Comparison of bioelectrical impedance – derived phase angle in vegan and omnivorous exercisers

Phase angle (PhA) is a parameter obtained through electrical bioimpedance that can be used to indicate health, nutritional, and functional status in different populations. Vegans tend to have a higher percentage of body fat and lower muscle mass than omnivores, but it is unknown whether the PhA is different between these two groups. This study aims to compare the PhA and body composition of physically active omnivorous and vegan individuals. This cross-sectional study involved 30 exercisers (12 men and 18 women), divided into a vegan group (VG; n = 15) and an omnivore group (OG; n = 15), matched for sex (6 men and 9 women in each group), age, height, and body mass (maximum difference of 5%). Body composition was measured using a scale, a stadiometer, and octopolar bioimpedance. Right arm PhA was lower in vegans (p = 0.036; d = 0.805), omnivores consumed more protein/kg of body weight daily (p = 0.026; d = 0.856), and vegans consumed more fiber daily (p < 0.001; d = -1.610). There were no significant differences in other dietary intake and body composition parameters between vegans and omnivores. Similarities in PhA and body composition were observed between vegan and omnivorous individuals, but with lower right arm PhA in the VG.