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Is Vegan Diet Good for Humans?

Vegan Challenge.

By Matjaz HvastijaPublished about a year ago 4 min read
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Is Vegan Diet Good for Humans?
Photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden on Unsplash

A vegan diet, which is free from animal products, has been found to have numerous health benefits for humans. One of the main reasons for this is that it is typically high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and low in saturated fat. This can lead to a lower risk of heart disease, obesity, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, a vegan diet is also associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and lower blood pressure.

Another benefit of a vegan diet is that it is typically high in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which are plant-based compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. These compounds are found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, which are staples of a vegan diet.

A vegan diet is also beneficial for the environment. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By not consuming animal products, vegans reduce their environmental footprint and also help to conserve resources such as water and land.

Furthermore, a vegan diet can also be beneficial for animal welfare. By not consuming animal products, vegans are not supporting the use of animals for food, which can be cruel and inhumane. This way the vegan lifestyle is more ethical and aligns with animal right.

By Frida Lannerström on Unsplash

In summary, the most important reason to choose a vegan diet is the environmental benefits and animal welfare. By reducing the demand for animal products, vegans can help to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and protect animals from cruel treatment. Additionally, a vegan diet can also be beneficial for human health.

There are several health benefits associated with a vegan diet:

Lower risk of heart disease: A vegan diet is typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol, which are major risk factors for heart disease. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of developing heart disease compared to non-vegans.

Lower risk of obesity: A vegan diet is typically high in fiber and low in calories, which can help to promote weight loss and prevent obesity.

Lower risk of certain types of cancer: A vegan diet is rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer and breast cancer.

Lower risk of type 2 diabetes: A vegan diet is typically low in fat and high in fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the development of type 2 diabetes.

Lower blood pressure: A vegan diet is typically low in sodium and high in potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension.

Increased longevity: Adopting a vegan diet may also be associated with increased longevity. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of dying from heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer.

By Matt Heaton on Unsplash

Vegan diet may also be beneficial for mental health, improve skin conditions, and improve kidney function.

It's worth noting that although a vegan diet has many health benefits, it's important to be mindful of nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin B12, which is mostly found in animal products. These deficiencies can be easily addressed by taking supplements or by consuming fortified foods.

In addition to the benefits mentioned previously, a vegan diet may also offer the following health benefits:

Improved digestion: A vegan diet is typically high in fiber, which can help to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

Better kidney function: A vegan diet is typically low in protein, which can help to reduce the workload on the kidneys and lower the risk of kidney disease.

Improved bone health: A vegan diet is typically high in calcium, magnesium, and other minerals that are important for bone health. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of osteoporosis and other bone-related conditions.

Improved immune function: A vegan diet is typically high in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.

Improved mental health: A vegan diet is typically rich in folate, which is important for the production of neurotransmitters that are involved in mood regulation. Studies have suggested that a vegan diet may be associated with a lower risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Reduced risk of chronic diseases: A vegan diet may also be associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and autoimmune conditions.

Improved athletic performance: Plant-based diets have been shown to improve endurance, strength and muscle recovery.

It's important to note that a vegan diet can provide all the essential nutrients the body needs when it's well-planned and balanced, and fortified if needed, to avoid deficiencies.

The best way to start eating a plant-based diet is described in a book here.

By Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

mental healthweight losslifestylehealthdiet
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About the Creator

Matjaz Hvastija

I make jewelry from silver and semi-precious stones for a living. I have been eating a meat-free diet for more than thirty years, and for the last six years strictly vegan with as little processed food as possible.

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