Becoming vegan was once considered extreme dieting, nowadays it’s not just a trend, delving deeper has proven a vegan diet is beneficial for your health, body, mind and overall the planet.  Before we let you in on the pros and cons, we need to advise that becoming vegan is something that you should really take your time with and not completely shock your body.  Please speak to your doctor or nutritionist before the ‘cold turkey’ approach.  So for those who want to know a little more before jumping ship, here goes our research into the pros and cons…

First off, what is an actual vegan diet you ask?  A vegan diet is a type of vegetarian diet, where only plant-based foods are eaten.  With good planning, those following a vegan diet can cover all their nutrient bases, but there are some extra things to consider.  These foods do not include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, or any foods containing them, or that derives from an animal.  This particular diet relies on plant-based foods including fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, nuts, and seeds.




Weight loss: A vegan diet is much lower in calories than any other.  You’re also eliminating dairy fats unlike those eaten by vegetarians.

Increase in antioxidants: Rich foods like beans, fruit, vegetables and more are all a part of vegan diets, which is a great opportunity for your body to absorb plenty of antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Gain self-control: Following such a strict diet like veganism requires a lot of self-control, dedication and commitment.  It can also cut down impulsive eating, when we are not actually hungry.

Reduce risk of serious illness: Vegan diets are the most effective in protecting against type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.  Vegans also have less chance of obesity and tend to have lower blood pressure.

The planet: ‘The way we breed animals is now recognised by the UN, scientists, economists and politicians as giving rise to many interlinked human and ecological problems, but with 1 billion people already not having enough to eat and 3 billion more mouths to feed within 50 years, the urgency to rethink our relationship with animals is extreme.’ – The Guardian




Weight gain: Now I know our first point in relation to weight loss is a pro, but weight gain is also a downfall on becoming vegan, as a lot of weight loss can backfire.  You’re easily hungrier than usual, so you can resort to sugary foods as the vegan diet is so restrictive.  This point is mainly aimed at the first timers who may not have developed a level of self-control.

Restricted: Sticking to such a strict diet can be a little challenging and so can trying to find something on the menu catered to you when a girl’s night or date night comes along.

Existing medical conditions: Becoming vegan can be difficult for someone with existing medical conditions.  If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis or diabetes, it is critical to speak with your nutritionist first as a vegan diet may interfere.

Lack of protein, vitamin & mineral loss: Some vegans typically give up on protein sources and have trouble consuming enough nutrients, you just need to remember to try and combine them in different ways.  Vitamin D is typically found in the vegan diet and when people think of iron, they think of red meat, but beans and leafy greens are good substitutes.  Nutritionists suggest all Vegans should acquire Vitamin B12 via a supplement tablet, and when it comes to protein, Lentils are a great source consisting of 9 grams per 100g.  Read more on lentils and there health benefits.



We hope that we have helped you out with some factual points about turning vegan or trying veganism.  Not everyone can diet the same and as you all know – we are all very different in so many ways.  That is why it’s important to get the ‘all clear’ first, just to be sure of any health issues.  If you would like to share your experience or advice in becoming vegan, please feel free to leave a comment!  Happy and Healthy eating!