More than a diet, veganism is a lifestyle. Limiting it only to the concept of food is a very frequent mistake. Because opting for veganism goes beyond a simple style of eating. Being vegan means completely eliminate any product or food of animal origin. Not only when it comes to food, skin, silk or any material that comes from an animal is not part of the life of a vegan.
This is one of the most important differences between veganism and vegetarianism. In the case of the second, vegetarians follow a diet without meat or fish, although products of animal origin such as milk, eggs or honey are not excluded. On the contrary, people who follow a vegan diet, do not consume any type of product that has animal origin.
As in everything, this type of diet has its advantages, but also its drawbacks. And that is what we are going to detail below. Since, if you are considering the possibility of joining the many thousands of people who follow a vegan diet in the world, it is better to do it with all the information.
Benefits of the vegan diet
Eliminate animal products from the diet it has great health benefits. This is one of them.
- Lose weight in a healthy way. Since products of animal origin are by rule more caloric than those of vegetable origin.
- The risk of some types of cancer is reduced, such as stomach, colon, breast or prostate cancer.
- Keeping diabetes at bay and lower cholesterol levels.
- The likelihood of having migraines is reduced thanks to the consumption of foods of organic origin. Since they are foods free of substances that enhance the attacks of migraine and headaches.
- Healthier skin. Since the products of vegetable origin are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that protect the cells of the body. Thus preventing premature aging that is transferred to external organs such as the skin.
- Better control of intestinal transit, thanks to the consumption of foods rich in fiber.
Inconvenients to consider
A vegan diet can be very healthy, as long as all kinds of foods are consumed that provide the nutrients the body needs to function properly. This is the main disadvantage of a restrictive diet. Since, as nutrition specialists always indicate, a healthy diet must be varied and balanced. Thus, these are the main disadvantages of a vegan diet.
- Essential fatty acids are not consumed. Amino acids are fatty acids that the body does not synthesize naturally. These amino acids are present in the protein of meat and fish. Therefore, the contribution of vitamin B12 is very limited and it is necessary to take a vitamin supplement to avoid the risk of anemia.
- calcium deficiency. Although milk is not the food that contains the most calcium, it is one of the highest percentage. Therefore, the lack of dairy products and derivatives in the diet can lead to a calcium deficit. Make sure you eat foods rich in this mineral to avoid deficiencies.
- Not for everyone. In many cases, the vegan diet is not healthy, as is the case with children and pregnant women. In these stages where body structures are being formed, such as blood, muscles or skin, it is necessary to consume animals that provide nutrients that cannot be obtained from foods of plant origin.
If you are not within the risk groups and want to start a vegan diet, it is advisable that you speak with your doctor to follow a preventive control. It is possible that the lack of some nutrients makes you tired, fatigue and even mood swings. A complete analysis every so often will allow you to know if your health suffers or if the vegan diet really brings you benefits or disadvantages.