The next time someone asks you if you’re healthy without the consumption of any animal products, you can say a hearty 'Yes!' Vegan diets are extremely healthy for you, provided you consume all your essential vitamins and nutrients. Here are some diseases that vegan diets prevent:

• 1. Cardiovascular Disease

Nuts and whole grains can provide your body with heart-healthy vitamins, while skipping meat and dairy products can lower your cholesterol. Did you know cholesterol comes from animal products? Once you remove these from your diet, you will remove your cholesterol risk.

• 2. Colon Cancer 

A vegan diet can keep your colon functioning healthily. Foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables are must-haves on your 'to eat' list. A healthy colon means a lower risk of getting colon cancer.

• 3. Macular Degeneration

This is an age-related eye problem that can lead to a loss of sight, but it can be prevented by consuming a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Luckily as a vegan, this comes naturally to you! Make sure you add lots of leafy greens, carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes to your next grocery shopping list.

• 4. Osteoporosis

Although it is sometimes thought that a dairy-free diet can lead to the onset of osteoporosis or weak bones, the truth is that going vegan can actually help prevent this disease. Bone health requires not too much or too little protein, calcium, high potassium and low sodium. These can be achieved with a vegan diet.

• 5. Diabetes

Whether or not you currently have diabetes, a vegan diet can dramatically assist in either preventing or relieving the condition. Eating complex carbohydrates from grains, vegetables and fruits can help you lower your insulin resistance. You are also gaining high amounts of fibre, which is very beneficial to you.

*Image courtesy Flickr creative commons.