This is probably the question my friends and family are most interested in. Many years of eating animal meat had formed a habit for me and my friends, believing that eating meat is essential for health and nutrients. Facing this issue, I planned to transition my diet.
After some research, I found that the nutrients in fruits and vegetables are not only sufficient but sometimes even more abundant and beneficial than those in animal meat.
For example:
- Calcium: We often think of shrimp, crabs, and seafood as rich in calcium. However, the calcium in 100g of shrimp is not as much as in 100g of sesame seeds. In fact, shrimp contains very little calcium.
- Protein: 100g of beef contains 20g of protein, 100g of chicken breast contains 31g of protein, while 100g of tofu (a soy product) contains 35-45g of protein.
- Additionally, for a nutritious meal, animal protein typically needs to make up less than 20%, with the rest coming from greens, seeds, and starches.
Based on this information, I felt confident in changing my diet while maintaining my health, as long as I focused on finding suitable foods.
When I started the vegan diet, my weight was 75kg, and my height was 1.8 meters. After about a month and a half, I began to lose weight, down to around 72-73kg, and my skin looked a bit pale. I continued the diet, and after 2-2.5 months, my weight started to increase again. After about six months of being vegan, my weight reached 78kg, and it has since stabilized at 78-79kg.
Some of my relatives were concerned about my health and fitness. Each week, I play a soccer match, playing two halves for about 60-70 minutes without feeling as tired as I did before. I also participate in two martial arts club sessions weekly, training at a moderate pace. Monthly, I go hiking with friends, and walking up a 1km high mountain slope feels normal to me, without shortness of breath or fatigue.
Thus, after the first six months of transitioning to a vegan diet and not consuming animal products, I found my weight was even better than before. My stamina and health became more stable and enduring, and I felt I could play soccer better than before. Mentally, I felt even better. I was happier, more compassionate, and felt my life had more meaning.
Now, it’s been five years since I transitioned my diet. I rarely get sick, and my health and spirit remain stable and vibrant. I’ve found much more meaning and joy in life.
Notice
My experience is anecdotal and may not be representative of everyone who adopts a vegan diet.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.