Contrary to most definitions, vegan diets are defined by what they do not contain! Consequently it is not possible to say that a vegan diet is bad or good, for it depends entirely on what each person eating with these proscriptions chooses to consume.

There are some advantages shared by all vegan diets, and these pertain to not ingesting animal fats, animal proteins, and the toxic load (inherent and environmental) present in all flesh — that increases as you feed higher up the food chain.

In leaving animal items off the plate a void is created which calls for substitutions. Some fill their stomachs by increasing the amounts of the food left on the plate. If the quality of that food is poor it’s a bad bargain and likely missing a food group. Many folk would be left with white bread, French fries and ketchup, washed down with a soda.

A wholesome vegan diet consists of daily servings of fresh fruit, raw and conservatively cooked vegetables; cooked whole grains (bread, brown rice, etc.), and pulses (peas, beans, lentils); some nuts and seeds, and a little seaweed. Green leafy vegetables are rich in vital nutrients; few eat enough.

Convenience foods can make vegan living easier, but their overuse may increase the intake of salt, sugar and refined grains above healthful limits.

Dr. Michael Klaper’s Vegan Health Study provides a yardstick by which to gauge our health status as a group. Now is a good time for each of us to evaluate our eating habits, pay attention to B12 levels/intake, make sure we exercise, enjoy fresh air and sunshine, and get enough sleep. Furthermore, we can find out what condition our bodies are in through some diagnostic tests which may reveal troubles in the making. A summary of the study can be found here.

Most people we know who adopt a vegan diet are very happy to find their health improves. Those who are satisfied with their new lifestyle and do well stay vegan; others drop away. Beyond social and vegan-food-not-readily-available factors, failed attempts may be due to poor practice or physical limitations.

We believe that most people who want to eat vegan can achieve a personal best fitness level. Learn how by reading, consulting vegan doctors and dieticians (online, at conferences), attending cooking classes, and sharing vegan meals and recipes with friends. Experiment a bit to see what works for you. Take care; live the best you know how.