Veganism has been a growing lifestyle to many these past years.  Data suggests that there has been a 40% increase from 2020 to 2022. A growing number of vegan items are placed on shelves of stores like Kroger, Walmart, and other large store names. Health awareness of negative effects on the body from eating animal products is coming to light from all parts of the media. Overall, it feels like converting to veganism is becoming more popular.

The years before 2020, people in the age range of over 26 were the ones converting into these plant based diets. But as covid fears swept the nation and shut people in, it was popular to try new things. Meat was becoming a health concern to many due to the sanitary nature of meat production. Many influencers online began posting vegan challenges or replacing meat foods with plants. This is when the rise of teens converting into veganism began. In an article about teens starting their journey, some say that it wasn’t only celebrities playing a part in their change, it was the movement on social media, and the message of how veganism is a healthy alternative that can help the world. Proponents of veganism believe it benefits people’s health and well being, takes care of the other beings on the planet besides ourselves, and is an overall wonderful health revolution.

People who are testing the waters of this diet struggle a lot to keep a balanced diet. Vegans  have to keep up in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Fruits and vegetables might include “high” levels of these essentials, but it’s still not enough. Things like fatty acids, B12, and calcium are lacking from plant-based foods. It might be difficult going out to restaurants and finding anything to eat besides a bowl of salad or something from the kids meal. Planning ahead is overall the most helpful thing to do before  diving into a diet like this, but the large number of people switching to veganism has lessened many of the challenges of this diet to some degree. Now it is common to see vegan options available in most chain and fast food restaurant options.

While veganism can be a challenge, there are countless positives about converting into a vegan diet. The biggest goal is preventing animal suffering.Another benefit of a Vegan diet is the reduction of risk or help to heal illnesses that might have become worse due to animal products. Studies show that diabetics and people with asthma benefit greatly when converting to veganism.

 With how popular vegan diets are becoming, more meat alternatives are being made, meaning there is  no need for an animal’s death to provide us with a nutritious meal. Vegans are still in the minority, and it’s sadly obvious one soybean burger isn’t going to release all the animals in the world being confined for slaughter, but vegans have the peace of mind that they  don’t have an innocent animal on their plate at lunchtime. Even if I and many other vegans or vegetarians make the ethical problems associated with  killing an animal very vocal, it really is the only way to get people to listen to different perspectives.

Veganism can be a one week try, but those who try the diet might find that it has an overall positive impact on their health and well-being. Veganism can  slowly help the world and greatly help your lifestyle. As a vegetarian student, I believe more of my peers should try the diet.