The subject of vegan diets is covered in Lawrence's 1994 text, pp.301-2. There is a risk of decreased absorption of minerals such as iron, zinc and calcium due to increased dietary phytates and fiber. Careful use of complementary proteins is stressed to avoid deficiencies in essential proteins. Vitamin D is a problem in dark-skinned mothers in climates with little sunshine (we've seen cases of rickets in New Jersey among babies of Black Muslim mothers who eat vegetarian diets without milk products, nurse exclusively for 2 years, and cover themselves and their babies, receiving minimal sun exposure). The other potential deficiency in this diet includes Vitamin B12 and riboflavin. Hope this helps. Alicia. [log in to unmask]