What is Vegan and Why it May be Worth Considering
By Virginia Laird
Like many others, I am constantly searching for the right change to make to improve my health, drop some pounds, and help my entire family get fit. As a firm believer that dieting does not work, rather it is a short term fix, I am always reading up on a variety of lifestyle changes. Before committing to any major change it is vital to make certain the changes fit into your lifestyle. It can take a great deal of research to get to the point you feel comfortable and confident setting out on your journey. One of the diets getting a lot of steam currently is the vegan format. There are a variety of reason for choosing this diet, including:
- Save the animals
- It is a low-fat diet
- It can encourage good overall health and wellness
The big question remains: Is the vegan diet right for you? To better answer this question it is wise to know what being a vegan entails.
What Does It Mean to Be Vegan?
One who lives a vegan lifestyle abstains from consuming any animal products. This includes all dairy, eggs, cheese, meat. Many vegans also eat all organic products in an effort to keep from putting any unnecessary chemicals into the body.
Is Living the Vegan Lifestyle Difficult?
If you are one who struggles with willpower and self-restraint (as it pertains to food choices) then the initial change from "anything goes" to vegan can prove to be a struggle. Research suggests the best way to be successful with any drastic lifestyle change is to have friends (or family) commit to the change along with you.
Why Should You Give the Vegan Diet a Try?
Many who choose to live the vegan lifestyle may do so out of respect to the animals. Others choose to in an effort to improve their health. There is little secret to the fact that meat (especially red) has a good bit of fat, which can be hard on the arteries and organs. Choosing to be vegan can help eliminate these fats from the body. Some research suggests that a vegan lifestyle can help defeat diabetes as well as other diseases.
Although, this choice may not be easy, it has merit, and may be worth considering. Give it a try for a month or maybe two. While doing so, keep an eye on your weight, blood pressure, and other health issues. You just may notice you have made some small improvements.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Georgetown, Tex.