The pros and cons of being a vegan | Vegan Lifestyle Blog

The vegan diet has become more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle choice that an increasing number of people are adopting. But what are the pros and cons of being a vegan? From scientific studies to documentaries like “What the Health” and “Game Changers,” debates about plant-based living have sparked intense discussions on social media and beyond.

In this article, we’ll examine both the positive and negative aspects of a vegan lifestyle, exploring its potential benefits for human health and the environment, as well as its challenges—nutritional or otherwise. We’ll also look at current data showing how many individuals in Europe and around the world have embraced vegetarian or vegan diets.

The percentage of vegans and vegetarians

Vegetarians and vegans worldwide

The data shown in this chart is drawn from Statista (2022-2023) and Wikipedia. It represents the percentage of a country’s population that identifies as vegetarian or vegan. As you can see, certain countries—like India with 9% vegans—stand out, while Germany and Austria also have comparatively high percentages of those following vegetarian and vegan diets.

Health Aspects: Pros and Cons of Vegan Diet

Among the pros cons of vegan diet arguments, potential health benefits are often emphasized. When well-planned, a vegan lifestyle can provide plenty of antioxidants, phytochemicals, minerals, and trace elements. Some studies even suggest that a plant-based diet may help reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes or heart disease.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also aid in weight management and help lower levels of LDL cholesterol—often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Additionally, many individuals report experiencing improved digestion due to the high fiber intake commonly associated with a vegan diet.

Better Digestion

Another advantage to consider is the positive impact on digestion. A plant-based diet, abundant in dietary fiber, can enhance the diversity of gut bacteria, stabilizing the body’s microbiome. This, in turn, can influence our immune system and overall health. Many people find that a vegan diet can reduce digestive issues like constipation or bloating, thanks to the fiber content of whole foods such as legumes, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

Environmental Benefits

A significant “pro” in the “pros and cons of being a vegan” debate involves environmental sustainability. Compared to animal products, plant-based foods typically require fewer natural resources—less land, water, and energy—and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. A widespread shift to plant-based consumption could drastically reduce the environmental footprint of our global food system.

In particular, issues related to factory farming have a direct effect on water usage and pollution. Large-scale livestock operations can contaminate waterways with manure containing antibiotic residues. Further, industrial cultivation of feed crops such as soy and corn can lead to deforestation, as witnessed in the Amazon rainforest.

Potential Downsides: Nutritional Gaps

One of the most common questions about vegan diets is whether it provides all necessary nutrients. Certain nutritional deficiencies, notably in vitamin B12 and iron, can occur if meals are not balanced or supplemented appropriately. Vitamin B12, for instance, is largely found in animal-derived foods, so vegans often need supplements or fortified products to maintain healthy levels.

Another potential downside is the availability of vegan options. Depending on where you live or travel, your food choices may be limited, leading to difficulties at social gatherings and restaurants. Some people also point out that not all vegan foods are healthy— you can still consume too much sugar, salt, or overly processed items on a vegan diet.

Social and Cultural Challenges

Adopting a vegan lifestyle can also lead to social hurdles. In certain cultural contexts, shared meals heavily feature animal-based dishes. A newly transitioned vegan may feel out of place at gatherings or have to ask for special accommodations. These cultural and social factors should be considered part of the pros and cons of being a vegan.

Is Veganism Healthy in the Long Run?

Studies like the Adventist Health Study 2 (AHS-2) and EPIC-Oxford suggest that well-planned vegan diets may support longevity and reduce risks for some conditions, including colorectal cancer and type 2 diabetes. However, it’s important to remember that a vegan diet, like any diet, requires conscious planning. Relying on sugary or processed plant-based convenience foods can undermine these health benefits.

The Adventist Health Study, for instance, found that vegans in their cohort had roughly a 15% lower mortality rate compared with non-vegans. Moreover, they tended to have lower cholesterol levels and a lower incidence of certain types of cancer. Therefore, a vegan diet can certainly be healthy long-term—if you ensure you’re covering your nutrient bases.

Conclusion

Weighing the pros and cons of being a vegan, it’s clear that a plant-based lifestyle can offer substantial advantages—from disease prevention and weight management to reduced environmental impact and ethical benefits for animals. On the other hand, it demands careful meal planning to avoid nutritional gaps, as well as readiness to face social and cultural obstacles.

Ultimately, whether you choose to adopt a vegan lifestyle depends on your health goals, ethical beliefs, and personal circumstances. We hope this overview has given you new insights into the pros cons of vegan diet and helps you make an informed decision that aligns with your values and well-being.