Vegan - the healthier diet?
First the ethical implications: In Germany, everybody eats 1094 animals in his/her lifetime, other sources even speak of 150 animals each year. But rarely anybody wants to kill the animals himself/herself. And by now we know more than enough about the conditions how animals suffer while they are kept and killed. And we know that animals are sensitive beings - just as we are.
And there are also other good reasons for a plant-based whole-food diet:
- a greatly reduced number of microorganisms compared to meat, eggs and milk
- no growth hormones as in milk: cows have the same growth hormone as humans, so that dairy products promote extra growth in humans, also in tumors
- enough protein and in good quality, especially legumes, nuts and whole grains, and it is better absorbed - vegan top athletes are the living proof
- less contamination by poisonous substances: animals accumulate all kinds of poisons, antibiotics are added to their feed etc.
- greatly reduced burden on the environment: just the production, transport and distribution of all meat are responsible for almost half the CO2 production worldwide
- avoidance of degenerative diseases: a vegan diet means less diabetes, overweight, heart attacks, high blood pressure
For vegans a special tablet is available that contains the most essential vitamins.
And a final remark: It is better to reduce eating animal-based food than to do nothing at all. Eating half as much meat as before already has a great impact on health and environment!
Film recommendationsFood Inc. - a 2008 documentary, also as DVD
Forks over Knives (2011)
Internet recommendations
57 benefits of going vegan
20 Health Benefits of Going Vegan, According to Science (+6 Delicious Vegan Recipes)
Book recommendations
Joseph Keon: Whitewash: The Disturbing Truth About Cow's Milk and Your Health
Please read this important note on health subjects.