Vegan diet pros and cons
Are you considering veganism? It has good points and bad points.
Everyone is trying to get back to health. Some people are doing it without meat. If you are considering the life of a vegan, here is some information to help you make an informed decision.
To many, not eating meat is too horrible to be believed. But, some people have sworn off meat for their health and the environment. Vegans are not just into their health, but also refuse to use products that come from animals at all. This can severely limit the types of foods that they can eat.
When you are on a plant-based food diet, it is important to be conscious of what you are eating and how many nutrients are you are ingesting on a daily basis.
Pros of a vegan diet
Too many of us worldwide are overweight. Part of the reason is consuming too many fats in various forms. While animal meat is rich in protein, it is also rich in saturated fats which can clog arteries and lead to other diseases.
One good thing to remember: Protein doesn't just come from animal sources. There are plant sources that can provide protein without all the fat. These include soy, plant sterols and nuts and legumes.
It has been shown that vegans who monitor their diet can reap the benefits of the meatless diet. They tend to have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels and healthier bodies. They are thinner than others but not painfully so or due to an eating disorder. They are choosing healthier sources of protein.
By eating more fruits and vegetables, some of which are classified as super foods, they increase their intake of many nutrients over people who eat meat. Eating cruciferous veggies like broccoli can decrease your chance of cancer and heart disease.
Cons of a vegan diet
At first glance, this seems like the perfect diet. But, everything has a few downsides to consider. For one, are vegans getting enough protein? Unless they carefully monitor what they eat, it is possible to come in below the mark. Protein is needed for strong muscle development and overall cellular function. When it is lacking, your body is not as strong as it can be.
Many vegans also eliminate dairy products and eggs from their diet. Eggs are a great source of protein that lowers food cravings. Dairy is also an excellent source of calcium. As we age, the body needs more and more calcium to build and maintain strong bones. When the body lacks calcium, it can rob it from the bones leading to osteoporosis and bone fractures.
Iron is an important mineral for women especially. It helps to build your blood and maintain your energy, especially when menstruating. Iron is found in significant quantities in eggs and meat. Vegans are at risk for iron deficiency.