Dear Dr. Narda ~
I’m growing more and more concerned about the quality of the food I feed my family (including my husband and two teenage daughters). Up until now, the mainstay of our protein intake has been chicken because of health concerns about beef and fish. Recently, though, I see that chicken purchased in the U.S. may have come from China, and it seems that even food safety experts are worried now about recent trade deals. Would it be safe to avoid animal products altogether and switch to a plant-based diet? Signed, Cannot Stomach Meat Much Any More!
Dear Cannot Stomach ~
You are right to be concerned, and the known health benefits of a vegan diet are plentiful. It will require some reading to ensure a smooth transition, but with so many non-meat options now available in regular supermarkets, there’s really little excuse to risk eating animal products when a plant-based diet is less onerous on the planet and better for you! Here are some resources to point you in the right direction:
Health effects of vegan diets. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Vegetarian and vegan diets. Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine.
How to go vegan. `People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.