It's easy to talk about how humans need to eat meat and dairy to thrive — how animal-based foods contain essential nutrients not found in plants and how being vegan can lead to all kinds of vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

The industrialized production of animal products causes enormous harm to animals, the environment and humans. Vegans seek to mitigate this destruction by choosing not to purchase or consume these products. Our society isn't structured in a way that prioritizes animal or environmental welfare.

Veganism means you give up foods that cause animal cruelty. It's great for the planet and your health, too. But it may cause nutrient deficiencies. Plus, increased demand for certain crops affects their supply and raises their prices.