Veganism has exploded in popularity across the world. For some, it’s a matter of sympathy for animals, but increasingly, many are switching to plant-based diets due to environmental and health claims. But are these claims even accurate? Does going vegan actually make a noticeable difference to the planet, or are these impacts over-exaggerated? And what about health? Is it truly beneficial, or could the lack of animal proteins and nutrients be detrimental to your body?
While numerous claims about veganism have been made over the years, access to good quality studies has only recently become more accessible. So, let’s dive in.
Is Going Vegan Better for the Environment?
This is perhaps the easiest question to answer: yes. Avoiding meat and dairy products has a significant impact on the environment. Study after study has found that a vegan diet, as opposed to a meat-eating or even vegetarian diet, uses less land, conserves more water, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an astounding 70-80%. That’s a huge difference.
However, not all vegan foods are created equal. For instance, almond milk, while plant-based, requires a lot more water to produce compared to other alternatives. But overall, transitioning to a vegan or vegetarian diet significantly reduces one’s environmental footprint. Even simply reducing your consumption of meat and dairy can make a difference; it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach.
But make no mistake—a vegan diet is undoubtedly better for the environment and the future of our planet.
The Debate on Diet and Evolution
Historically, some of the first strict plant-based eaters were athletes—specifically, gladiators. Their diets were rich in legumes, pulses, and grains, with little to no animal protein. Recent research has explored whether a vegan diet can enhance athletic performance and overall long-term health.
A question that frequently arises is: Did humans evolve as vegetarians or meat eaters?
Our sharp canine teeth might suggest meat-eating, but their primary evolutionary function may have been for intimidation, competition, or defense rather than tearing into meat. In fact, many primates closely related to us, such as chimpanzees, orangutans, and gorillas, primarily consume plant-based diets. Gorillas, for example, build impressive muscle mass without animal protein.
That said, the fossil record tells a different story. Our ancestors started eating meat around 2 million years ago, long before Homo sapiens existed. Environmental changes likely played a role; as tropical forests diminished, early humans turned to meat to supplement their diets.
So, while we share a plant-eating heritage with primates, humans have been eating meat for millions of years.
Can Humans Thrive Without Meat?
One of the biggest myths about veganism is that you can’t get enough protein without meat. This simply isn’t true. Whole grains, nuts, and beans are excellent sources of protein. Research shows that protein deficiency is extremely rare, except in cases where individuals aren’t consuming enough calories overall.
However, there’s one critical nutrient that vegan diets often lack: vitamin B12. This essential nutrient, vital for various biological functions, isn’t found in plant-based foods. It’s abundant in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, but absent in vegetables. B12 deficiencies can lead to issues like poor brain function, low energy, and even hallucinations in severe cases.
Fortunately, supplements can easily address this deficiency. B12 pills or fortified foods make it simple to maintain proper nutrient levels. The same applies to other nutrients that vegans might lack, such as iron and omega-3s.
What About Bone Health?
Calcium is another area of concern for vegans. This mineral is crucial for muscle function, nerve health, and strong bones. Without sufficient calcium, the body draws it from your bones, leading to weaker bone structure over time.
Milk campaigns from the 90s and early 2000s emphasized this point. While vegans can obtain calcium from plant sources like fortified plant-based milks, tofu, and leafy greens, they must be mindful to meet their calcium needs to maintain bone strength.
The Takeaway
While veganism undeniably offers significant environmental benefits and can support a healthy lifestyle, it’s not without its challenges. Nutritional deficiencies like B12 and calcium can arise, but they’re easily manageable with supplements and a balanced diet.
The biggest lie about veganism isn’t that it’s ineffective or harmful; rather, it’s the misconception that it’s automatically the perfect solution for everyone. Like any lifestyle, veganism requires thoughtful planning and an understanding of one’s own nutritional needs.
Whether you’re considering going vegan or just curious about the impact of plant-based living, remember that balance and informed choices are key.
