Hello! I am new to this forum, thought I'd post about a few wee concerns I have.
I have been vegan for a few months now, completely cut out meat and milk back in December and all animal products in about February. I cut out animal products sort of unintentionally - I got really into raw food and was feeling absolutely amazing, so happy, high energy etc, and from there I began learning about the negative aspects of consuming animal products, thus I automatically cut them out. In essence I sort of ended up realizing, "Oh, I suppose I'm vegan now".
However, aside from feeling so damn good when eating high amounts of raw foods, smoothies, juices etc., in about January/February or so I began noticing cognitive problems. Poor concentration/focus (I ran through a few red lights, something I have never ever done before), blanking/spacing out, dizziness.
Now, for my whole life I have always been one to get distracted easily/focus problems, though I have never been so acutely aware of how my brain is functioning now. I've always been a bit (or more than a bit) of a hypochondriac so the fact that I am noticing these things so intensely is really, really scaring me.
I had a blood test a few weeks ago and was told I am iron deficient. I have been taking 35mg of ferrous gluconate 2-3 times a day since then. I also take b12 (methylcobalamin) supplements.
Basically I am finding myself lately in a state of anxiety, almost panic attacks, nearly all day, just worrying and thinking about if I am ok or if there is any harm being done to me (my brain). I do not want to eat animal products as I disagree with it, and I don't see anything in dairy that would benefit me. But meat though, perhaps?
I just don't know and I don't know what to do. I'm extremely passionate about health, I will be studying holistic nutrition in the coming months, I eat very very well - lots of fruit, leafy greens, legumes, grains, herbs, nuts, seeds, some sprouts, fortified beverages & supplements as well!! Why am I having cognitive issues?? This is when I question if I am just being a worry wart and just over-analyzing my every move.
As of now, I think these "symptoms" are, not 100% but possibly, getting worse - memory issues and some confusion. Perhaps it's just that it takes time to replenish the iron stores and I'm maybe just simply still iron deficient?
Maybe I'm just freaking out and I just need reassurance that veganism is a-ok.
*** I figured out that I think I am just overtired and exhausted from working so incredibly much all the time non-stop with very few days off. I think that is what's been affecting my mental performance!! Anyways... I've been trying to figure out how to delete this post but I don't know how??
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