Extreme Diets: Beyond Veganism

Veganism is often adopted for ethical reasons, such as concern for animal welfare or the environment, or because it is considered a healthier option. Research has linked vegan diets to lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers when compared to diets high in meat and animal products. However, veganism can also be considered a restrictive diet, and there are more extreme diets that build on vegan principles. For example, some people only eat fruit that has fallen off a tree, and this is known as fruitariansm. Another example is raw veganism, where practitioners do not eat any food that has been cooked, only consuming uncooked fruits and vegetables.

While veganism has been associated with some health benefits, it is not without its risks. A vegan diet may lead to micro and macronutrient deficits, including vitamin B12 deficiency, which can have serious health consequences. Vegans also have a greater prevalence of mental health problems and are at a higher risk of certain fractures due to lower bone mineral density. Additionally, there is limited evidence that vegan diets may be linked to a higher risk of certain cancers and other health issues.

Therefore, while veganism may be considered extreme by some, there are indeed more restrictive diets that build on vegan principles and further limit food choices.

Fruitarians: those who only eat fruit that has fallen off a tree

Fruitarians are people who eat a diet consisting primarily of fruits, and possibly nuts and seeds, but without any animal products. Some fruitarians will only eat what falls (or would fall) naturally from a plant, meaning they will not eat anything that requires killing or harming the plant. This includes culinary fruits, nuts, and seeds.

A fruitarian diet is more restrictive than veganism or raw veganism, and can result in dangerous deficiencies. Nutritionists advise against this diet for children, nursing mothers, and their babies, as it can result in malnutrition and even death.

The diet is considered unsuitable for long-term adherence, as it can cause deficiencies in calcium, protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, most B vitamins (especially B12), and essential fatty acids. Vitamin B12, in particular, is a bacterial product that cannot be obtained from fruits, and a deficiency can lead to neurological and haematological problems.

The high sugar content in fruits can also lead to tooth decay, and the large amounts of sugar can negatively affect blood sugar levels, posing a risk for those with diabetes or prediabetes.

Some fruitarians eat only raw organic fruit, while others include dried or frozen fruit. Some permit nuts and seeds, grains, and leafy greens or other vegan-friendly foods.

It is extremely difficult for fruitarians to get enough protein, and they may need to include eggs, beans, or meat in their diet to meet their protein requirements.

The diet is considered a fad by experts, who warn that it could lead to malnutrition due to the exclusion of many food groups.

Raw vegans: those who eat a vegan diet but do not eat any food that has been cooked

Raw veganism is a subset of veganism that combines the principles of veganism with those of raw foodism. It excludes all animal products and foods cooked at temperatures above 104–118°F (40–48°C). The idea of eating only raw foods has been around since the middle of the nineteenth century, when it was promoted by a Presbyterian minister and dietary reformer, Sylvester Graham, as a way to avoid illness.

Raw vegans eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, sprouted grains, and legumes. Alternative preparation methods are used instead of cooking, such as juicing, blending, soaking, sprouting, and dehydrating. Some proponents believe that raw foods provide all the nutrients humans need, so supplements are often discouraged. However, a raw vegan diet without supplements can be low in vitamin B12, iodine, calcium, and vitamin D, and may provide too little protein and too few calories, leading to health issues.

There are several purported health benefits of a raw vegan diet. It may improve heart health due to its focus on fruits and vegetables, which are linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. It may also reduce the risk of diabetes, as it is rich in fiber, a nutrient linked to lower blood sugar levels and increased insulin sensitivity. A raw vegan diet may also aid weight loss and improve digestion due to its high fiber content.

However, there are also health risks associated with a raw vegan diet, especially if it is not well-planned. It may be nutritionally unbalanced, leading to deficiencies in vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D. It may also weaken muscles and bones due to its tendency to be low in protein, calcium, and vitamin D. In addition, a raw vegan diet may promote tooth decay, especially if it includes a lot of citrus fruits and berries, as these are more acidic and can cause erosion of tooth enamel.

Some specific examples of foods that raw vegans can eat include:

• Condiments like vinegar, Bragg’s Liquid Aminos, and nama shoyu (raw, unpasteurized soy sauce)
• Fermented foods, including sauerkraut, kimchi, miso paste, and coconut kefir
• Herbs and uncooked spices
• Seaweed, such as wakame, hijiki, dulse, and Irish moss
• Sprouted grains and legumes
• Avocados, nuts, and seeds as fat sources

Overall, a raw vegan diet may offer some health benefits, but it is important to ensure that it is well-planned and includes a variety of nutrient-rich plant foods to avoid potential health risks.

Level 5 vegans: those who follow a vegan diet and lifestyle, but also do not use any accessories or clothing made from animal products

Level 5 vegans are those who follow a vegan diet and lifestyle but also do not use any accessories or clothing made from animal products. They are often hailed as "extreme vegans" and go to extensive efforts to avoid any type of animal product or exploitation. This means that, in addition to following a vegan diet, they will not use accessories or clothing made from animal furs, skins, or by-products. Level 5 vegans also avoid all animal-derived products such as eggs, dairy, meat, fish, and seafood and will not consume any food products that may contain accidental traces of animal products. They also avoid products like leather, gelatin, and some food colourings.

Level 5 vegans are incredibly committed to the vegan lifestyle and are the most difficult level of vegan to achieve. They are the purest form of vegan, as they avoid all forms of animal cruelty and exploitation. This level of commitment to veganism is not always easy to maintain, and some may find it more challenging than others. For example, those who adopt a vegan diet for health reasons may be less strict with their vegan ethics, while those who are passionate about animal welfare may feel pressured to adhere to a stricter lifestyle to be considered a "true vegan". Nonetheless, the five levels of veganism are a helpful guideline to the different types of vegan lifestyles, and it is important to remember that anyone who avoids animal products to some degree can proudly call themselves a vegan.

While veganism has gained popularity in recent years, it is associated with some adverse health outcomes due to potential micro and macronutrient deficits. For example, vegans have a greater prevalence of mental health problems and are at a higher risk of nervous, skeletal, and immune system impairments, hematological disorders, and certain types of cancer. However, vegan diets are also linked to a decreased risk of cardiometabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Well-planned vegan diets that include supplements or fortified foods can help mitigate the potential negative health impacts of veganism.

Jains: those who are vegan but also do not eat anything grown underground

Jainism is based on the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, which applies to mental, physical, and verbal actions towards all living things. This means that Jains are strict vegetarians and do not eat meat, fish, or eggs.

The Jain diet also excludes root and underground vegetables such as potatoes, garlic, and onions. This is because Jains believe that consuming root vegetables involves killing an entire plant, rather than just taking one of its fruits or letting it wither. Additionally, root vegetables are said to contain infinite lives, and tiny life forms are injured when the plant is pulled from the ground.

Jains also avoid honey, as its collection would involve violence against bees, and eggs, as they have the potential to become a life. Other animal products, such as gelatin, are also prohibited.

Some Jains have also chosen to adopt a vegan diet due to the immense suffering of dairy animals and the industrialization of milk production. However, traditionally, Jainism does not limit dairy products as cows were once treated in a more humane manner on family farms.

Jain dietary practices also include choviar, or eating before sunset, as this is better for digestion, metabolism, and overall health. It is also believed that once the sun sets, more bugs are awake and could fall into food.

Models and people in the fashion industry: those who follow the ice cube and lemon water diet

Models and people in the fashion industry are often under immense pressure to look a certain way, and some may resort to extreme dieting methods to achieve or maintain their desired physique. One such method that has gained traction in recent years is the ice cube and lemon water diet. This diet involves blending whole lemons with water and freezing the mixture into ice cubes, which are then added to water. Proponents of this diet claim that it aids weight loss, improves digestion, boosts vitamin C intake, and has detoxifying effects.

The ice cube and lemon water diet is appealing to those in the fashion industry due to its perceived benefits and convenience. Models and fashion industry professionals often lead busy and unpredictable lives, and having easily accessible lemon ice cubes in their freezer can provide a quick way to add flavour to water and increase their fluid intake. Additionally, the high vitamin C content of lemons can help boost immunity, which is crucial for those who travel frequently or work long hours.

However, it is important to note that while the ice cube and lemon water diet may provide some health benefits, it should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition. A well-balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods from all food groups is essential for maintaining overall health. Restricting food intake to only ice cubes and lemon water can lead to nutritional deficiencies and adverse health effects.

For those in the fashion industry who are considering the ice cube and lemon water diet, it is recommended to use it as a supplement to a balanced diet rather than as a replacement. Adding lemon ice cubes to water can be a great way to stay hydrated, boost vitamin C intake, and support weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Additionally, consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before starting any new diet is always advisable to ensure it is safe and appropriate for one's individual needs.

While the ice cube and lemon water diet may provide some health benefits, it is important to remember that extreme dieting methods are not sustainable or healthy in the long term. A balanced and varied diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being, especially in the demanding and fast-paced fashion industry.

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