My reasons for enjoying a plant centered diet were originally based on moral grounds. About 24 years ago I stopped eating animal flesh of any kind because it seemed the right thing to do. At the time I was in the midst of what may be called an early midlife crisis, experiencing panic attacks and near-suicidal depression. That experience indicated that major life change was necessary and a new direction in my food choices was part of the resulting change.

For 17 years I enjoyed a lacto-vegetarian diet. At the age of 50 my spiritual/moral life was in order, however, my health was not optimal. My father had just died at a young age of cancer and heart-disease, I was over-weight (I had ballooned up to 242 lbs), drank too much alcohol and experienced body aches and pains that I felt were not normal for my age.

Following one particular meal of creamy potato casserole and feeling bloated and icky I said to my Family “that is it, I am finished eating all animal products”. From that point forward I have enjoyed a 100% vegan diet which includes about 80% of my nutrition being from raw, non-processed food.

Over the past 7 years I have lost about 65 pounds, enjoy an intensive physical fitness routine 5 days a week and feel great!

In my opinion and experience there exists substantial evidence of the health benefits of vegan nutrition. Additionally, it seems when examined critically, the moral impulse to not cause suffering to other beings for the sake of one’s own enjoyment (there is no health-related reason that animal product consumption is necessary for humans to live well) is reasonable and compassionate.

Toward exploring the data-driven, scientific evidence of the health benefits of a vegan diet, I suggest visiting Dr. Michael Greger over at NutritionFacts.org. The website is packed with videos and articles regarding the current best research on health science and nutrition.

For the moral perspective; we all make our own choices about what behavior fits our values and what does not. I would most humble offer that if the question of “should I eat animals?” has come up to you, it is the perfect time to stay with the consideration until you reach the conclusion that aligns with your value commitments.

Much Peace,

Jim