My BF got sick on our new vegan diet, what is his best sustainable alternative?

Being vegan is considered the most ethical way of eating, some argue it's even healthier, but it didn't work for my partner, what's the alternative?

Going vegan is a decision many people make to promote sustainability, reduce animal suffering, and improve their health. However, what happens when a vegan diet makes you sick? This was the experience of John, my 27-year-old man who adopted a vegan lifestyle three years ago. After experiencing severe fatigue, muscle weakness, and other symptoms, John was diagnosed with a vitamin B12 deficiency, anemia, and other health problems related to his vegan diet. He realized that being vegan was not sustainable for his health and started to explore alternative options. Here are some of his best sustainable alternatives to a vegan diet.

1. Pescatarianism

Pescatarianism is a diet that includes fish and seafood but excludes meat and poultry. For John, this diet provides him with enough protein, vitamin B12, and other essential nutrients that he was missing on a vegan diet. Additionally, it allows him to reduce his carbon footprint while still enjoying some animal-based protein.

1. Flexitarianism

Flexitarianism is a diet that is primarily plant-based but allows for occasional meat and animal products. For John, this diet offers the flexibility he needs to maintain his health while still reducing his animal product consumption. He focuses on plant-based meals most of the time but enjoys animal products occasionally to ensure that he is meeting his nutritional needs.

1. Sustainable animal farming

John recognizes the importance of reducing animal suffering and promoting sustainable farming practices. He now sources his animal products from local farms that use regenerative agriculture and humane practices. This ensures that he is consuming animal products that are not only healthy but also produced in an ethical and sustainable manner.

1. Mindful consumption

John has also become more mindful of his consumption habits. He avoids processed foods and focuses on whole foods that are nutrient-dense and sustainably produced. Additionally, he has reduced his food waste by planning his meals and only purchasing what he needs.

1. Supplements

Finally, John recognizes the importance of supplementing his diet with essential nutrients that may be lacking in his diet. He now takes a vitamin B12 supplement and other essential vitamins and minerals to ensure that he is meeting his nutritional needs.

John's experience with a vegan diet highlights the importance of finding a sustainable diet that works for your individual needs. While a vegan diet may work for some, it may not be sustainable for everyone. By exploring alternative options such as pescatarianism, flexitarianism, sustainable animal farming, mindful consumption, and supplements, you can find a diet that is not only healthy but also sustainable for the planet.

Another tip for our users is to visit Health Labs to get tested for vitamins and nutrient deficiencies, as well as whether veganism is right for you.

We would love to hear your experience about a #sustainable diet, please let us know in a comment below!

#diet #sustainability #eating #plantbased