Which nutrient is essential for bone health and might be lacking in a vegetarian diet?

Calcium is indeed essential for bone health because it plays a crucial role in building and maintaining strong bones. It is a primary component of bone tissue, and adequate intake of calcium is essential to prevent bone diseases such as osteoporosis.

In many vegetarian diets, especially those that do not include dairy products, a significant source of calcium may be missing. While there are plant-based sources of calcium, such as leafy greens, fortified foods, and certain nuts and seeds, the bioavailability of calcium from these sources may not be as high as that from dairy products. Therefore, vegetarians need to be mindful of their calcium intake to ensure they meet their daily requirements and support optimal bone health.

The other nutrients listed, while important for health, do not play as direct a role in bone health as calcium does. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood; fiber aids in digestion and gut health; and vitamin C is vital for immune function and skin health. However, they are not specifically linked to bone integrity like calcium is.