Twin brothers adopt vegan vs meat diet for 6 months; the results might shock you | Health News

For years, conventional wisdom — echoed countless nutrition experts — has suggested that most vitamin supplements may be unnecessary for those who eat a balanced diet. But a recent experiment involving genetically identical twins Ross and Hugo Turner is turning that assumption on its head.Ross and Hugo, 36, adventurers from Chrow, Devon, are no strangers to using their identical DNA to explore the impact of lifestyle choices on health. In their latest experiment, documented over six months, both brothers followed nearly identical diets and exercise routines. But there was one major difference: their supplements.
Ross took traditional animal-derived vitamin tablets, while Hugo switched to a fully vegan supplement routine, relying on plant-based nutrients such as algae-derived Omega-3 oils rather than the standard fish-based ones.
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What did the results show?
the end of the six-month period, blood test results showed that Hugo had significantly higher levels of several essential nutrients in his bloodstream than Ross, according to The Daily Mail. These included micronutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids, B12, iron, and zinc — all nutrients often assumed to be lacking in vegan diets.

The findings build on a previous 2020 experiment where the Turner twins followed two different diets — vegan and omnivorous — and tracked how their bodies responded. That study also suggested that the vegan diet offered faster fat loss and potential cardiovascular benefits.
What do the experts say?
According to nutrition and metabolic health experts, the results aren’t surprising, but deserve deeper context.
“Vegan supplements, particularly those that use bioavailable sources like algae or fermented nutrients, can absolutely fill the gaps left plant-based diets,” says Dr Kiran Soni, Head, Department of Nutrition & Health, Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida. “We often assume that plant-based equals weaker absorption, but that’s not always the case. In fact, with high-quality formulations, the body can absorb and utilise these nutrients just as well — sometimes better.”
The vegan Omega-3 Hugo used, for example, was extracted from algae — the source fish consume to make their fatty acids. skipping the middleman (fish), the nutrient can be delivered in a purer, more sustainable form.Story continues below this ad
Should non-vegans consider vegan supplements, too?
Absolutely — and not just for ethical or environmental reasons, says Dr Soni. Even those who consume meat regularly might have inconsent dietary patterns, experience absorption issues, or live with chronic stress — all factors that affect nutrient retention.
While meat-eaters typically get enough Vitamin B12, heme iron, and zinc, vegan supplements can provide a cleaner, more sustainable alternative. “The goal isn’t about choosing one over the other blindly,” says the expert. “It’s about what your blood work says, and what your body needs.”
“A vegan diet, when well-planned, offers excellent health outcomes — like reduced risk of obesity, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes,” says Dr Soni. “But similarly, a balanced omnivorous diet with lean meats, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables can also be incredibly healthy.”
The Turner twins’ experiments show us something more valuable than picking sides: thoughtful planning and personalisation matter more than diet labels. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or omnivore — your nutrition choices should be based on your unique needs, not trends or assumptions.Story continues below this ad
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.