WHAT HAPPENS WHEN...

...you go vegan

1 HUNGER GAMES

Come 3pm, that meat-eating mate may be trolling you, but you’ll have already started reaping the rewards. Vegans tend to have lower bloodsugar levels and a lower risk of type-2 diabetes. Plus, plant protein is linked with improved insulin regulation, meaning you’re less likely to reach for the biscuit tin for a midafternoon boost.

2 B WISE

‘But where do you get your protein?’ Bore off – ever heard of chickpeas? That said, be aware that some nutrients are harder to come by on a vegan diet, such as vitamin B12. It isn’t produced by plants, so the Vegan Society recommends taking a 10mcg supplement daily. Alternatively, get it via fortified cereals and alt-milk products, including soy, oat and almond.

3 GUT FEELING

Sans meat and fish, you’ll probably be chowing down on much more fibre than the average omnivore – and your stomach will thank you for it. ‘Your gut microbes’ favourite nutrient is dietary fibre, which plant-based foods are packed with,’ says Dr Megan Rossi (@theguthealthdoctor). ‘A diet rich in these has been shown to keep weight in check and boost your mood, too.’ #Plantbased and thriving.

4 SHELF LIFE

Loading up on fruit and vegetables will sustain you in the (really) long term, cutting your risk of heart disease by up to 42%. Multiple studies show that vegan diets are also more effective than typical Western ones (think: beige) at lowering cholesterol levels. There’s even evidence to suggest a plant-based diet could help ease arthritis. Bone-us.

5 GRAIN GAINS

Building muscle? Listen up. ‘Vitamin D helps to regulate calcium in the body – a lack of both can lead to issues with bone density and muscle weakness,’ says PT Abigail Dewberry. This can be a risk if you’re cutting out dairy. ‘Regardless of your training goals, make sure you’re getting enough of these nutrients – from pulses, dried fruit and fortified alt-milks.’ D-lightful.