Why shouldn't you go vegan?

Veganism: A Divisive Topic

When it comes to being or becoming vegan, opinions are sharply divided.

In forums and on social media, it's often just a matter of YES or NO!

Vegans and non-vegans often clash—at least, that’s how I usually experience it!

But why is this the case?

Ethics and Morality: Many vegans choose their lifestyle for ethical reasons, aiming to avoid animal suffering.

For them, consuming animal products is a moral issue, while non-vegans often see things differently or have other priorities.

Dining table

Health Beliefs: There are varying opinions on what constitutes a healthy diet.

Many vegans believe that a plant-based diet is healthier, while non-vegans often think that animal products provide essential nutrients.

Environmental Concerns: Veganism is often associated with sustainability and environmental protection. Some non-vegans might feel defensive if their eating habits are portrayed as harmful to the environment.

Cultural and Social Traditions: Food is an important part of many cultures and traditions. Rejecting certain foods can be seen by non-vegans as a criticism of their cultural practices.

Identity and Lifestyle: For many vegans, their diet is a key part of their identity.

Discussions can become emotional because they may be seen as an attack on one's lifestyle or identity.

Misunderstandings and Prejudices: Often, conflicts arise from misunderstandings or stereotypes about the other group. This can lead to tensions and defensive attitudes.

Overall, the debates are so intense because they touch on deeply held beliefs and identities that are central to people’s lives.

I still remember the time when the "militant vegan" was posting extreme videos on TikTok (Germany), confronting people on the street.

But is that really the solution?

In my opinion, such aggressive approaches and accusations only create more resistance.

As mentioned earlier, diet is also a personal matter, closely tied to one's identity.

If we directly attack people’s lifestyles (no matter which side is doing the attacking), we will only encounter resistance!

Respect and Tolerance: Both sides should respect each other’s beliefs and lifestyles, even if they don’t share them. It's important to recognize that diet is a personal choice based on individual values, experiences, and beliefs.

Open Dialogue: A respectful and open exchange can help clear up misunderstandings.

Both sides should be willing to listen and understand each other's perspectives without judgment or proselytizing.

Highlight Common Values: There are often overlaps in values, such as a desire for a healthy diet or environmental protection. By focusing on these shared goals, both sides can see they have more in common than they might think.

Flexibility and Compromise: A certain degree of flexibility can help reduce tensions. For example, when sharing meals, choosing dishes that are acceptable to both sides or offering alternative options can help.

Education and Awareness: Many misunderstandings stem from a lack of knowledge. Providing factual information about the benefits and challenges of different diets can help break down prejudices.

Vegan dining table

Positivity and Leading by Example: Instead of lecturing others, people can set a positive example. Vegans can show the benefits of their lifestyle without criticizing others, and non-vegans can explain their choices without devaluing other perspectives.

Dialogue is Key:

As with many things I believe in, I think personal, open exchange is important.

Without lecturing, but with education.

After all, there was a time when you probably didn’t know about the suffering caused by the meat and dairy industries.

Here are some facts about veganism that might not end in heated debates:

1. World Hunger:

It's scientifically proven that as the global population grows, we can't all eat as much meat.

To save the world and end hunger, we need to use our grain resources wisely.

In 2022, 400 million hectares of land—equivalent to the combined areas of India, Germany, and France—were used just for feed production.

We could feed the entire world population (7.5 billion people) for a year with the amount of grain if everyone stopped eating meat.

2. Health Benefits:

Cardiovascular Health: A vegan diet is often high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, and low in saturated fats. Studies show that a vegan diet is linked to a lower risk of heart disease. (Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2019)

Blood Pressure: Vegans generally have lower blood pressure. A review has shown that a plant-based diet can lead to significantly lower blood pressure. (Source: JAMA Internal Medicine, 2014)

3. Environmental Friendliness:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A study found that reducing the consumption of animal products can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions.

(Source: Environmental Research Letters, 2018)

Water Use: Producing plant-based foods typically requires less water than producing animal products. For example, producing 1 kg of beef requires about 15,000 liters of water, while 1 kg of vegetables requires about 322 liters. (Source: Water Resources Research, 2013)

4. Animal Welfare:

Animal Welfare: A plant-based diet avoids supporting industries that keep animals in cramped cages and stressful conditions. Studies show that industrial animal farming is associated with various ethical and health issues. (Source: Journal of Animal Science, 2020)

Sad cow

5. Nutritional Needs:

Nutrient Supply: A well-planned vegan diet can provide all necessary nutrients. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics confirms that a plant-based diet is suitable for all life stages and does not lead to deficiencies if well-planned.

(Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2016)

6. Disease Prevention:

Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest that a plant-based diet is associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal cancer. This is often attributed to the high content of fiber and phytochemicals in plant foods. (Source: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, 2018)

7. Energy and Vitality:

Energy Levels: Many people report higher energy levels and better overall well-being after switching to a vegan diet, which may be due to the high content of vitamins and minerals in plant foods. (Source: Nutrients, 2020)

And finally, I want to say something:

Becoming vegan is a process, one that you might have gone through as well.

Some people make the change quickly, while others take longer.

We are all different individuals with different views and lifestyles.

How unfortunate would it be if your "militant approach" turned people away from veganism?

Bake or cook for your non-vegan friends and family.

Be a good example! Veganism is about peace—with yourself and with your environment. That’s how we can truly reach others.

If you’d like more exchange and want to learn more about topics like Mindful Living, the Starch Solution, the Blue Zone Diet, and walking barefoot, I’d be happy if you join my newsletter (promise, no spam, and always personal).

Best, Lisa