Why I am Not a Vegan: A Personal Journey and Perspective

I had been a vegan for a considerable time, even supplementing my diet. However, my health began to decline. I was increasingly anemic and lacked energy, and my body was craving meat as it struggled to stay healthy and alive.

As a result, I reverted to my previous dietary habits. I now include plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits in my diet, and I've added protein to both my dinner and breakfast.

At the grocery store, I often come across processed vegan products such as meat substitutes, deli meats, bacon, and sausages. This only highlights the fact that even vegans who claim to avoid meat often resort to such substitutes due to their cravings. Even when I was vegan, I preferred to consume vegetables in their natural state, and I did not try to trick my body into thinking they were something they weren't. While vegetables are healthy and appealing, they alone cannot provide the necessary nutrients, which is why I include meat in my diet.

Why People May Not Be Vegan

There are a variety of reasons why people may not want to be vegan. Some may be reluctant to give up eating animal products, while others may lack the necessary lifestyle changes to maintain a vegan diet. Some people are also concerned about the environmental impact of animal agriculture or the welfare of animals raised for food.

Reasons and Perspectives

1. Family Practice: Some individuals may have family traditions or religious beliefs that preclude them from being vegetarian or vegan. For example, as a Muslim, I have witnessed cattle sacrifice during the qurban, and therefore, the act of killing animals is not a foreign concept to me.

2. Supporting Killing with Purpose: I support killing with a purpose, such as upholding the death sentence for justice. I believe that killing for a materialistic purpose, like obtaining food, is a justifiable action. Similarly, I do not have a problem with eradicating harmful species to protect the ecosystem.

3. Veganism in Nature: I don't see veganism as a natural way of life. Nature itself is less about rigid dietary practices and more about survival and adaptation. Plants and fungi have lives, and I must consume them to live. This perspective challenges the concept of veganism as a universal standard for all living beings.

Practical Considerations

Vegetables are certainly healthy and visually appealing, but they alone cannot meet all nutritional needs. When my health started to decline, I realized that I needed to include protein-rich foods in my diet. This includes meat, which provides essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and other minerals that are crucial for bodily functions.

Moreover, the notion that processing and substituting meat is any better is misguided. Soy-based meat alternatives, while intended to mimic the taste and texture of meat, are often loaded with artificial ingredients, preservatives, and additives. Such processed foods should be avoided as they can harm both physical and mental health.

In conclusion, while veganism is a lifestyle choice for many, it is not the only valid path to healthy living. Personal health, family traditions, and the realities of survival in the natural world all play significant roles in determining one's dietary choices.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice to be a vegan or not should be based on personal health, ethical considerations, and the practical needs of life. While I may not be a vegan, I still support those who choose this lifestyle and believe in the value of a plant-based diet for certain individuals. However, my personal journey has shown me that a balanced diet, including meat, is crucial for overall health and well-being.