Many people talk about the physical benefits of going vegan, as well as the environmental benefits. These are very important to consider, but don’t forget about your own mental health! Emotional and mental benefits are not often talked about, but just might be what helps you to stick with this way of eating and stay motivated to see it through long-term.
Reduce Stress About Dieting
Do you know what happens when you switch to a new way of eating and no longer have to yo-yo diet? You lose a lot of that diet stress. By committing to a plant-based diet, you will soon discover that you can naturally maintain your weight just by sticking to a whole, plant-based diet. No more counting calories or carbs, or going on an extremely restricting diet. As long as everything you eat is fresh, plant-based food, you don’t have to worry too much about what you are eating. Of course, there are always exceptions, but more often than not, all that crazy diet stress goes right out the window.
Studies Have Shown a Reduction in Anxiety
There have been studies that look at the mental health of people on prolonged vegan or plant-based diets, and found something amazing – it really helps with your anxiety, mood swings, and stress levels. This can be from any number of things, from no longer eating hormones that were in the meat you were eating, to mood stabilization from reducing dairy and having many more vitamins and minerals thanks to all the veggies and whole grains. You probably eat far less packaged, frozen, and processed food now as well, which can definitely help with your mood and reduced mental health issues.
You Feel Healthier All-Around
Don’t rule out the benefit of just feeling better and healthier all around. Being on a plant-based diet can help with a lot of your gut issues, especially if you had an allergy to certain meat or shellfish, or to dairy, which is very common. You won’t be as bloated anymore not having all that milk in your body.
Many people also notice that their mental health and confidence improve because they know all the benefits of being on a vegan diet. You understand the health benefits for yourself and the environment, and your morals are no longer in question every time you eat an animal-based product. This can do wonders for your own mental health and wellness.