V is for Veganism – A Philosophy, Not Just a Diet. More than tofu—it’s a worldview.

I have long been bothered by the contradiction between the practice of veganism and the reality of the actual damage to the sentient creatures that vegans claim to protect. Veganism is rooted in the principle that animals have a right to live free from human exploitation. Vegans reject the idea that animals exist for human use—whether for food, clothing, entertainment, or research, challenging the hierarchy that places human needs above all else. Veganism argues that avoiding all animal products will reduce harm and suffering. Veganism also critiques the systems behind animal agriculture by linking factory farming to climate change, deforestation, and water pollution. I understand opposition to factory farming. But it’s not easy or inexpensive to find free range chickens or cattle.

Veganism aims to minimize harm to animals, but there’s a contradiction when it comes to plant-based agriculture. Growing crops especially grains, legumes, and vegetables at scale——inevitably harms small animals like insects, rodents, and birds through land clearing, pesticide use, and the machinery of harvesting. Even organic farming isn’t free from this impact. So while vegans avoid direct consumption of animal products, their diets still depend on systems that cause unintentional harm to countless critters. This contradiction challenges the idea of a perfectly harm-free lifestyle. It’s inconsistent to reject eating a cow while accepting a farming process that kills mice and insects. Some vegans acknowledge this and focus simply on reducing harm as much as possible

While plant-based diets can be nutrient-rich, veganism isn’t about macros or micronutrients. It’s a value system. Vegans may become deficient in key nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and protein resulting in fatigue, weakened immunity, bone loss, and cognitive problems over time. Many experience digestive problems from the high fiber content in plant-based foods. Relying heavily on processed vegan substitutes—like fake meats and sugary snacks—can further undermine health. A well-balanced vegan diet takes effort, knowledge, and supplementation to avoid negative outcomes.

3 Easy Action Steps:

1. Before you commit, explore plant-based eating by trying a few days of vegan eating.
2. On long term vegan eating, supplement with B12, DHA/EPA, and iron if needed.
3. Veganism is a philosophical choice, not a competition. Understand the impact of your choices.

Action Steps

Schedule a One-on-One talk with Dr. Gillian Lockitch to discuss healthy longevity.
Follow the Growing Older Living Younger podcast and find past episodes that resonate with your life journey

Please comment on this post and leave a link to your blog or podcast if you have one.