Vegans usually avoid eating all sorts of animal products including meat, eggs and even dairy products. Not only that, they even don’t have food which has got an animal source like honey or gelatine. Veganism is all about making the apt food choices and most people choose to be on vegan diet for ethical, health and other environmental reasons. Strict vegans usually don’t use or consume any products which are made from animals and this may even include fur, leather, silk or wool. They even avoid using certain cosmetics or soaps.
Veganism is definitely a path to better health
A well-planned vegan diet will offer you a sense of fulfillment of your beliefs and this may give you the enjoyment to live for a longer time and also lead a healthier life. The vegan diet can offer health benefits like:
- Low blood pressure
- Low cholesterol levels
- Low consumption of saturated fats
- More nutritional value
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancers and heart disease
- Healthier body weights
Nutrients you need to focus on when following a vegan diet
When you’re following a vegan lifestyle, you need to pay attention as very soon you may find it tough to get enough minerals and vitamins that are found in animal products. You also have to consume balanced foods to avert health risks. Make sure you focus on getting the following nutrients while on diet.
- Iron: Iron always plays a key role in producing red blood cells and these help in carrying oxygen throughout your body. Broccoli, beans, raising, wheat and tofu are few good sources of iron and iron-fortified cereals can also become a good source. Iron that is found in non-meat sources can often be tough to digest and hence it is better to eat foods that are rich in Vitamin C.
- Protein: Protein is a vital nutrient for every part of our body as it keeps our bones, skin, muscles and organs healthy. Amino acids are considered to be building blocks of protein and your body always needs to break down food.
- Calcium: Calcium builds strong bones and also prevents breakage of bones. Dark leafy greens, soyabeans, broccoli and kale usually contain calcium. You can even take calcium supplements too.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for maintaining bone health and it helps your body in absorbing calcium and promoting the growth of bones. You need to get 10 mins of exposure under the sun 3-4 times in a week as that is a good source of Vitamin D.
Before you opt for a vegan diet, you can see here to know about the vegan diet plan reviews. Make sure you opt for it only when you think you can continue with it.