PART 2
Can Humans Sustain A Plant-Based Diet?
We should address a fundamental question: ‘Is it even possible to follow a vegan diet?’ As if following a vegan diet posed significant health risks or a limited lifespan, it would be hard advocating for people to do something that harms themseves. So, if humans truly needed animal products for survival, the case for veganism would likely fall on deaf ears.
The answer is a resounding ‘Yes!’ Humans can maintain excellent health on a vegan diet.
This isn’t just anecdotal; it’s supported by scientific and nutritional experts. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the world’s largest organization of accredited nutrition and dietetics practitioners (with over 112,000 members), affirm that a vegan diet can be nutritionally sound and even offer significant health benefits for disease prevention and management.
According to the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics organization, a vegan diet is suitable for all stages of life, including pregnancy, lactation, childhood, old age and athletes. They also emphasize the environmental benefits of vegan diets, which consume fewer resources and have a reduced environmental impact. Furthermore, they point out that vegans have a lower risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Vegan diets, rich in plant foods, contribute to lower cholesterol levels and improved blood sugar control, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The British Dietetic Association similarly affirms that a well-planned vegan diet can support healthy living in people of all ages.