The veganism movement was started in 1944 by Donald Watson with the founding of the vegan society. It is a lifestyle that is based on strict vegetarianism, the avoidance of all products derived from animals including milk and eggs.

A varied vegetarian diet consisting of vegetables, whole grains, fruits and legumes results in reduced blood pressure and blood cholesterol, and helps in weight loss. Risks of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes and cancer are also lower. There is also freedom from the contaminants, hormones and chemicals which often find their way into animal products.

Despite its health benefits, veganism has some drawbacks as well. Vegans (Adherents of veganism) often suffer from deficiency of essential vitamins and nutrients that are usually obtained from animal products such as  calcium, iodine, omega 3 fatty acids and the vitamins B12 and D. Deficiency of these can cause bone diseases, hyperthyroidism and anaemia.

Proper planning can help a vegan avoid the ill-effects of a strictly vegetarian diet while enjoying its benefits. Nutrients that are generally lacking in plant-based vegan diets may be obtained through supplements, fortified foods and foods rich in the required nutrients. 15 minutes of daily sunlight exposure (Or supplements/fortified foods in winter) can provide vitamin D, while calcium may be gotten from fortified soymilk or dark green vegetables such as kale and spring greens. Vitamin B12 can be obtained via fortified soymilk and cereals or multivitamins, and iodine through iodised salt or kelp. Lastly, flaxseed oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids for vegans.