Regular consumption of nuts has been associated with lower risk for heart disease and mortality. This is likely due to their favorable fatty acid profile, fiber, copper, magnesium, vitamin E, plant sterols, and various phytochemicals. Whole-grain consumption is associated with a reduced risk for heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and stomach and colon cancer. Even though a well-balanced vegan diet tends to have many advantages over the standard American diet, simply avoiding animal products will not ensure optimal health. Please see Vegan Nutrition section for more information.
Many factors affect bone health.
Exercise, calcium, and vitamin D increase bone health, while smoking and excessive amounts of sodium and protein decrease it. Broccoli, kale, and collards are naturally high in bioavailable calcium and also have large amounts of magnesium and potassium which protect bones. The human body has no more need for cows' milk than it does for dogs' milk, horses' milk, or giraffes' milk. The CDC has documented that, from 1993 to 1997, Salmonella e nteritidis accounted for the largest number of outbreaks, cases, and deaths among reported foodborne disease outbreaks for which a cause could be determined. Researchers have determined that a total vegetarian diet minimizes dietary dioxin intake.4 Antibiotics are routinely put in animal feed to promote rapid growth.