According to the Vegan Society, veganism can be described as a philosophy of life which excludes the exploitation of animal in any form (3). Therefore, veganism is more than a diet it’s a lifestyle (1). The vegans are a new group in society, registered as a charity in 1964, which branched out from vegetarians. The word vegan originated by using the first and last letters of vegetarian. Vegan’s do not consume diary, eggs, meat, or any products derived from animals such as leather. This is a lifestyle choice, due to ethical, environmental or health issues, or perhaps a combination of the three.

Ethical Reasons:
Ethical reasons may include the belief that all living creatures should enjoy the right to life and freedom. Although this might not be the only reason to turn towards the vegan lifestyle, it is part of their core values. Vegans therefore respect all life and continue the fight against using animals in food, clothing, or any other product.

Environmental Reasons:
Vegans are aware of their surroundings and therefore focus on living a greener life. Through avoiding animal products, they are potentially significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Because of animal agriculture impact on the environment.

Health Reasons:
Vegan diets have been linked toward various health benefits. The key towards a balanced vegan diet is to ensure your diet is well planned and includes a variety of food such as grains, fruit, nuts, and vegetables. This diet also provides the opportunity to explore various food sources and cooking styles. This diet may potentially assist in heart health, and weight loss.

Macadamias place in veganism:
Macadamias contain health benefits for vegans and non-vegans, although they are especially helpful towards vegan diets. Since they are nutrient dense, assists in reaching daily calories requirements as well as providing important nutrients. Macadamias contain an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, Vitamin E, Zinc, iron, calcium, and selenium.

Monounsaturated fats can be described as heart healthy fats, that may assist in lowering your LDL cholesterol (2). Furthermore, Vitamin E functions as an antioxidant within the human body. Therefore, neutralising free radicals that contribute towards cancer and heart diseases. The four minerals found in macadamias are also important for the human body: (i) zinc, (ii) iron, (iii) calcium, and (iv) selenium. Zinc is crucial for your metabolism, immune function, and the repair of body cells. Iron is used to create new DNA and red blood cells; it also transports oxygen in your blood. Calcium assists with strong bones and healthy teeth as well as the functioning of muscles, nerves, and heart health. Selenium assists your body with basic functions such as assisting with fighting infections as well as reproductive support. Too little Vitamin E, Zinc, iron, calcium, and selenium may lead to several health issues, please consult your health practitioner if you have any concerns.

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References:
1. Greenebaum, J., 2012. Veganism, identity and the quest for authenticity. Food, Culture & Society, 15(1), pp.129-144.
2. Griel, A.E., Cao, Y., Bagshaw, D.D., Cifelli, A.M., Holub, B. and Kris-Etherton, P.M., 2008. A macadamia nut-rich diet reduces total and LDL-cholesterol in mildly hypercholesterolemic men and women. The Journal of nutrition, 138(4), pp.761-767.
3. The Vegan Society. (2022). Why go vegan. https://www.vegansociety.com/go-vegan/why-go-vegan