My best friend Katie decided to try Veganuary about 10 years ago, where she gave up meat, seafood, dairy, and other animal-derived ingredients for the month of January. This trial soon turned into a lifestyle choice, and she remains vegan to this day.
People choose to go vegan for reasons related to personal health and ethics. If you’re considering adopting a vegan lifestyle, here are some details on the pros and cons of veganism:
What is a vegan diet?
The vegan diet is plant-based and includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, beans, and nuts. It excludes all animal and animal-derived products.
What’s the difference between vegan and vegetarian?
Vegan and vegetarian diets both avoid meat, poultry, and fish. However, vegetarian diets may still include dairy and egg products, while vegan diets do not.
Health benefits of being vegan
A vegan diet has been linked to reduced risk of serious health conditions, including lower LDL cholesterol levels and weight loss. However, it may also lead to nutritional deficiencies if not planned properly.
Veganism and the environment
Studies suggest that a plant-based diet is better for the environment due to lower greenhouse gas emissions and resource usage compared to meat and dairy production.
Cost of a vegan diet
Research has found that vegan diets can be more affordable and sustainable compared to diets that include animal products and processed foods. However, specialty vegan foods and supplements can add to the overall cost.
Challenges of the vegan diet
Eating a healthy vegan diet can be time-consuming and may require careful planning, especially when dining out or shopping for specific vegan-friendly options. Nutritional deficiencies and access to vegan-friendly foods are among the challenges to consider.
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