I'm always amazed (even after years) when I hear of someone reporting that a vegan diet "doesn't work", or that they quit after years of being a vegan because they suddenly discovered that they weren't getting enough protein. Really? At what point within a multiple year period would someone discover this? The World Health Organization reports that even active humans need no more than 5 to 10% of protein from their overall caloric intake. If you're eating enough - you're getting enough protein. I have thrived on a vegan diet. If after sometime I discovered that I was no longer thriving - I would certainly address the issue. Yet it's doubtful that animal protein - at the exclusion of countless plant-based protein sources - would be the answer. The bottom line is that people quit being a vegan for the simple reason of wanting to eat meat. I'm fine with that - I just ask for some honesty in reasons being given. Eventually we will all be faced with the need for dietary change - our current model is simply unsustainable, not just for future generations but for ours as well. We are in the midst of a health crisis, our environment is in rapid decline and our agricultural process is run by big businesses with little concern for us let alone the animals they treat as commodities. We will have to change. We will need to change. Many will resist - that's the nature of change. And as it is in nature change will overcome many. With a little education, self care and compassion for beings large and small we can make this change as seamless as possible. We don't all have to be vegans. But we do all have to care for each other, and other beings and the planet. Lets start today. Right now. Simply reduce the amount of meat to smaller portions - use is as a side dish instead of the main course. Try a "meatless day" once a week. Eat vegan through the day and enjoy a well planned meal that includes meat in the evening. Or be a vegan. There are lots of options. Not caring isn't one of them.
Peace,
Eric
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