What could I do for my diet to feel better?

Question

I've been Vegan now for a little over two months, and for the past month or so I have had an almost constant dizzy feeling. My head just feels...fuzzy. I got my blood tested just before becoming a Vegan and it said my Iron and B12 levels were normal and since I became Vegan I've been taking a multi-vitamin daily, half in the morning, half in the evening.(As per the suggestion of my doctor) Also, I have not been exercising, at all. I have a naturally good physique, but due to my head I just haven't had the drive or energy to exercise.
Could my Iron or B12 levels drop, even while taking a multi vitamin? 
Granted, the first month I was eating very healthy, and the past month (due to the Christmas holidays) my eating habits were far from good, I was not eating very many fruits or vegetables. Mostly living off of popcorn, cupcakes, chips, salsa..all homemade, but still..not exactly a balanced diet. Could one month of poor eating really throw my system off so much? I've heard you won't notice a B12 drop for (potentially) years?

I will be going to the doctor, but my appointment isn't for another month so I was just curious if there were any tips or opinions people could give me on what Vitamin or Mineral I may be lacking? Can you still be lacking even when taking a multi-vitamin?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Maybe you're simply not getting enough calories- your symptoms could be explained by that. It is an easy pitfall for new vegans as most of the food is not calorie dense, you might feel full without eating enough calories. Also, it sounds like you're not getting enough protein- mix some black beans in with your salsa and try adding some hummus to the mix. It sounds like you already know your diet is unbalanced so I wont harp on that. Also, there are several types of vegan protein shakes, including soy, hemp and pea protein that might really benefit you.

Try adding a handful of nuts between meals for a nutritionally dense burst.

Anonymous · Answer

Try getting back to healthy eating. Your body is probably going crazy due to all the salt and sugar you are suddenly having. 
Look at it this way.. You are used to walking along (eating healthy) Then suddenly you are forced to run along everywhere (eating poorly) You would soon be very worn out because you havent had a break from it.

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What could I do for my diet to feel better?

2 Answers