Ron Chapple Studios/Dreamstime.com
It’s a long-standing belief that diets without meat or dairy cannot possibly provide all the nutrients your body needs. However, as more people decide to reduce their meat intake for health reasons, these myths about vegetarian based diets are getting debunked. But can a purely vegan diet be healthy?
According to a 2008 study conducted by Vegetarian Times, 7.3 million Americans are vegetarians and out of those, 1 million are vegans. Vegans, like vegetarians, follow a meat-less diet, however, vegans consume no products derived from animals. That means in addition to not eating meat, poultry and fish, they also do not eat eggs or dairy products. Protein is very easily obtained in a vegan diet through a variety of soy-based foods, beans, legumes, nuts and leafy greens.
Many vegetarians and vegans avoid using products made from animal sources such as fur or leather and cosmetic products tested on animals. Some soaps are still made from animal fat and some toothpastes contain calcium extracted from animal bones. Those would definitely be on the “don’t eat” list for a vegan.
You may choose a vegan diet for a variety of reasons: environmental, ethical, political. But whatever the catalyst, a healthier diet is sure to be the result. Vegan diets are lower in total fat, saturated fat and contain virtually no cholesterol. Eating only plant-based foods provides higher levels of fiber, magnesium and antioxidants, thereby reducing the probability of many diseases. Studies show that vegetarians in general live longer and have healthier hearts.
For more information on the vegan diet, here are a few sites:
Comments
The scientific information about the benefits of a vegan diet and the hazards of a meat and dairy diet are well known in the medical and scientific community.
The American Dietetic Association says at their website:
"It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life-cycle including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood and adolescence and for athletes."
For lots more good info on vegetarianism and veganism, and loads of links including to orgs, recipes, and more, please visit Eco-Eating at brook.com/veg
Good article! And thanks for the stats. It's good to know there are a million vegans in the U.S. We're trying to get up to that number here in Canada.
Cheers!
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!