Can Vegans be Athletic?

The short answer to this question is yes. But if you're like most people, you probably want to know why and how. This statement seems to go against everything you've been taught. You need animal protein to exercise, right? It may surprise you, but you don't. In fact many people feel better when they exercise on a vegan diet. Take Christine Frietchen for example. She reports having more energy, losing weight, and being able to run faster after switching her diet. Of course there are many factors that contribute to someone's energy levels, weight, and athletic endurance, but diet does play a role.


Can you get the protein you need? Absolutely. Nuts, soy products, beans, and grains are among those on the list. The only nutrient you miss on a plant-based diet is vitamin B12, but you can easily take a supplement. A vegan diet also supplies you with enough calories for exercise as well. Most vegans also eat smaller meals throughout the day to get the calories they need. This is also better for your metabolism as well- which could help with weight loss.


Of course switching to a vegan diet doesn't automatically mean you're healthier or will lose weight if you're not eating a mostly plant-based diet. On average, vegans and vegetarians weigh less than their meat-eating counterparts, but you can be unhealthy and vegan. Oreos are vegan and are certainly not healthy. Like any other diet, you can choose to be an unhealthy or healthy vegan. It is important to mostly consume vegetables, fruits, nuts, and beans if you're wanting to be healthier. If you're eating Oreos all day, you can't expect to be healthier and lose weight (if that's your goal). I can't imagine that that would give you much energy for exercise either.


Many people such as Scott Jurek advocate for a vegan diet for athletes. Jurek also wrote a book on his journey of becoming a long distance runner fueled on a vegan diet. Even if you're not wanting to become super athletic, but more fit, you can benefit from a vegan diet. Some would say to go completely vegan overnight, while others would advocate for slowly cutting out animal products. Personally, I believe everyone should do what they feel comfortable when switching your diet. But it's worth a shot, right?


Some good resources:
Vegkitchen.com
Protein Intake
Advice for new vegans
Scott Jurek