A Health Overview

Are there any health benefits to eating a vegan diet?

When planned and executed correctly, a vegan diet can be noticeably healthier than the typical American diet. In fact, the American Diabetic Association released a report in 1996 that said that vegetarian and vegan diets can greatly reduce a person's risk of contractin

 

g heart disease, colon and lung cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension, obesity, and many other health problems.

- While cows' milk has perfect levels of fat and protein to nourish young calves, these levels are pretty high for human consumption.

- Since eggs are higher in cholesterol than other food, many believe them to be a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease.

- Vegan foods, like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans, contain low amounts of fat and no cholesterol; they contain a great deal of fiber and nutrients.

- Those who do not eat a vegan or vegetarian diet often ask me if I am getting enough protein with my diet since I'm not eating meat. I always respond that yes, I am getting enough protein; I get most of my protein through legumes (like beans and tofu) and grains (such as rice, corn, and whole wheat products).

- Vegans can get calcium from broccoli, kale, collard greens, tofu, fortified juices, and soymilk.

- Vegans can get iron from chickpeas, spinach, pinto beans, and soy products.

- Vegans can obtain enough B12 vitamins from fortified foods or supplements.