What happens to your body when you go vegan? Here are five things.

If you’ve been wondering “why should I go vegan”, we’re here for you. There are plenty of reasons why you should go vegan. There’s animal welfare, the impact of animal agriculture and climate change, as well as your health. But, for today’s purpose, we’re talking strictly about why you should go vegan for your health.

If you were to compare vegan bodies before and after, there are quite a few differences.

Here are 5 things that can happen to your body when you go vegan.

1. Weight loss

Depending on what you’re consuming, you can experience weight loss by going vegan. Typically, weight loss occurs if you’re sticking to a meal plan that includes whole plant foods and high protein. Many find that giving up animal products leads to weight loss. This happens because people are consuming food that is lower in calories and higher in fiber. In addition, a vegan diet can help reduce the risk of obesity.

2. Improved heart health

Next, let’s look at heart health. It’s another great reason why you should go vegan. You can help your heart by consuming a vegan diet that is high in fiber, healthy fats and antioxidants. At the same time, reduce your saturated fats and cholesterol. By going vegan, you can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease (which is one of the leading causes of death). Vegan diets have also been shown to lower blood pressure and improve blood sugar control, both of which are important for heart health.

3. Lower risk of certain cancers

Now, let’s talk about how going vegan may lower the risk of getting certain cancers. For example, a report from the National Institutes of Heath (NIH) shares that most large prospective observational studies report that vegetarian diets are “at least modestly cancer protective”. They reduce the overall cancer risk 10 to 12 percent. In addition, plant foods like fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, antioxidants and other phytochemicals may reduce the risk of cancer diagnosis and recurrence. 

On the flip side, research links the consumption of meat, especially red and processed, to an increased risk of cancer.

4. Improved kidney function

Still wondering why you should go vegan? When it comes to kidney function and going vegan, it may help improve kidney function. According to the National Kidney Foundation, replacing animal-based foods with plant-based foods can help prevent and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Superfoods like blueberries, cauliflower, garlic and cabbage can help prevent or alleviate the pain and symptoms of kidney disease.

5. Better blood sugar control

In 2018, the American Diabetes Association recognized a vegan diet as an effective approach to treat Type 2 diabetes. Then, in 2021, the American Heart Associate’s Dietary Guidance to Improve Cardiovascular Health shared that the majority of proteins people consume should be plant-based since those with Type 2 diabetes have a greater risk (between three and five times) of heart disease. 

Vegan diets that are high in vegetables, legumes, fruits. whole grains, nuts and seeds have been shown to improve insulin resistance.

Final thoughts about what happens to your body when you go vegan

This information should not be in place of meeting with your doctor to discuss going vegan. It and is not intended as medical advice. Like any lifestyle change, please discuss this with your doctor and nutritionist to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need. With planning and education, a vegan lifestyle can meet your needs. 

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