Are Vegans Against Killing Animals Completely or Just Cruel Meat Production?
For 54 years, I have been a vegan. Over the years, I have come to understand and embrace the ethical and health-driven reasons for living this lifestyle. One of the most commonly asked questions is whether vegans are against all forms of killing animals or just against cruel meat production. In this article, I will explore this topic in detail while sharing my personal experiences and the numerous health benefits I have experienced as a vegan.
The Ethical Stance of Vegans
Vegans generally oppose any form of animal exploitation, including killing animals unnecessarily. However, the nuances of ethical beliefs can vary among individuals. Many vegans recognize that lab-grown meat, if produced under ethical conditions, might be a step towards reducing harm to animals. This perspective acknowledges the need for a paradigm shift in food production without endorsing unnecessary animal suffering.
Health Benefits of a Vegan Lifestyle
My journey as a vegan has been profoundly transformative, both ethically and health-wise. Here are some key health benefits I have experienced:
Profound Health Benefits
Reduced Risk of Cancer: As a vegan, I have: 40% lower risk of all cancers. 75% less risk of gallstones. 47% less risk of kidney disease. 74% less risk of type 2 diabetes. 36% lower risk of developing macular degeneration. 95% less risk of a ischemic stroke. 75% less risk of high blood pressure. 36% lower risk of osteoporosis. 45% less risk of elderly dementia. 37% of breast cancers come from bovine leukemia virus from cows' milk, a risk that is greatly reduced in a vegan diet.Additional Health Benefits
Better Overall Health: My body has become more alkaline/oxygenated, and my feces smell much better. Bill Clinton, a former US President, echoed this sentiment, stating that veganism was a key factor in his health. Disease Prevention: My risk of erectile dysfunction is 98% lower as a vegan, and I have had no colds, flus, or viral infections due to naturally better gut bacteria. Vegetarian diets have also been shown to reduce the risk of appendix-related complications, and I have not experienced headaches or menstrual cramps, which are common among non-vegans. Lower Inflammation: My naturopath has confirmed that my inflammation markers are extremely low, leading to less pain. Endurance and Vitality: I have higher endurance compared to my omnivore peers, a trait commonly observed among endurance athletes. Being vegan has also allowed me to live true to my biological needs, as only herbivores have sweat glands. Environmental and Financial Benefits: My diet is simple, requiring no fridge, and it saves me about $2800 per year.Other Benefits
In addition to the health benefits, being a vegan has improved my spiritual and mental well-being:
Improved Relationships: My vegan lifestyle has brought me closer to animals, with them trusting me more due to my non-consumptive habits. Lower Risk of Food Poisoning: My risk of food poisoning is significantly lower, and my chance of choking on food is much reduced. Increased Longevity: Studies suggest that a vegan lifestyle can add between 8-15 years to one's life, and life insurance companies may offer discounts to vegans. Ethical Example: My vegan lifestyle demonstrates that humans can be healthy and happy without consuming any kind of flesh or bodily secretions.Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to remain vegan despite potential advancements in meat production methods lies in the ethical beliefs of the individual. For me, my vegan lifestyle has been not just a choice but a way of life that promotes health, compassion, and environmental sustainability.
If you have questions about my journey or the information presented, please feel free to reach out. I am always happy to share my sources and insights.