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A vegan lifestyle may increase the risk of developing blood clots and atherosclerosis, according to an article in Science News.
After a review of studies of vegetarianism, the authors of the peer-reviewed article conclude that vegan diets (no meat or animal product of any kind) tend to lack iron, zinc, B12 and several fatty acids. All of these are found at relatively high levels in meat, compared to vegetarian foods.
Fatty acids, specifically omega-3s influence the ratio of LDL:HDL cholesterol. Contrary to widely held beliefs, cholesterol is necessary. it is a component of cell membranes and many hormones. A 2-minute search on Amazon reveals numerous titles on the emerging realization that fat is not the enemy. The Westin A Price Foundation has been promoting healthy fat for a long time.
Extreme diets of any kind, from vegan to no grain, are inherently unbalanced. We are omnivores, and our bodies depend on food from a variety of sources.
The professor/philospher in me is compelled to make the following observation: Any practice taken to an extreme, or adhered to as a dogma, produces imbalance. This is the philosophy we follow at when producing beef, in our spiritual practice and our diet.