Going vegan is good for the planet. But is it good for you?
We still can’t tell for sure if a vegan diet is healthier. Representational image. | Philippe Huguen / AFP
While there are many reasons why a person may choose to go vegan, health is often cited as a popular motive. But although vegan diets are often touted as being “healthier” in the media, this is not always reflected by scientific research.
While some research has shown that vegan diets have positive health effects, such as lower risks of heart disease, diabetes and diverticular disease, our recent study also showed that vegans may have a higher risk of fractures, and vegans and vegetarians combined may have a higher risk of haemorrhagic stroke.