Date published: 1/7/2008

A vegan diet is good for body and environment

Bravo to Riverbend High School freshman Sarah Keith for resolving to go vegan ["Veganism may be difficult to stomach," Jan. 1].

I went vegan more than 16 years ago, and it was the best decision I ever made. My health greatly improved when I stopped eating animal products, and I feel especially good knowing that my food choices don't harm animals or pollute the planet.

Vegan foods are cholesterol-free, low in saturated fat and calories, and high in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and other vital nutrients.

According to Dr. T. Colin Campbell, an internationally renowned nutrition expert, "The vast majority of all cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and other forms of degenerative illness can be prevented simply by adopting a plant-based diet."

Researchers at the University of Chicago have determined that switching to a vegan diet is more effective in countering global warming than switching from a standard American car to a Prius. It takes significantly less water, land, grain, fossil fuels, and other resources to produce a vegan diet than a meat-based one, and each vegan saves more than 100 animals every year.

And trust me, vegan foods are delicious and diverse. Most supermarkets and health-food stores carry an array of mock meats, non-dairy milks and frozen desserts, and other plant-based options.

Date published: 1/7/2008

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