A shift towards veganism...

I've just recently finished my paper for the completion of my bachelors in human biology. In it, I made the case that we should all shift to a more vegetarian style diet because of the associated health benefits. I searched through several studies done on people who follow vegetarian diets versus those who eat meat based diets around the globe. The results were always similar: people who follow a meat based diet have higher rates of obesity, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, elevated cholesterol levels, diabetes, higher BMI and higher incidences of some cancers and degenerative diseases; while people who follow a vegetarian diet have decreased incidences of these diseases.

Over the past two years I have shifted my own diet from the traditional meat based diet to a primarily vegan diet (no meat or dairy). I have done this for many reasons which I will explain. Now, when I say ‘meat based diet’, I am referring to the diet that centers around meat. This means that most meals have a large portion of meat with a side. I have learned that we should make vegetables the center of the meal with small side portions of meat and/or grains. (This is the suggestion of Dr. Seaman who authors deflame.com)

Why the shift to veganism? Firstly, the research shows that meat based diets are associated with many of the diseases plaguing Americans. Dr. Ornish has even demonstrated that a diet restricting meat can stop or in some cases reverse heart disease. I am honestly not completely against the eating of meat, but I am scared of the meat being sold and served to me. The animals that are to become our food are being pumped with hormones, antibiotics, pesticides and fed highly inflammatory grain diets and living in stressful environments. All of these factors are transferred to us when we eat them. The purpose of eating is to obtain nutrients, not toxins. The next logical question most people may ask is; how do you get your protein? The average American actually gets too much protein in their diet (75-160g/day). This puts extra stress on the liver and kidneys. The recommendation of 46-56 grams per day for the average adult is even higher than really needed. I have seen research showing that 35-50g of protein per day is adequate for most adults. This can be met by eating a handful of nuts, a cup of soy milk and vegetables and grains throughout the day, or if you choose one portion of meat will satisfy this. Yes, vegetables and grains have small amounts of protein. So getting protein for a vegan is no problem. The only problem is getting vitamin B12, because this vitamin is only found in animal products. Personally, I take a B12 supplement and eat a portion of meat every few weeks for my insurance.

I am not suggesting that everyone become vegan, but that our diets shift towards less meat and dairy and more vegetables, fruit and nuts. I think that this switch in dietary mindset will help prevent many lifestyle illnesses. So eat your fruit and veggies today!