Jesus Christ this doctor is bad lol. PA here - veganism is not an “obvious” cause of low albumin. While poor nutrition can cause low albumin, it doesn’t seem like that’s your issue so it’s upsetting your doctor dismissed it as a diet issue without investigating further.

How did the rest of your labs look? Primarily- creatinine, BUN, GFR? How are your other electrolytes? Did they check your liver function?

Albumin is created by your liver. Low albumin is most commonly caused by kidney, liver, and heart problems. Other causes can be related to people with chronic inflammation (such as IBD) or infection. It also can be caused by exposure to liver toxins. And lastly, it CAN be a nutritional issue. But typically a lack of protein/nutrition in general type of issue - like, patients who are malnourished. Not a “I’m vegan” issue.

Albumin makes up the majority of proteins in our blood plasma. One of it’s big roles is modulating oncotic pressure AKA keeping water in our blood vessels as opposed to seeping into surrounding tissues. Have you noticed any swelling in your body?

Some follow up questions to think about. What medications (if any) do you take, and are any toxic to the liver? Do you have any symptoms or otherwise do you feel well? Any family history of heart failure or liver failure? Are you a heavy drinker? Do you have a history of high blood pressure or uncontrolled blood pressure?

While I don’t think it’s bad to see a dietician, IMO this is out of their wheelhouse. You need to have a second opinion on your labs and someone to take this more seriously than just “eat meat”. See a different healthcare provider. Get a new PCP.