The Unhealthy Vegan

What does being a vegan mean?

The vegan lifestyle is one of the latest eating trends, being adopted, in the world of nutrition. Whilst the number of vegans are increasing, the reasons for the switch aren’t all the same. The two main reasons, I have found for persons becoming vegan, are either for ethical (these are persons who are repulsed at the death of the animal as a source of food or otherwise) or health reasons (individuals wanting to correct existing health issues in a more natural way).

As we raise the question of ethics, the farming industry has taken a turn for the worst as animals are being slaughtered in the hundreds of thousands under the most inhumane conditions to meet the insatiable demands of the meat and fashion industries, for human consumption. With the increase of lifestyle diseases and food allergies, many are opting to go vegan either as a way of managing or alleviating the cause and effects.

Whatever the reason for the dietary alternative it is important to ensure your nutritional needs are being met. Are you getting the required nutrients from your food to sustain good health? The health benefits that accompany veganism, when done correctly, cannot be ignored. Several studies have revealed that the incidences of heart disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer are significantly less among vegans. It is however quite possible to develop micronutrient deficiencies which can disrupt the delicately balanced workings of the body if left unattended.

Is social media great for info?

Social media is awash with various groups providing “support” to individuals wanting to embark on the vegan journey. Although I am not a vegan, I purposely joined myself to some of these groups to listen in on the conversations being shared on the topic. It is amazing the misinformation being bandied about as sound nutritional advice. It is the young vegans I worry most about, as they need the most support which isn’t often given, because of carers who aren’t very aware of the ramifications.

It is in one of these groups I became acquainted with the term “The Oreo Vegan”. This particular vegan will eat anything, however much processed and high sugar present, as long as there are no animal products present. In case you hadn’t realised, oreos are considered vegan. I find it difficult to relate to not wanting to consume meat and dairy products while going in search of meat and dairy-like food substitutes. This is by no means a judgement of lifestyle but I am hoping it will cause thought and reflection as to what goes into your mouth even if for ethical reasons.

Every fruit and vegetable along with whole grains, all fall into the vegan category but that is not what being vegan is about. Why not choose to eat these foods as they not only add macronutrients but much needed micronutrients? Minimising D3, calcium, Magnesium and B12 nutrients, just to name a few, is crucial for bone protection, maintaining energy levels and a well-balanced mood on any given day. I once asked the question to a group on social media whether health was a top priority for a vegan and basically the answer was no. I have been corrected on several occasions by those of the vegan community that “veganism is the reduction in cruelty and harm to other sentient beings”.

Now what?

Sentient or not, we humans are at the top in the mammalian world but somewhere along the way we have lost our way, placing the well being of animals above ourselves hence the moral argument ensues. This may sound a bit harsh but I do believe in balance and certainly not trying to offend or diminish anyone’s beliefs but veganism may not be a diet as it extends way beyond the food on your plate. However, it can be used for dietary change and the betterment of health. Before you embark on any nutritional lifestyle change I would urge you to investigate, increase your knowledge on what is needed and be guided on the switch. As a nutritional therapist, I would strongly advise you seek support for any type of dietary switch that limits your food intake.

#foodchoices #socialmedia #veganism