Veganuary is a campaign that encourages people to try a vegan diet for the month of January. The goal of Veganuary is to raise awareness about the environmental, animal welfare, and health benefits of a vegan lifestyle. In 2023, Veganuary will take place in the UK and around the world.
There are many potential benefits to being vegan, including:
Pros:
- Environmental benefits: A vegan diet can be more environmentally sustainable than a diet that includes animal products. This is because animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation, and a vegan diet requires fewer resources to produce.
- Animal welfare: Many people choose a vegan diet for ethical reasons, as it allows them to avoid supporting industries that exploit animals for food, clothing, and other products.
- Health benefits: Some studies have shown that a vegan diet can be associated with a lower risk of certain health problems, such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. Vegan diets can also be high in nutrients and low in saturated fat, making them a healthy option for some people.
However, there are also some potential drawbacks to being vegan:
Cons:
- Nutrient deficiencies: A vegan diet may be low in certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium. It is important for vegans to be mindful of these nutrients and make sure they are getting enough through their diet or supplements.
- Social challenges: Being vegan can sometimes be difficult in social situations, as it may be harder to find vegan options when eating out or attending events. It may also be challenging to find vegan-friendly products in some areas.
- Time and effort: A vegan diet may require more planning and preparation, as it involves cutting out many common food groups and finding alternatives.
If you are considering trying a vegan diet for Veganuary or beyond, here are five health tips to keep in mind:
- Eat a variety of plant-based foods: To get all the nutrients you need, it is important to eat a variety of plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Pay attention to protein: Plant-based sources of protein include beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, and seeds. Make sure to include these foods in your diet to ensure you are getting enough protein.
- Get enough iron: Iron is important for carrying oxygen to the body’s cells. Good plant-based sources of iron include beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, and seeds. To help your body absorb iron from plant-based sources, try pairing them with foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or bell peppers.
- Don’t forget about calcium: Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth. Good plant-based sources of calcium include leafy green vegetables, nuts, and fortified plant-based milks and juices.
- Consider supplements: Depending on your dietary needs, you may need to take supplements to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need. This is particularly important for vegans, who may be at risk of certain nutrient deficiencies.
Overall, a vegan diet can be a healthy and sustainable choice for some people. However, it is important to be mindful of nutrients that may be lacking in a vegan diet and to take steps to ensure you are getting enough of them through your diet or supplements. Remember, there are pros and cons of veganism
At Wellbeing in your Office, we can train your team on many aspects of Nutrition with our fully qualified Nutritionists. Check out some of our sessions here.