Vegan Health Benefits for People and the Planet

or some, it’s the goal of a healthier lifestyle. For others, it’s because they want to take better care of animals and the planet. For still others, it’s because they bit into a chicken leg and experienced a sudden rush of vegetarian feeling.

Whatever the cause, more and more people are going vegan. Estimates from the Vegetarian Resource Group and Time/CNN put the number of Americans pursuing vegan health from 1.4 to 4%, and the Times Online reported 250,000 vegans in Britain.

You could describe vegans as vegetarians with a really strong sense of commitment. Whereas many vegetarians will eat dairy products and eggs (and some even eat fish and seafood), vegans eat no animal or dairy products at all.

To a dedicated carnivore, the term “vegan health,” might sound like an oxymoron, but vegan health benefits are real, and documented. In 2009, the American Dietetic Association, hardly a band of crazed tree-huggers, went on record affirming that appropriately planned vegan diets are healthy, nutritious and may help prevent and treat certain diseases.

To be specific, reduced risk of death from ischemic heart disease, lower levels of “bad cholesterol”, lower blood pressure and reduced risk of hypertension and Type 2 diabetes are just some of the vegan health benefits supported by scientific research.

But note that “appropriately planned” phrase. Vegans need to make sure they’re getting enough B-12, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids and other key nutrients.

For the committed vegan, health issues aren’t the only issue. Many vegans don’t eat animal products for ethical reasons, because they believe it’s wrong to use and kill animals.

Environmental concerns also inspire many vegans. According to a United Nations report, the livestock sector (which includes birds raised for meat, egg-laying hens and other farmed animals) is a contributor to climate change, increased water use and pollution, deforestation and reduced biodiversity.

But doesn’t vegan food taste like brown rice and boredom? Think again! How about a nice pear tart, some scrumptious Chinese food, or even Cracker Jacks? Vegan health food can be as delicious as it is good for you and the planet.