Is a Vegan Diet the Right Choice?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Eating a vegan diet is becoming a popular choice for a lot of people. In certain circles and areas of the country, it's the only way to live! While it certainly hasn't taken over the majority, it's growing in popularity and participants. But you may still be wondering: Is it really right for me? Is it even worth the effort? If you've been considering giving the vegan lifestyle a try, take a look at what you should consider before jumping in.
Benefits of Veganism
There are a lot of different opinions surrounding veganism. Some are good and others are bad, but there's no denying that there are some benefits to eating this diet. A few of the benefits might include:
Weight loss - When done well, veganism can help you lose weight. If you replace the animal product with fruits and vegetables, you're almost guaranteed to drop a few pounds.
It balances blood sugar - A lot of people find that their blood sugar evens out with a vegan diet. Why? Because your body isn't being bombarded with sugar. This only works if you replace your usual food with healthy alternatives, but it's a benefit to think about nonetheless.
Clear conscience - This isn't a physical health benefit, but many people feel better mentally and spiritually when they give up animal products. If this is an area of life that's important to you, it might be a driving factor in diet choice.
Problems That May Arise
Like anything in life, a vegan diet isn't all positive without any negatives. There are certainly some disadvantages, and they should be considered before partaking in the lifestyle. A few problems that you may face include:
Nutritional deficiency - It's not uncommon for vegans to experience a nutritional deficiency, especially in Vitamin B12. When you give up animal products, you have to make sure you're getting your nutrients elsewhere. You may also need supplements to ensure long-term health.
Lack of choices - Though some places are vegan-friendly, not everyone embraces the lifestyle. This may mean getting creative with ingredients and traveling far distances to find restaurants and stores with vegan foods.
What Should You Do?
When it comes to eating a healthy diet, the best answer is to choose foods that feel right for your body and lifestyle. There's not really an answer that is right for every person. If it feels good and makes your body healthier, go for it! If it doesn't, find a diet that makes you feel healthy. A vegan diet can work, but only if it's right for you. Choose deliberately and choose well, and you'll also be choosing better health for years to come.
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