For the animals
Preventing the exploitation of animals is often one of the key factors in people making the decision to go vegan.
Having emotional attachments with animals may form part of that reason, while many believe that all sentient creatures have a right to life and freedom.
Anyone who admires or adores animals has most likely questioned whether there is any difference between the animals they care for and those that we breed and kill for food.
Specifics aside, avoiding animal products is one of the most obvious ways you can take a stand against animal cruelty and animal exploitation everywhere.
For your health
Well-planned vegan diets follow healthy eating guidelines, and contain all the nutrients that our bodies need.
Some research has linked vegan diets with lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer.
Getting your nutrients from plant foods allows more room in your diet for health-promoting options like whole grains, fruit, nuts, seeds and vegetables, which are packed full of beneficial fibre, vitamins and minerals.
For the environment
The production of meat and other animal products places a heavy burden on the environment – from crops and water required to feed the animals, to the transport and other processes involved from farm to fork.
The vast amount of grain feed required for meat production is a significant contributor to deforestation, habitat loss and species extinction.
Considerably lower quantities of crops and water are required to sustain a vegan diet.
Source: The Vegan Society