Is becoming a vegan good or bad for your health?

Recent statistics have revealed that the number of vegans in the UK has rocketed by 360% over the past decade. Currently, around half a million over-15s are enjoying a vegetable-only diet. There are certainly benefits, as much of the foodstuffs that are taken - whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes - are very low in fat (especially saturated fats) and do not contain cholesterol. There are huge health benefits from avoiding fats. In addition, vegan diets are high in fibre and other nutrients. However, it is worth underlining the downside to becoming a vegan.

Humans are not omnivorous by chance. Thousands of years of evolution have proved that a mixed diet of animals and plants has worked best. The following nutrients can only be found in meat: Vitamin B12 (a water soluble vitamin involved in the function of every cell, particularly the formation of blood and the functionality of the brain), Vitamin C, Creatine, Carnosine (an antioxidant concentrated in the muscles and brain, Vitamin D3, Docosahexaenoic Acid, Heme-iron, Taurine, and many others.

Animal protein contains amino acids that are extremely important for muscle mass and bone health, and much besides. Vegans don't get animal protein, which can have a detrimental impact on body composition. Carnosine protects the body against degenerative processes, and research is underway to determine the extent to which it may protect against ageing. Even the substances most demonised by vegans - saturated fat and cholesterol - are important for human health. The latter is a fundamental molecule in our bodies and forms part of every cell membrane, while scientific analysis has revealed that saturated fat intake boosts testosterone levels.

There is much debate about whether or not a vegan diet is ultimately good or bad for your health. There is little evidence about vegans having a better longevity. The likelihood is that people choosing to eat a stricter diet are focusing on health aspects, so will be less likely to smoke, and will take more exercise. Given the vitamins present in meat, avoiding animal foods has as many cons as pros.