Vegan Diets

In this book, Jan Deckers addresses the most crucial question that people must deliberate in relation to how we should treat other animals: whether we should eat animal products. Many people object to the consumption of animal products from the conviction that it inflicts pain, suffering, and death upon animals. This book argues that a convincing ethical theory cannot be based on these important concerns: rather, it must focus on our interest in human health. Tending to this interest demands not only that we extend speciesism—the attribution of special significance to members of our own species merely because they belong to the same species as ourself—towards nonhuman animals, but also that we safeguard the integrity of nature. In this light, projects that aim to engineer the genetic material of animals to reduce their capacities to feel pain and to suffer are morally suspect. The same applies to projects that aim to develop in-vitro flesh, even if the production of such flesh should be welcomed on other grounds. The theory proposed in this book is accompanied by a political goal, the ‘vegan project’, which strives for a qualified ban on the consumption of animal products. Deckers also provides empirical evidence that some support for this goal exists already, and his analysis of the views of others—including those of slaughterhouse workers—reveals that the vegan project stands firm in spite of public opposition. Many charges have been pressed against vegan diets, including: that they alienate human beings from nature; that they increase human food security concerns; and that they are unsustainable. Deckers argues that these charges are legitimate in some cases, but that, in many situations, vegan diets are actually superior. For those who remain doubtful, the book also contains an appendix that considers whether vegan diets might actually be nutritionally adequate.

A comprehensive look at vegan diets includes information on how a vegan lifestyle protects against chronic disease; what the best sources for protein and calcium really are; why good fats are vital to health; balanced diets for infants, children and seniors; pregnancy and breast-feeding tips for mothers; tips for teens turning vegan; considerations for maintaining and reaching a healthy weight; and achieving peak performance as a vegan athlete. Includes a vegan food guide outlining a daily plan for healthy eating, along with sample menus.

Vegans don't just follow a diet, they follow a lifestyle. They avoid eating and using animal products. Readers will learn further definitions and sub groups. This volume addresses why people choose to go vegan, and shares the health implications of that choice. It also delves into the ethics of veganism and how companies and restaurants are accommodating the vegan lifestyle. Full-color photographs and diagrams, a glossary, sources for further reading and research, and a detailed subject index are also included.

Vegetarian and Plant-Based Diets in Health and Disease Prevention examines the science of vegetarian and plant-based diets and their nutritional impact on human health. This book assembles the science related to vegetarian and plant-based diets in a comprehensive, balanced, single reference that discusses both the overall benefits of plant-based diets on health and the risk of disease and issues concerning the status in certain nutrients of the individuals, while providing overall consideration to the entire spectrum of vegetarian diets. Broken into five sections, the first provides a general overview of vegetarian / plant-based diets so that readers have a foundational understanding of the topic. Dietary choices and their relation with nutritional transition and sustainability issues are discussed. The second and third sections provide a comprehensive description of the relationship between plant-based diets and health and disease prevention. The fourth section provides a deeper look into how the relationship between plant-based diets and health and disease prevention may differ in populations with different age or physiological status. The fifth and final section of the book details the nutrients and substances whose intakes are related to the proportions of plant or animal products in the diet. Discusses the links between health and certain important characteristics of plant-based diets at the level of food groups Analyzes the relation between plant-based diet and health at the different nutritional levels, i.e. from dietary patterns to specific nutrients and substances Provides a balanced evidence-based approach to analyze the positive and negative aspects of vegetarianism Addresses the different aspects of diets predominantly based on plants, including geographical and cultural variations of vegetarianism

The authors offer science-based answers to tough questions about raw foods and raw diets, furnish nutrition guidelines and practical information, and show how to construct a raw diet that meets recommended nutrient intakes simply and easily.

The comprehensive guide for optimal plant-based nutrition at every stage of life, now completely updated. Are you considering going vegan, but not sure how to start? Are you already committed to an animal-free diet, but are unclear about how to get proper nutrients? Vegan for Life is your comprehensive, go-to guide for optimal plant-based nutrition. Registered dietitians and long-time vegans Jack Norris and Virginia Messina debunk some of the most persistent myths about vegan nutrition and provide essential information about getting enough calcium and protein, finding the best supplements, and understanding the "real deal" about organics, processed foods, raw foods, and more. Now, ten years since its original publication, the book has been completely revised and updated, with: A brand-new chapter on vegan eating for weight management Guidance on eating to prevent chronic disease The latest findings on sports nutrition and muscle mass Easy-to-follow vegan food guides, menus, and pantry lists Covering everything from a six-step transition plan to meeting calorie and nutrient needs during every stage of life, Vegan for Life is the guide for aspiring and veteran vegans alike.

The United States is one of the sickest nations on the planet. Most Americans accept degenerative chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, atherosclerosis, heart disease, osteoporosis and cancer as part of the normal aging process. Find out how a diet based on the New Food Four Groups can help prevent or alleviate the chronic diseases that affect so many Americans--often without the need for pills, surgery, or fad diets. In this thoroughly researched and comprehensive guide, Dr. Kerrie Saunders points the way to new standards of health and health care for the twenty-first century.

While following a plant-based diet can provide many health and environmental benefits, vegetarians and vegans are at greater risk for certain nutritional deficiencies. They may also face challenges when grocery shopping, dining out, and interacting with friends and family. More and more Americans are reducing or completely eliminating meat and other animal products from their diet. Some are motivated by concerns surrounding animal welfare and the environmental impact of meat, while others hope to improve their health by following a plant-based diet. Although a vegetarian or vegan diet can provide many benefits, it can also pose unique challenges and health risks. Part of Greenwood's Q&A Health Guides series, Vegetarian and Vegan Diets: Your Questions Answered follows a reader-friendly question-and-answer format that anticipates readers' needs and concerns. Prevalent myths and misconceptions are identified and dispelled, and a collection of case studies illustrates key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. Each book in the series also includes a section on health literacy, equipping teens and young adults with practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the internet—important skills that contribute to a lifetime of healthy decision-making.