As the new year is here (Yay 2023!), I spent yesterday with family and friends in one of the many vegan restaurants in Brighton, and it made me think about how it’s easier than ever before to try out a vegan diet. I know many people are considering making a change to their diet after the heavy meals of December.
One popular resolution is to try out Veganuary – a movement that encourages people to go vegan for the month of January. If you’re considering giving Veganuary a try, you may be wondering about the potential health benefits of a vegan diet. From a naturopathic perspective, a vegan diet can offer a range of benefits to support overall health and well-being.
But first, let’s define Veganuary and briefly discuss the potential health benefits of a vegan diet.
Veganuary is a global campaign that encourages people to try a vegan diet for the month of January.
The goal is to raise awareness about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle and to make it easier for people to try out veganism. A vegan diet is one that excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs.
There are many potential health benefits to a vegan diet.
Some people may choose to go vegan for weight loss, as plant-based foods are generally lower in calories and fat compared to animal products. A vegan diet may also improve cardiovascular health, as it is typically low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Some studies have also found that a vegan diet may lower the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer. In addition, a vegan diet may improve digestion, as plant-based foods are high in fibre. Finally, some people report clearer skin on a vegan diet due to the increase in fruits and vegetables, which are high in antioxidants.
Now, let’s delve into the naturopathic perspective on veganism.
Naturopathy is a holistic approach to health that emphasises the use of natural remedies and the body’s own healing abilities. Naturopathic practitioners focus on finding the root cause of health issues and treating the whole person, rather than just addressing symptoms. There are several naturopathic principles that align with a vegan lifestyle.
First, naturopathy emphasises the importance of a healthy diet. A healthy vegan diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, all of which provide important nutrients and support overall health. Second, naturopathy promotes the use of natural remedies, and a vegan diet is naturally free of additives and preservatives. Finally, naturopathy encourages a holistic approach to health, and a vegan lifestyle can support environmental and animal welfare.
So, how can you successfully try out Veganuary?
One common concern about a vegan diet is getting enough protein. However, there are many plant-based sources of protein, including beans, lentils, tofu, and tempeh. It’s also important to include a variety of plant-based foods in your diet to ensure that you’re getting all of the essential nutrients your body needs. For example, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 can be harder to come by on a vegan diet. To ensure you’re getting enough of these nutrients, consider taking supplements or incorporating fortified foods into your diet.
In conclusion, a vegan diet can offer a range of potential health benefits, and the naturopathic perspective supports the use of a vegan lifestyle to support overall health and well-being. If you’re considering giving Veganuary a try, remember to focus on variety and be mindful of essential nutrients like omega-3s and vitamin B12. With some planning and preparation, you can successfully incorporate a vegan diet into your life and potentially experience the many health benefits it has to offer.
