A vegan diet can be very healthful. In fact, many people initially stop eating animal products to benefit their health.
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| Photo courtesy of USDA ARS. |
“It is the position of the American
Dietetic Association that appropriately planned
vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian
or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally
adequate, and may provide health benefits in
the prevention and treatment of certain diseases.
Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate
for individuals during all stages of the life
cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy,
childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes.… An
evidence-based review showed that vegetarian
diets can be nutritionally adequate in pregnancy
and result in positive maternal and infant
health outcomes. The results of an evidencebased
review showed that a vegetarian diet is associated
with a lower risk of death from ischemic heart
disease. Vegetarians also appear to have lower
low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels,
lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension
and type 2 diabetes than nonvegetarians. Furthermore,
vegetarians tend to have a lower body mass
index and lower overall cancer rates.”
“Position
of the American Dietetic Association: Vegetarian
Diets,”
Journal of the American
Dietetic Association, July 2009 |
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Simply avoiding animal products, however, will not ensure optimal health. Like everyone, vegans should eat a well-balanced diet. Protein, vitamins B12 and D, omega-3 fats, calcium, and iodine are important.
Fortunately, there are plenty of nutritious and convenient options for vegans today, including various high-protein meat substitutes and fortified dairy alternatives.
Please see VeganHealth.org for more detailed information on health and nutrition, including “Staying Healthy on Plant-Based Diets”—a detailed article with recommendations based on the latest nutrition research. Contact
us for a free copy of our Guide to Cruelty-Free Eating, which contains an abridged version of the article. And, to keep up to date with the latest nutrition news and receive notifications of updates to VeganHealth.org, please visit JackNorrisRD.com and subscribe to Jack’s blog.
Photo courtesy of Linda Bower.
What to Eat? 
