We can treat eating disorders and honor vegan dietary wishes

As a lifestyle medicine physician in Salida, I support the legislation proposed in Colorado that would provide further oversight of eating disorder clinics.

Among other things, Senate Bill 117 would require clinics to respect the “dietary ethics” of patients, including their ethical choices to not consume animals.

Requiring a vegan to consume animal products is a violation of their bodily autonomy. At its core, it is discrimination against an individual’s nonreligious belief.

Forcing a person to transgress their philosophical principles can cause trauma.

Despite what some may claim, practicing veganism does not consistently increase the risk of developing eating disorders.

Although the data is mixed, most studies show no association, and some show a protective effect of veganism.

Additionally, veganism is a philosophy rather than a restrictive eating pattern.

The reasons people choose not to consume animal products extend far beyond their diet. Animal welfare concerns are a significant motivation behind following a vegan or vegetarian diet for those in the typical eating-disorder demographic.

Finally, weight can be gained healthfully on a vegan diet. Although plant-based diets often are used as a tool for weight loss because of their low caloric density, when planned appropriately, they also can be used to assist with weight gain.

This can be achieved by focusing on more calorie-dense vegan foods, such as nuts and nut butters, avocados and tofu.

There is no sound reason to force patients to compromise their ethics, even those suffering from eating disorders. — Kim Scheuer, Salida