Veganism can be uncompromising, especially if you’ve been eating meat. So let’s dive deeply into veganism and see if it is good for you.
Aside from health and moral benefits, veganism is another specialized diet, and although it could be suitable for some, it might also not work for others.
Choosing to become a vegan is a huge commitment that not many people are willing to make. However, it does have its benefits, but making the switch can be tricky.
If you’re planning to go vegan, but you want to make sure veganism is something that would benefit you, you’ve come to the right place.
Becoming vegan the wrong way can lead to some side effects. Before committing or trying it out, ensure you understand the truth about veganism.
What are the advantages of veganism?
Veganism has many benefits as long as it is done correctly. Aside from just choosing vegetables, it is essential to ensure your body still gets the nutrition it needs.
1. Rich in nutrients
Veganism helps your body intake a lot of the nutrients it needs. A well-balanced vegan diet makes your body consume more potassium, magnesium, antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and E.
2. Reduces the risk of various diseases
Studies have shown that going vegan helps reduce the risk of multiple conditions. Due to the phytochemicals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids consumed, vegans are reportedly less likely to have cancer and other diseases.
3. Body weight loss
Since vegan foods often contain low calories and cholesterol, they can help with weight loss. Another reason why veganism can help with weight loss is that snacking is technically healthier with vegetables compared to most fatty protein products.
4. Blood sugar control
The vegan lifestyle is reportedly good for helping people avoid type 2 diabetes by improving blood sugar control.
What are the disadvantages of veganism?
Veganism isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Like everything, the diet also comes with its disadvantages.
1. Gut problems
Since legumes are one of the most popular protein sources for vegans, the high content of lectins and phytates could increase the possibility of a leaky gut or increase intestinal permeability.
2. Hormonal disruptions
By eating certain things like soy, which is high in phytoestrogens. This could cause disruptions or hormonal changes every once in a while.
3. Anemia
Iron is essential for the body; if you are iron-deficient, you risk anemia. Iron can easily be found in meat, but when it comes to vegetables, if not correctly supplemented, it can lead to an iron deficiency.
4. Risk of depression
Due to the low consumption of omega-3 fatty acids, often found in fish, and the high consumption of omega-6 fatty acids, found in nuts, vegans could have a higher risk of depression. While algae-based solutions exist, omega-3 fatty acids are harder to find in plants than in meat.
5. Risk of eating disorders
The most significant risk of going vegan is developing an eating disorder. If not done gradually and correctly, you could be more susceptible to developing an eating disorder. Once you shock your body into a new diet, this could result in your system to haywire and creating a bad eating habit.
Should you go vegan?
Like most diets, veganism can be beneficial and harmful for some. When deciding to go vegan, consider whether the upside is more significant than the downside and whether you are willing to make that switch.
Also, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before switching to veganism.
