The Vegan Lie

Veganism has gained immense popularity worldwide. While some individuals adopt a vegan lifestyle out of compassion for animals, many others are motivated by environmental and health concerns. However, it is important to examine the accuracy of these claims. Does going vegan truly have a significant impact on the planet, or are the effects exaggerated? Moreover, is a vegan diet healthy, or does the absence of animal proteins and nutrients pose risks to the body? While numerous claims have been made over the years, access to reliable studies has only recently become more readily available. Let's explore these questions in detail.

Firstly, let's address the environmental aspect of going vegan. The answer is quite straightforward: yes, going vegan is better for the environment. Multiple studies consistently reveal that a vegan diet, compared to a diet that includes meat or dairy products, utilizes less land, conserves more water, and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 70 to 80 per cent. Although not all vegan food options are equally environmentally friendly (such as almond milk requiring significant water resources), transitioning to a vegan or vegetarian diet significantly reduces personal ecological footprints. However, it's important to note that even reducing meat and dairy consumption can make a positive difference. So, while the matter isn't strictly black and white, a vegan diet undeniably contributes to a healthier planet and a more sustainable future.

Now, let's delve into the more complex subject of diet. Interestingly, historical evidence suggests that some of the earliest athletes, like the Gladiators, followed a plant-based diet rich in legumes, pulses, and grains, containing minimal animal protein. Only recently has research begun to explore whether a vegan diet can enhance athletic performance and overall long-term health. One frequently debated question is whether humans evolved as vegetarians or meat eaters. Although our sharp canine teeth might suggest carnivorous tendencies, these teeth likely evolved for purposes other than consuming meat, such as intimidation, competition, and defence. When we examine the diets of our primate relatives like chimps, orangutans, and gorillas, we find that they predominantly consume plant-based foods. This amusingly leads to the idea of chimps being hipster vegans. However, it's worth acknowledging that our species has a long history of consuming meat, dating back millions of years. Our ancestors turned to meat as a supplement when their environment changed, and plant availability decreased. While theories exist on how meat consumption influenced the human brain, the important takeaway is that we have been eating meat for a significant part of our evolutionary history.

Now, can we survive without meat altogether? Some may argue that it is impossible to obtain sufficient protein from a meatless diet, but this is not accurate. Whole grains, nuts, and beans provide ample protein, and protein deficiency is extremely rare, except in cases of insufficient calorie intake. However, a vegan diet lacks vitamin B12, a crucial nutrient required for various biological functions. B12 is absent in vegetables, including salads, but can be found in animal products like beef, pork, poultry, fish, and eggs. Many studies highlight the prevalence of B12 deficiencies among vegans and vegetarians, which can impact brain functioning, energy levels, and mood, and in extreme cases, lead to hallucinations. To address this B12 supplements are available, effectively eliminating the risk. Other nutrient deficiencies like iron and omega-3 fatty acids can also arise in vegan diets. However, fortified foods and supplements mitigate these concerns, reducing the risks associated with a vegan lifestyle.

Another area of concern is bone health. Calcium, essential for muscle and nerve function, as well as strong bones, is often promoted through the consumption of cow's milk. A 2020 study discovered that vegans have a higher risk of bone fractures compared to meat eaters. However, this pattern doesn't hold in countries where dairy consumption is not prevalent, indicating that factors beyond diet may influence bone strength. Calcium found in various vegetables like kale, bok choy, and broccoli, as well as fortified foods like orange juice and cereal. Nonetheless, even when accounting for calcium intake, vegans still exhibit a higher risk of bone fractures, suggesting the presence of unknown environmental or situational factors. Notably, these findings primarily apply to adults, as studies focus on children consistently show that milk-drinking kids experience fewer bone fractures.

Moving on to the overall health benefits, numerous studies indicate that vegans are less likely to develop high blood pressure, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. They also tend to live longer. Vegan diets help lower cholesterol levels and are rich in antioxidant phytonutrients and nitrates with anti-inflammatory effects. Consequently, some autoimmune diseases may be minimized by vegan diets. Venus Williams, who has Sjogren's syndrome, credits her vegan diet with reducing the extreme fatigue associated with her condition. Furthermore, research demonstrates that a well-planned vegan diet meets the nutritional requirements of endurance athletes, suggesting that it is at least as effective as an omnivorous diet. However, data supporting specific health claims and performance benefits of veganism is still limited, and ongoing studies aim to provide more conclusive evidence.

In conclusion, research suggests that a vegan diet offers undeniable environmental benefits. As an individual, embracing veganism is a simple step to minimize your ecological impact. Regarding health, potential setbacks can be mitigated through careful planning and supplementation, making a vegan diet a viable and healthy choice. Some evidence indicates that vegans enjoy improved overall health and well-being, with lower risks of certain diseases. However, it's important to note that the health-conscious nature of many vegans might influence these outcomes. It is equally possible to follow an unhealthy vegan diet due to the prevalence of junk and processed vegan foods. Ultimately, going vegan requires intentional effort and consideration for personal health and the environment.