Like many, over the years I have made the attempt to go fully vegan for the sake of the planet and the animals. Many of my vegan readers have asked me why I personally did not stick with it. There are two major reasons why a vegan diet has never been sustainable for me:
Food Allergies
I’ve had food allergies for all of my life. Many of these foods are unfortunately big vegan staples. A couple of main examples:
-Soy
-Tree Nuts (Almonds, Cashews, Pecans, Walnuts, Pine Nuts, Etc.)
In real world scenarios, 9 times out of 10 vegan food includes one of those ingredients. Even when cooking at home, the diet is quite limiting without these foods.
Supplement Intolerances
When you go vegan, there are supplements that are recommended, such as B12, that can only be found in animal foods. I’m very sensitive when it comes to supplements. 99% of the time they give me nausea, stomach cramps, or headaches. I’ve also experienced side effects such as loss of appetite, rashes, and insomnia. Therefore, I personally try to get my vitamins from food sources alone. For me, this means a variety that includes animal products.
I often feel guilty that I am not a vegan. With the environment in need of our assistance and the inhumane ways that so many animals are treated, I have tried to do my part in this way. I still try my best to purchase more humane animal products, such as eggs from the pasture, when possible.
I think it’s wonderful that veganism works for so many, because it can have great impacts on this planet and for certain people’s health. I know that there are many vegans who follow me, and to all of you I say: amazing. I hope you can understand the other side of the coin.