incorporated.

Protein, calcium, iron and zinc can all be found in various foods such as dairy and soy products. However, the vitamin B12 is found exclusively in animals and should be taken in supplemental form for vegetarians to have optimal health.

Because vegetarian diets are often lower in calories than typical American diets, most people on the diet tend to be thinner when compared to non-vegetarians. However, recent studies have shown vegetarians can be overweight if they eat too much of processed foods.

Recently, vegetables were in the news thanks to a banned Super Bowl commercial from PETA, which showcased scantily-clad women, vegetables, and the headline Studies Show Vegetarians Have Better Sex.

Unfortunately, no such study exists.