Why go vegan? For some, it's about health: Your Say

Robert Atcheson, a former police captain, became a vegan after researching the health benefits of the diet (“Real men don’t eat meat: Column”). Comments from Facebook are edited for clarity and grammar:

Good for Robert Atcheson. Despite people who ridicule the idea, I’ve been vegan for 20 years. It’s the best decision I ever made. More people are waking up to the fact that meat and dairy are unhealthy. It’s your choice to eat animal products. I’m just glad I don’t.

— Murray Passarieu

Vegans still have to be careful because there are other health issues specific to that lifestyle. One challenge I had in trying to be vegan was the lack of essential fatty acids that are crucial to our brain health. Vegans reduce cancer, heart disease and diabetes for sure.

— W.w. Wagner

I’d rather live a shorter life doing things I enjoy. Being in your own little prison is no way to live.

— Josh Homer

I am finally healthy, too, because I went vegan. I spent 15 years struggling with heart issues and my blood sugar level until I decided to change my life. I’m cleared by my cardiologist and family doctor now.

— Christi Burns

I still eat meat and animal products, but in moderation. And I put more focus on poultry and fish, and less on red meat. Veganism doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be cancer free.

— Jim Michaud

This definitely crushes the stereotype that only tree-huggers are vegan. Anyone can be vegan! Way to go!

— Kassy Ortega