The vegan lifestyle is increasingly popular in the West. It is now touted everywhere as the solution to virtually every problem, from wellness to protecting coral reefs. But is veganism really that healthy for humans? Or is it a fad of the moment? The reality is that when it comes to diet, everyone should feel free to eat how they want, without someone else trying to impose their views on them.
It is true that certain dietary adjustments are capable of improving our health, and even in a noticeable way. But who lives longer between vegans and omnivores? It is on this question that almost all the diatribes between the two opposing factions are based. But unfortunately, even science does not seem able to give us an answer.
Veganism is a way of life adopted by those who choose a life based on respect for all forms of life: vegans do not eat meat, fish or derivatives (milk, eggs, honey) and buy products made in respect of the environment. However, making this choice does not mean consuming only fruits, vegetables, legumes and cereals. We see it every day when shopping, we can now find almost any food in a vegan version, including foods such as, for example, sushi or hamburgers. So it may be more a question of the type of food eaten than the sources from which it comes.
It seems that many vegans stay healthy and live longer than omnivores, but it probably depends on many lifestyle choices, not just giving up meat: eating whole grains, fruits and vegetables, drinking the right amount of water and exercising are just some of the good habits known to promote better health. And they can be adopted by both vegans and omnivores.
A study published in the JAMA International Medicine Journal found that “vegans are 9% more likely to live longer than omnivores,” but another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition claims that ” although veganism contributes to the prevention of chronic problems , it has not yet been shown to lead to a longer life.
It is therefore a question of being able to maintain a balanced lifestyle. “The key piece of the puzzle of any diet is to have good variety in the foods you eat ,” says Brooke Jacob, registered dietitian. “That way, you make sure you’re getting a variety of nutrients to meet your needs. A vegan diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts will help you maintain optimal nutrition. It’s also a good idea to consider adding appropriate dietary supplements to your diet and making sure you meet your needs, depending on the foods you choose not to eat.”
Let everyone choose according to their tastes and conscience, in short, without losing sight of the fact that the primary goal is to feel good.
Source used:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4191896/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4691673/