With many fad diets like keto, paleo, and Mediterranean trending nowadays a new diet has joined the wagon It is none other than the vegan diet. The vegan diet is a diet that eliminates the use of produce from animals.’ Vegans (people who follow the vegan diet) believe in consuming things that are grown and abstaining from consuming things that are born. They also abstain from using various goods made from animal products like wool, leather, etc.
Veganism aims to limit cruelty to animals and their exploitation for various goods.
History and Origin of Veganism
Although veganism gained its popularity in the west The roots of veganism lie in the Asian continent, especially in Indian and Mediterranean cultures. The term veganism was first coined in1944. This style of living was also promoted by the great Greek mathematician Pythagoras in 500 BCE to promote benevolence among all living species. Veganism was also popularised in the west by various religious sects which promoted this form of living to promote acts of humanity.
India and Veganism
As discussed above veganism has its roots situated in India. India has been following a plant-based lifestyle for a very long time. According to several reports, Indians consume less meat than other nations. Various religious sects like Buddhism, and Jainism have also promoted a plant-based diet in India. National leaders like Mahatma Gandhi have also promoted meat-free and dairy-free diets and abstinence from goods made from animal products like wool, leather, etc.
Legumes, pulses, and vegetables are a staple in the Indian diet, this is because India produces a wide range of these products. The climate is tropical also promotes such living conditions.
Benefits of being a Vegan
- A vegan diet helps detoxify the various organs of the body. It also highly helps to regulate diabetes and reduce its consequences.
- Processed meat, Red meat tends to cause certain types of cancer Consuming a plant-based diet also acts as a preventive measure against several types of cancer.
- Fruits and vegetables are high in nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants consuming them regularly helps provide the required nutrition for the body.
- Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables also helps clear various skin and gut issues
- Following a vegan diet helps in weight management as it is rich in fibre and keeps you full.
- It reduces the exploitation of animals, Animals go through several unimaginable tortures to meet the needs of humans.
Overall veganism has positive effects on the environment. Nowadays several vegan alternatives to meat and dairy products are available today. Veganism also helps reduce the carbon footprint. It also has amazing health effects. It is also ethical and prevents the extinction of animals.