The Rise and Fall of Veganism: Why It’s Not Sustainable Long-Term

In recent years, veganism has seen an undeniable rise in popularity. From the ethical concerns surrounding animal welfare to environmental arguments, the movement has attracted millions of followers worldwide. For many, the initial switch to a plant-based diet brings a sense of energy, weight loss, and general well-being. However, after years of strict adherence, many vegans begin to experience a range of health issues, from mineral deficiencies to autoimmune conditions. These health problems often arise due to the body’s long-term depletion of nutrients that are only readily available in animal products. Below, we dive into why the rise of veganism eventually leads to its fall for many adherents.

Before we go further, if you are interested to see how many vegans you have vanquished, calculate that using our VeganOffset Calculator™.

The Initial Boost: Why Many Vegans Feel Great at First

When individuals first adopt a vegan diet, they often report feeling better almost immediately. This is largely due to the removal of processed foods and the increased intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A plant-based diet can initially lead to weight loss, improved digestion, and a surge in energy levels due to a high intake of fiber and micronutrients from plant sources.

Additionally, many people cutting out animal products often consume fewer calories overall and eliminate foods high in saturated fats and sugar, leading to initial improvements in overall health. The initial feeling of "lightness" and increased vitality is attractive and reinforces the idea that veganism is the healthiest option. However, these benefits may only last for a few years.

The Long-Term Nutrient Deficiencies of Veganism

While veganism may seem like the perfect solution for health-conscious individuals at first, the long-term effects can be far less desirable. Over time, many vegans begin to experience signs of nutrient deficiencies that can’t be corrected by plant foods alone. The body’s stores of essential vitamins and minerals—especially those found in animal products—begin to dwindle.

1. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is one of the most common deficiencies in long-term vegans. It plays a critical role in red blood cell formation, brain function, and DNA synthesis. Since B12 is almost exclusively found in animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy, vegans often struggle to get adequate amounts from their diet. Prolonged B12 deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, and even irreversible neurological damage.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Deficiency

The long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, crucial for brain health, are mainly found in fatty fish and grass-fed animal products. While plant sources of omega-3 (ALA) exist, the body has difficulty converting ALA into the more useful EPA and DHA forms. Over time, vegans may experience cognitive decline, mood disorders, and inflammation due to a lack of omega-3s.

3. Iron and Zinc Depletion

While plant foods contain non-heme iron, it is far less bioavailable than the heme iron found in meat. Similarly, zinc from plant foods is less absorbable than that found in meat sources. Over time, vegans may become anemic or have a weakened immune system due to inadequate iron and zinc absorption.

The Onset of Health Issues: Autoimmune Conditions and More

After several years on a vegan diet, some individuals begin to notice a dramatic decline in their health. Often, these changes are subtle at first: low energy, brittle nails, or thinning hair. However, as nutrient deficiencies worsen, more severe health problems can arise, including the development of autoimmune conditions.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system starts attacking healthy cells, tissues, or organs, mistaking them for harmful invaders. A nutrient-deficient vegan diet may trigger or worsen autoimmune responses, as the body lacks the nutrients needed to maintain a healthy and balanced immune system. Some of the most commonly reported conditions among long-term vegans include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Gut dysbiosis and digestive disorders

Why Meat is Essential for Long-Term Health

While many of the symptoms that vegans experience are caused by nutrient deficiencies, the solution is simple: incorporating animal products back into the diet. Meat, particularly red meat, is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available, providing bioavailable sources of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that the body needs for optimal functioning.

• Vitamin B12, found exclusively in animal products, helps maintain energy levels, cognitive function, and nerve health.
• Heme iron, present in red meat, ensures proper oxygen transport and prevents anemia.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, are crucial for heart and brain health.
• Zinc and selenium, also found in meat, play key roles in immune function and hormone balance.

The Reality of Veganism: Why Many Are Returning to Animal Products

As more long-term vegans begin to experience health problems, a growing number are choosing to return to eating animal products. They often report immediate improvements in their health, including increased energy, better mental clarity, and the resolution of autoimmune symptoms. This shift has led to a growing trend of "ex-vegans" who share their stories of recovery after reintroducing meat into their diets.

In fact, the rise of ex-vegan influencers and advocates reflects the reality that, while a plant-based diet may work short-term for some, it is not sustainable for most in the long run. Replenishing the body with essential nutrients from animal sources is the key to preventing the nutrient deficiencies and autoimmune conditions that plague many long-term vegans.

Conclusion: The Fall of Veganism

The rise of veganism was built on good intentions, but as the years go by, the harsh reality of its long-term effects becomes increasingly clear. While cutting out animal products may lead to short-term health improvements, over time, the body’s reserves of essential nutrients are depleted, leading to a host of health problems, including autoimmune conditions and severe deficiencies.

The message is clear: a balanced diet that includes nutrient-dense animal products is essential for long-term health. While veganism may offer some benefits at first, its fall is inevitable for many as their bodies require the nutrients that only meat can provide. Returning to a more traditional diet, rich in red meat and other animal products, is key to restoring health and preventing chronic disease.