WHY A PLANT-BASED DIET IS BETTER FOR YOUR HEALTH & THE PLANET

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ALANNA KETLER, OCTOBER 23, 2017

When it comes to diet, we all know that there is SO MUCH CONFLICTING INFORMATION OUT THERE as to what it really means to be healthy and what you should do to be healthy. Especially in the realm of plant-based eating, there is no shortage of confliction, and many are left very confused as to whether or not they can get the adequate vitamins, minerals, protein and nutrients from a plant-based diet alone. Even though many swear by it, and we have some amazing examples of very strong, healthy and vibrant vegans, there are still many skeptics out there who insist that animal products are an essential factor to maintain good health.

If there is one thing we can all agree on, however, at least after doing just a little bit of research is that a plant-based diet is way better for the environment, in so many ways. The following video does an excellent job of summarizing the benefits that come from adopting a plant-based diet for the environment and yourself.

Obviously, I don’t want to tell anyone what to do. I’m not at liberty to do so, but at least the video can offer you something to consider. Even if you don’t believe that a plant-based diet is healthier for you, that’s okay. You can still see some of the benefits of consuming much less animal products. Even just changing what you eat in one day will have a significant impact over time. If everyone in the world cut out animal products for just one week, can you imagine the impact that would have on the environment and how many lives would be saved?



Frequently Asked Questions

One question that I often hear from people who are skeptical about giving up meat is, “If we stopped eating animals what would happen to all of them? We would have way too many cows, pigs, chickens, etc.” The answer to this is that we wouldn’t because right now, they aren’t reproducing naturally; they are being mass-produced for the sole purpose of consumption. If we stopped eating so many animals, they would no longer be bred and this wouldn’t be an issue.

There is a debate as to whether or not buying ethically raised, or “sustainable” meat and animal products and whether or not this makes a difference. If everyone just up and decided to switch over to grass fed, pasture-raised, organic meat and animal products, then there simply wouldn’t be enough, and it would not be sustainable. So, unfortunately this isn’t a solution. But, if everyone were to drastically reduce their consumption of these products, then this just might work.

Sure, humans evolved eating meat. This is one of the most commonly used arguments in regard to our diet. But, it is important to consider that the meat that humans evolved eating was hunted, and every single piece of the animal was used. Also, an animal that is being hunted in the wild has a free life and a fair chance to get away. Really, this is the only way consuming animals stacks up against the argument that we are at the top of the food chain and that other animals eat animals as well, so why shouldn’t we?

If you consider yourself an environmentally conscious person, and you care about the future of our planet, then this is the single most important step you can take to reduce your impact. Reduce your intake of meat and animal products. It is so simple and so effective. There are tons of resources available online, and many delicious recipes. Vegan and plant-based restaurants are popping up everywhere, and in all honesty, it’s not hard! you just have to go for it and give it a try.

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