The Real World of Veganism: Living a Healthy, Pain-Free Life Without Missing Out

I've been vegan for over a decade, and life is better than it was when I wasn't. I feel healthier, more energetic, and less in pain than I ever have before. For me, the decision to live a vegan lifestyle isn't just about health; it's about compassion for animals, the environment, and my fellow humans. If I hadn't made this choice, I wouldn't have the clarity and purpose that comes from it.

Understanding Veganism

Veganism is about more than just abstaining from animal products; it's a lifestyle that thrives on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes while minimizing environmental impact and promoting animal welfare. The journey can be different for everyone, but for many, it means discovering fulfillment, facing challenges, and finding a sense of purpose in their commitment to a plant-based lifestyle.

Feeling Healthier: A Compassionate Choice

Veganism is often associated with health benefits. Studies have shown that Seventh Day Adventists, who are largely vegan, generally enjoy better health outcomes. While I haven't delved deeply into these studies, I can attest to the personal health benefits I've experienced. The idea that I'm too busy eating bacon to care is simply nonsensical; the reverse is true. A plant-based diet keeps me in peak condition and free from the constant pain that can come with an unhealthier lifestyle.

My Journey as a Vegan

As a vegan for over a decade, I've seen countless benefits. Not only have I healed quickly and stayed free of illness, but I am also an active person with full athletic abilities. I've even broken a bone, and my recovery was seamless, testament to the health benefits of a vegan lifestyle. At 60 years old, I am an embodiment of what it means to live well as a vegan.

I work out three times a week, and my muscle tone is respectable. My limbs fully extend, and I'm still an athlete, pushing my body to the limits. My arm, which anyone might think would be lame, shows no sign of weakness. This is my proof that a vegan lifestyle is a viable, healthy, and fulfilling one. The idea that I would be missing out on anything by not consuming animal products is simply a myth.

The Nitty-Gritty of Living Vegan

An active vegan lifestyle involves more attention and care in food selection. There are strict categories of food worth avoiding, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, crustaceans, mollusks, butter, cheese, yogurt, cream, fermented milks, and honey. Some vegans even avoid avocados, as they can exploit bees, though this practice varies. Additionally, ethical vegans often eschew wool, silk, mohair, and leather, and may refuse certain vaccines and hormones that are derived from animals.

Ensuring adequate nutrition is crucial, with a particular focus on vitamin B12. Some vegan foods, while convenient, can be ultra-processed, so it's best to prepare meals from scratch. You'll also need to be mindful of where your goods come from, ensuring that they are sustainably sourced and ethically produced.

As a vegan, you won't burn beeswax candles, polish furniture with beeswax, or wear perfume containing animal derivatives. You won't keep pets, nor will you kill houseflies. Some very strict vegans won't even listen to music played on stringed sheepgut or bowed horsehair instruments, which is a testament to their commitment to ethical living. However, some vegans do eat roadkill, such as dead badgers, highlighting the varied nature of individual choices within the vegan community.

In conclusion, living a vegan lifestyle is not just a dietary choice; it's a way of life that can lead to a healthier, more compassionate, and pain-free existence. While there are challenges, these pale in comparison to the rewards. Whether you're a longtime vegan or considering making the switch, the world of veganism has a lot to offer.

Conclusion

Living as a vegan has brought me health, purpose, and a sense of fulfillment that I never expected. By embracing a plant-based lifestyle, I've not only improved my own well-being but also joined a community that is making a positive impact on the planet and its inhabitants. If you're considering a vegan lifestyle, there's no need to worry about missing out. Instead, focus on the numerous benefits that await you.

FAQ

Q: Can vegans eat roadkill?
A: Some very strict vegans might consume roadkill, such as dead badgers, but it is not a common practice among most vegans.

Q: Do vegans need supplements?
A: While some vegans may need to supplement with nutrients like vitamin B12, many find that a well-planned diet provides adequate nutrition. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Q: Can vegans wear silk or wool?
A: Many vegans avoid wearing silk or wool due to ethical concerns. However, alternatives like rayon and acetate can be used as sustainable, cruelty-free options.