Prologue

The vegan diet is frequently referred to as the medicinal or therapeutic diet, because this
natural and benevolent category of food is endowed with a wealthy spectrum of compounds,
which scientists and nutritionists have established to constitute excellent components in
maintaining and enhancing the bodys overall vitality and welfare. The vegan diet embodies
such an excellent range of beneficial elements, which not only offer the body protection
from diseases, but also serve as powerful organic medicine for remedying certain illnesses.
A vegan diet is an exclusively plant-based diet, strictly devoid of all directly and indirectly
derived animal products and ingredients.
Dietary components of an organic vegan diet are very much in harmony with nature.
Consequently, these food components can harness the maximum amount of natural vital
force and nutritional essence from the ecosystem, which are impeccable in offering us
excellent physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. Considering that a plant-based
diet is lowest on the food-chain, its nutritional value is still intact by the time it is
consumed; thus boosting the bodys health, vitality and defence mechanism.
The immune system is the bodys natural disease-fighting mechanism; which can be viewed
as the ministry of defence for the body; offering it protection from pathogenic invasions and
other dangerous infectious agents. The multitude of medicinal components contained in the
vegan diet supply the highest degree of strength to the immune system; thereby ensuring
that all infectious foreign agents are demolished with an impressive degree of sustained
tenacity. The vegan diet can also neutralise or eliminate any disease-causing toxic
substances present in the system, hence restoring the physiological integrity of the body.
The vegan diet has acquired an authoritative scientific reputation for its capacity to offer
the body protection from ailments such as heart diseases, stroke, cancers, diabetes mellitus,
high blood pressure, obesity and more. In the event where these conditions are already in
occurrence, the vegan diet can diminish their gravity, or even occasion their reversal; as has
been testified by numerous heart patients. By taking advantage of the medicinal and
nutritional generosity of a vegan diet, one can timelessly enjoy the priceless wealth of
health.
Therefore, this book provides a concise and vivid revelation of the proven nutritional and
medicinal merits of a vegan diet, for perfect health, longevity and life-long happiness.
 The Health Miracles of a Vegan Diet
Let Your Food be Your Medicine

Emmanuel Ebah

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By Emmanuel Ebah

Copyright 2013 Emmanuel Ebah

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 The meaning of a vegan diet
Mother earth is uniquely God-privileged to abound in deliciously nutritious succulent
vegetables, exquisitely juicy and highly vitalising fresh fruits, irresistibly delightful nuts and
incredibly tasty nourishing grains. This class of food is dietetically referred to as fruits and
vegetables, and has been scientifically proven to be the purest, healthiest and most
wholesome of all categories of food consumed by humans. Indeed, the exceptional high
nutritional content of fruits and vegetables render them ideal nourishment that sustains and
enhances our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual welfare; giving rise to a healthier,
happier and more peaceful life. Someone who adheres exclusively to a plant-based diet,
entirely devoid of all directly and indirectly derived animal products is called a vegan.
In essence, an organic vegan is someone who strictly, unconditionally and permanently
observes an exclusively plant-centred diet, in absolute avoidance of all dietary products
directly or indirectly derived from the killing or harming of any living creature(sentient
being); or for which pain was inflicted upon such a creature in the course of deriving such
nourishment. A living creature is conceived to imply any species that is endowed with life, is
experiencing that life; and is sensitive to pain; nor matter the form such pain may assume.
An organic vegan diet thus comprises such dietary articles as fruits, vegetables, legumes,
seeds, grains, nuts, tubers, and all other food items that are directly and indirectly derived
exclusively from plants; including certain species of fungi, such as mushrooms. An organic
vegan diet sternly excludes all dietary products directly or indirectly derived from the killing
or otherwise harming of any sentient being; such as animals, fish, poultry and other species
of birds; insects, worms, amphibians, reptiles and indeed any living creature that is
susceptible to pain and has the instinct to live. This generally includes all creatures under
the biological and taxonomical classification of animalia or metazoan.
The concept of vegetarianism/veganism embraces a wider scope, to encompass not only
strict observance of an organic vegan diet, but also how the production and consumption of
such food can effectively and substantially contribute towards the preservation and
enhancement of the ecological and socio-economic welfare of the milieu where such
production and consumption is taking effect. For instance, it has been scientifically
established that the production of organic vegan food is resource-maximising, sustains the
environment, contributes towards alleviating world hunger, and enhances the health of the
populace.
The organic vegan diet and the wider concept of veganism can be traced as far back as
antiquity, since the dawn of time, at the very incipience of human spiritual career on earth.
By the biological constitution of our digestive structure and the moral requisite for a pure
spiritual life, the organic vegan diet depicts the unravelled natural option of God-endorsed
wholesome nourishment for humans; as such, the birth of the organic vegan diet is perfectly
entwined with the very birth of humanity itself, on the planet earth. See, for instance, the
following books on the history of vegetarianism:
-The heretic feast: A history of vegetarianism by Colin Spencer.
-The Bloodless Revolution: A Cultural History of Vegetarianism From 1600 to Modern Times,
is a history of the vegetarian movement in Western and Eastern societies, by Tristram
Stuart.
A human specimen is a multi-dimensional entity comprising the physical, emotional, mental
and spiritual facets. The welfare of each of these facets of the human specimen is impacted
upon by the food humans consume. The organic vegan diet exerts such influence for good,
while a meat-centred diet does so for woe. A rsum of the impact of food on each of these
facets now follows:

The vegan diet offers protection from heart diseases

The heart is served by oxygen-rich blood which flows through the coronary arteries into the
heart muscle. A situation can arise, whereby the artery that supplies this oxygen-rich blood
to a particular section of the heart muscle is blocked, thus depriving that part of the heart
muscle oxygen. When this occurs, that particular section of the heart muscle would die,
unless blood flow to it is restored in a prompt and effective manner.
The occurrence of heart attacks is more often triggered by coronary heart disease (CHD),
also known as artery disease. Coronary artery disease is a scenario in which a waxy
substance known as plague (plak), builds up inside the coronary arteries, a condition known
as atherosclerosis. In certain instances, an area of plaque inside the artery can rupture,
resulting in the formation of blood clot on the surface of the plague. If the clot is
sufficiently large, it can prevent the flow of oxygen-rich blood through the coronary artery.
In this situation, the portion of the heart muscle served by that artery is deprived of oxygen.
This deprivation causes that portion of the heart muscle to die, unless the situation is timely
and effectively remedied.
A less frequent cause of heart attack is a severe spasm or tightening of a heart artery. Heart
failure is a situation whereby the heart becomes unable to pump adequate blood to fulfil the
bodys needs.
Since the 1960s, scientific investigators of diet-health implications had contemplated the
possibility of a connection between perpetual meat consumption and coronary artery
ailments, such as heart attacks; for instance, in 1961, the journal of the American Medical
Association stated: Ninety to ninety-seven percent of heart diseases can be prevented by a
vegetarian diet. A meat-centred diet is associated with cholesterol and saturated fats,
which are deposited in the arteries that convey blood to the heart. A considerable
accumulation of this cholesterol and saturated fats can occasion coronary artery diseases
and consequently, a heart attack. Meanwhile a vegan diet is low in cholesterol and saturated
fats; and is thus naturally conducive for a healthy heart. The vegan diet is rich in fibre,
which is a favourable condition for a healthy heart. Fibres naturally occur in vegetables,
legumes and grains. Fruits and vegetables contain abundance of nutrients which favour a
healthy heart. These include leafy greens and fruits that are high in vitamin C and other
antioxidants; all offering protection against heart diseases.

The vegan diet offers protection from stroke

A stroke or brain attack occurs when a blood clot is formed in an artery which transports
blood from the heart to the rest of the body. A stroke can also occur when a blood vessel
breaks, interrupting the flow of blood from the heart to a particular area of the brain. When
this particular area of the brain is deprived of blood, brain cells in the area begin to die,
which then results in brain damage. When brain cells die in this particular area of the brain,
the activities and abilities that are controlled by that area of the brain are lost. These
abilities include speech, movement and memory. Again, a diet rich in animal products with
saturated fats and cholesterol increases the risk of blood clots in arteries; and thus
constitutes a serious risk factor for the occurrence of stroke.
A recent study from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, demonstrated that
consuming an unprocessed gluten-free vegan diet containing grains, significantly reduces the
biomarkers preceding the occurrence of strokes. Such a diet considerably lowers body mass
index, as well as the overall level of bad cholesterol; and raises antiPC antibodies, which are
considered vital in preventing heart disease and stroke.
A typical vegan diet with a rich blend of leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits,
spices, herbs and other assorted food items such as olive oil, is very high in anti-oxidants,
lignans, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other healthy and necessary nutrients.
Such a diet is also highly anti-inflammatory. An inflammatory diet exerts excess stress on the
body, thus creating an environment highly conducive for the formation of plague in blood
vessels as well as blood clots.
An inflammatory diet is usually high in sugar, refined grains, low quality dairy products,
fried foods, processed meat, additives, artificial flavourings, and other denatured or
unnatural foods. Such a diet should be avoided at all cost, if one is serious about preventing
stroke.
A nutrient-rich vegan diet designed to prevent stroke should also be low in glycemic. This
implies that the diet should contain low levels of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates in the
diet should also be of the slow-release category, such as those found in legumes, many
fruits, and numerous starchy vegan food items.
There are numerous other vegan dietary articles which are very powerful in the prevention
of strokes. One of such food items is garlic. This medicinal food item is rich in anti-coagulant
compounds, which play a critical role in preventing clotting. More so, garlic produces a
blood thinning effect. Carrot is equally powerful in preventing the occurrence of stroke.
Carrots are rich in vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene and other cartenoids. Vitamin A is
critical in stroke prevention. A study conducted by Harvard University demonstrated that
those who consumed five servings of carrots a week, are 68% less likely to suffer from
stroke; unlike those who consumed carrots less than twice a month.

The vegan diet offers protection from high blood pressure

Blood pressure denotes the pressure of blood in the circulatory system. Blood pressure is
usually measured for diagnostic purposes, since it is closely related to the force and rate of
the heartbeat; and also with the diameter and elasticity of the arterial walls. High blood
pressure is a situation whereby the blood pressure in the circulatory system exceeds the
standard blood pressure for normal health. High blood pressure is occasioned by the
accumulation of saturated fats and cholesterol in the arteries and veins that traffic blood in
the body. When the blood pressure in the body is higher than normal, additional strain is
placed on the heart muscle that pumps this blood. Such a situation can prompt
cardiovascular diseases, strokes and kidney malfunction. Processed meats contain high levels
of sodium and nitrates. Sodium can raise blood pressure and thus, also increases the risk of
stroke and heart diseases. Nitrates may damage blood vessels and are associated with insulin
response. Studies reveal that vegans suffer much less from high blood pressure than their
meat-eating counterparts. Vegan food items rich in potassium offer protection from high
blood pressure. Organic vegan products abundant in potassium include legumes, spinach,
bananas, orange juice and tomato juice.

The vegan diet offers protection from obesity

Obesity is a condition whereby an individual has an abnormally high and unhealthy
proportion of body fat. Researchers measure obesity using a scale known as body mass index
(BMI). BMI is calculated by dividing the square of a persons weight (in kilograms) by the
square of the individuals height (in metres). BMI provides a more reliable measure of
obesity or being overweight. In concurrence with the British Medical Association (1986),
vegans exhibit a lower degree of obesity than meat-eaters. This partially rests on grounds
that the vegan diet embodies a lower level of saturated fats and cholesterol, unlike a meat-
rich diet, which is abundant in cholesterol and saturated fats.
In 2008, the World Health Organisation (WHO) stated that approximately 1.4 billion adults
worldwide are overweight. In the year 2000, it came to light that the number of worldwide
overweight adults exceeded the number of underweight adults. This development was
rather unprecedented; and provided a clear indication that obesity is on the rise.
The consumption of a meat-centred diet high in cholesterol and saturated fats is a major
risk factor for obesity. Sources of saturated fats include meat products such as sausages and
pies, butter, ghee, lard, diary products such as cheese, cream, sour cream, ice cream,
chocolate products, cakes, biscuits, pastries, eggs, animal fats etc.
Most people are familiar with the adage that you are what you eat. The veracity of this
adage is as solid today as it was millions of years ago. The physical body is made up of a
multitude of tiny cells. The body produces new cells regularly. These cells go through the
process of birth, maturity and then old age. These aged or worn out cells must be replaced
by new cells. The food we consume, especially protein, is broken down and ultimately
becomes the cells of the body. In their book titled: Poison in your body, Steven Null et. al.
stated: The animals are kept alive and fattened by continuous administration of
tranquilisers, hormones, antibiotics and 2,700 other drugs. The process starts even before
birth and continues long after death. Although these drugs will still be in the meat when
you eat it, the law does not require that they be listed on the package. When we consume
meat and other animal products containing such a frightfully high level of dangerous
chemicals, they form intoxicants in our system. Intoxicant briefly means poison. Therefore,
these toxic products quickly ruin our health and disable our system. They mutate the normal
physiological processes in the body; and precipitate numerous diseases. They unnecessarily
inflate body weight and give rise to obesity, which then increases the risk of heart diseases,
strokes and cancers.

The vegan diet offers protection from cancers

Cancer is said to have occurred, when abnormal cells develop in a particular part of the
body; and multiply in an uncontrollable manner, resulting in the formation of a malignant
tumour, which is known as cancer.
The human body is made up of billions of small biological units known as cells. A group of
cells which perform the same biological function in the body is known as tissue. All the
organs in the body are made up of cells. Cells generally have a limited lifespan. Hence, at
some point in time, cells usually decline to old age. When cells are stroke by old age, they
naturally die; and are then disposed of by the appropriate biological processes, charged with
eliminating old, dead or worn out cells. When old cells die, and are disposed of by the
relevant biological processes, they are naturally replaced by newly formed cells. Thus, for
every organ in the body, there is a continuous process by which old dead discarded cells
are replaced by newly formed cells. This process ensures that the quantity and quality of
cells in that organ remain intact at all times, for the perfect health of the individual. Each
cell in any organ contains genetic material or DNA, which can be regarded as the heart or
soul of that cell. The formation of new cells to replace old, dead and disposed cells occurs
in this genetic material or DNA.
In certain instances, the natural process by which old dead cells are replaced by newly
formed cells goes wrong. When this happens, old cells dont die as normally should be the
case, while new cells are formed when the organ does not require them. The reason why
new cells are formed is for them to replace old cells. However, in this abnormal situation,
new cells are formed while the old cells are not yet dead. This implies that the space which
is supposed to be occupied by newly formed cells is still being occupied by old cells. This
therefore results in a buildup of extra cells in the organ. These extra cells then manifest
themselves as a lump or tumour, which is called cancer.
Meat-eaters are more prone to cancer than vegans. For over two decades, scientific
investigations continually reveal a very strong connection between meat consumption and
cancer of the breast, colon, uterus, etc. For instance, a study conducted on seven days
Adventists in Massachusetts divulged that vegans are less susceptible to cancer than their
meat-eating counterparts. The vegan diet is abundant in fibre, fruits, vegetables and
legumes, which serve as natural inhibitors for the propagation of cancer cells in the body.
The famous scientist, Rollo Russell, submitted a report titled: The causation of cancer; in
which he noted: I have found of twenty-five nations eating flesh largely, nineteen had a
high cancer rate and only one had a low rate, and that of thirty-five nations eating little or
no flesh, none had a high rate.
A diet high in animal fat, especially the carcinogens found in cooked red meat, and the fat-
soluble hormones found in milk from cows, enormously intoxicates the system. According to
Arthur Upton, former Director of The National Cancer Institute in the USA, both breast
cancer and colon cancer have been generally associated with the level of consumption of
animal fat.
According to fresh compelling data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer
and Nutrition (EPIC) study, participants who ate the most red meat and processed meat
increased their risk of dying by 14% and 44% respectively; compared to those who ate the
least. Also, The National Cancer Institute in the USA found that women who consumed one
or more servings of high-fat dairy products per day, were at a 49% increased risk of dying
from breast cancer. Therefore, there is a positive correlation between the consumption of
animal products and cancer infection. A Harvard Medical School study of more than 90,000
women revealed that the women who ate the most meat were nearly twice as likely to
develop breast cancer as those who did not eat much meat.
Approximately 30-40% of all cancers can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle and a well
informed diet. Protective elements in a cancer-preventive diet include selenium (Brazil
nuts), folic acid (leafy greens), vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E,
phytochemicals, dietary fibre, chlorophyll and antioxidants such as carotenoids (alpha-
carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, cryptoxanthin). Vegan diets that are low in
protein can be expected to lower elevated serum lipid levels, promote weight loss, and
lessen circulating IGF-I activity, which are all protective factors against cancer. Intake of
flax seed, especially its lignan fraction, and abundant portions of fruits and vegetables, will
lower the risk of cancer. Allium and cruciferous vegetables are especially beneficial, with
broccoli sprouts being the densest source of sulforophane. Ascorbic acid has limited benefits
orally, but could be very beneficial intravenously. Consume whole food soy products
regularly, such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, roasted soy nuts, soy milk and miso.
Studies have uncovered that fruits and vegetables contain a wide variety of compounds that
protect the body from developing cancer. The secret is to consume the widest possible
selection of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. Examples of powerful cancer fighting
fruits and vegetables include cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels
sprout, cauliflower; dark leafy green vegetables such as collards, kale, spinach; fruits such
as tomatoes, berries, carrots etc. Enrich your fruits and vegetables variety to include those
that offer the body important cancer fighting compounds such as fibres, carotenoids,
phytochemicals and other antioxidants; vitamins A, D, C and E.

The vegan diet offers protection from type 2 diabetes

Vegans are less susceptible to diabetes mellitus than their meat-eating counterparts,
especially type 2 diabetes mellitus. In fact, non-insulin dependent diabetes can be
ameliorated with a well coursed vegan diet, because such a diet is favourable to glucose
tolerance, and this can then enable the control of blood sugar levels. Vegan diets most likely
contain complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre, which favourably impact upon
carbohydrate metabolism, with the enhanced feasibility for lessening blood sugars.
The Adventist Health Study 2, which is a study that measured rates of diabetes in vegans,
found them to be 60% less likely to develop the disease than non-vegans. This conclusion was
reached after two years of follow-up. Previously, a cross-sectional report from the Adventist
Health Study-2 showed that vegans have a 68% lower rate of diabetes than non-vegans. A
number of clinical trials have now shown that a vegan diet can lower body weight, reduce
blood sugar, and improve other parameters for type 2 diabetes. Fruits and vegetables were
found to contribute to a low rate of type 2 diabetes, due to their low energy density, low
glycemic load, and high fibre and macronutrient content. Other features of the vegan diet
include whole grains and legumes. These foods have been proven to improve glycemic
control, slow the rate of carbohydrate absorption and the risk of diabetes.

The vegan diet offers protection from Alzheimers Disease

Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible brain disorder that gives rise to memory loss,
personality changes, and an overall decline in cognitive function. The disease does not
constitute a feature of the aging process.
Studies tend to suggest that Alzheimer's disease, like heart disease and strokes, is linked to
saturated fat, cholesterol and toxins found in meat and dairy products. Studies have shown
that people who consume meat and dairy products have a higher risk of developing
Alzheimer's disease than vegans. In contrast, the protective properties of chemicals
commonly found in plants, such as antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, are vital in lowering
the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Studies also reveal that diets high in animal fats are associated with the highest rate of
Alzheimer's disease occurrence. In fact, people who consume large quantities of saturated
fats, such as those found in meat and dairy products, are twice more likely to develop
Alzheimer's disease. Saturated fats are also known to increase blood cholesterol levels; and
elevated cholesterol levels have been implicated in the development of Alzheimer's disease.
In a 21-year aging study, investigators examined the association of total cholesterol levels
with brain plaques and tangles in deceased study participants. A strong correlation was
found between increased cholesterol levels and increase in the number of plaques and
tangles in the brain. These plaques and tangles constitute the two main characteristics of
Alzheimer's disease.
It has also long been hypothesised that nerve-cell death such as that found in Alzheimer's
patients, is caused by highly reactive molecules called free radicals. Brain damage from free
radicals can build up over time, leading to severe mental impairment. This free-radical
damage has been observed in the brains of Alzheimer's patients; and may be the key to the
development of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which are the two main
neuropathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease.
Luckily, a diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, can provide an abundance of
antioxidants that can help prevent Alzheimer's disease. Antioxidants, including vitamin C,
vitamin E, beta carotene, and selenium, can counteract the damaging effects of free
radicals in the brain and throughout the body; as well as help lower cholesterol levels. These
powerful natural chemicals are found in vegetables, fruits, grains and beans. Plants are rich
in antioxidants that have been shown to counter the brain-damaging effects of free radicals.

Other health benefits of a vegan diet

Scientific studies strongly suggest that the adoption of a vegan diet can be immensely
instrumental in combating and preventing renal ailments. Some vegan dietary articles are
abundant in certain proteins; and as such, embody the feasibility for diminishing the severity
of renal malfunctions; lessen proteinuria, glomerula filtration rate, renal blood flow and
other histological degenerations. Kidney stones can accumulate in the kidney and generate
considerable ache when flowing via the urinary bladder and the urethra. Vegans exhibit a
lower degree of kidney stones prevalence than their meat-eating counterparts. Substantial
levels of animal protein amplify the possibility of losing calcium and oxalate; and deficiency
in these substances is a recipe for the development of kidney stones.
The vegan diet also reverses atherosclerosis, increase life expectancy by up to 15 years,
reduces the risk of food poisoning and bowel disorders; and can easily be digested and
assimilated.

The vegan diet fortifies the immune system

The body is endowed with a self-mobilising defensive mechanism known as the immune
system, which automatically defends the system from invasive bacteria and other
pathogenic entities, which can trigger and foster sickness. The immune system comprises
special cells, proteins, tissues and organs, which defend the body against infectious bacteria
and other pathogens, thus protecting the body from ailment. The immune system
particularly comprises outstanding disease-fighting cells known as white blood cells or
leukocytes. Through a series of steps called the immune response, the immune system
attacks micro-organisms and substances that raid the system and cause disease. The
stronger the immune system, the more robust it is in combating disease. The immune system
is remarkably adaptive; and is able to generate an enormous variety of cells and molecules,
which are capable of recognising and eliminating a limitless variety of foreign invaders.
Therefore, a stronger immune system translates into good health.
Cells in the immune system can be destroyed when exposed to oxygen, in a process called
oxidation, which produces compounds called free radicals. These free radicals can damage
genetic material or DNA, prompting cells to grow out of control and causing cancer. Diets
rich in antioxidants can neutralise free radicals, fortify the immune system and offer the
body protection from cancers.
Vitamin A vivifies the immune system by eradicating infections through the production of
white blood cells, targeted to fight harmful viruses and bacteria. Also, research suggests
that vitamin A may aid a specific type of white blood cell called lymphocytes, in more
efficiently eliminating infections. Excellent sources of vitamin A include carrots, spinach,
squash, broccoli, apricots, cantaloupe and pumpkin.
The root and leaves of the Echinacea plant are excellent for reinforcing the immune
functioning. According to Kaplan University, Echinacea plant promotes the production of
white blood cells, which aid in the elimination of infections. The complex carbohydrates in
Echinacea fight viruses, destroy fungus, and cleanse the lymphatic system. Boil the leaves of
Echinacea to form tea, or buy concentrated Echinacea in a liquid form and add 15 to 30
droplets to your daily beverage.
Garlic possesses an agent known as allicin, which fights infections by stimulating the
production of white blood cells. This potent onion relative increases natural killer cells and
antibody production. Additionally, garlic functions as an antioxidant by eliminating free
radicals in the blood. According to website advice provided by the State of Georgia in the
USA, for state employees, individuals consuming garlic decrease their risk of catching a cold
by 66%. Add crushed garlic to your favourite recipes throughout the week and consume two
raw garlic cloves daily, for maximum health benefit. Ginger, goji berries, turmeric, oregano
and green tea are all excellent boosters of the immune system. Zinc, iron, copper,
selenium, vitamins A, B6, C, and E all have critical roles in the maintenance of optimum
immune function. Most of these nutrients are best obtained from fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, nuts and seeds.
Vegans have stronger immune systems than meat consumers. Studies of white blood cell
samples from vegans have shown them to have almost thrice as much the cancer cell-
destroying ability of their non-vegan counterparts. The immune-boosting power of vegan
diets is partly due to their vitamin content, their low fat content, and perhaps other
contributors, such as reduced exposure to toxic chemicals.
The nutrients in a vegan diet
A well planned vegan diet contains all the categories of nutrient that the body requires to
maintain perfect health and emotional equilibrium. These include carbohydrates,
unsaturated fats, proteins, minerals and vitamins. Provided below are some of the sources of
nutrients for vegans:
Protein
Research reveals that the consumption of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and
grains can fulfil the bodys protein requirements. It has also been scientifically validated
that the eight types of amino acids not manufactured by the body can all be derived from
the consumption of soy beans. Dietary articles made of soy beans include tofu, soy milk, soy
flour, temple etc. Other sources of protein include lentils, nuts, peas, all forms of
vegetables and fruits, maize, rice etc.
Vitamin A
Studies have demonstrated that those with an adequate intake of vitamin A are less prone
to cancer. Green and yellow vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin A. Carrots for
instance, offer an impressive dose of vitamin A. Carrots have been found to slow the growth
rate of cancer cells. Other foods rich in vitamin A include spinach, sweet potatoes,
cantaloupe and apricots. Those who consume at least five servings a day, enjoy a reduced
risk of cancer.
Legumes are known for their excellent protein content; and this category of food includes
lentils, peas, black beans, garbanzo beans, kidney beans etc. The saturated fat and
cholesterol content of this category of food is very low; but instead contains high
proportions of folate, potassium, magnesium and iron; which are essential minerals for the
welfare of the body. This category of food is also rich in phytochemicals, a substance that
can prevent the occurrence of cardio-vascular diseases and cancer.
Vitamin C
Perhaps the best-known antioxidant, vitamin C, offers a wide-variety of health benefits,
including protection from infection and damage to body cells; helping produce collagen (the
connective tissue that holds bones and muscles together); protecting the body from bruising
by keeping capillary walls and blood vessels firm; and helping in the absorption of iron and
folate.
To take advantage of these benefits, one should consume foods rich in vitamin C, like citrus
fruits (oranges, grapefruits and tangerines), strawberries, sweet peppers, tomatoes, broccoli
and potatoes.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is critical in fortifying the immune system that aids the body in combating cancer
cells, by preventing them from dividing and multiplying uncontrollably. Vitamin D is a key
component in helping the body respond to many different kinds of assaults and stimuli, says
Robert Heaney, professor of medicine at Creighton University. In the absence of it, you're
asking the body to defend itself with one hand tied behind its back. According to The
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, People consuming a low-fat vegetarian diet tend to
have higher levels of natural killer cells, which appear to make the immune system more
effective in destroying tumours. Vitamin D is obtainable from mushrooms, dark leafy green
vegetables, soy milk, rice milk, products fortified with vitamin D such as cereals. In summer,
spend some time in the sun. Sunlight exposure stimulates vitamin D production in the skin.
Vitamin E
Research has demonstrated the broad role of vitamin E in promoting health. The main role
of vitamin E is as an antioxidant. It helps protect the body from cell damage that can lead to
cancer, heart disease and cataracts, as one ages. Vitamin E works with other antioxidants
like vitamin C, to offer protection from some chronic diseases. Vitamin E is found in
vegetable oils, salad dressings, wheat germ, whole-grain products, seeds, nuts and peanut
butter.
Calcium
Calcium is instrumental in constructing strong bones and teeth, and can be adequately
obtained from dark green vegetables; e.g., broccoli, collard etc. Tofu, soy milk and fruit
juices all depict excellent sources of calcium.
Iron
Iron is instrumental in the production of the bodys red blood cells; and excellent sources of
iron include dried beans, spinach, chard, beet greens, legumes, prune juice etc.
Zinc
Zinc plays a crucial role in cell division and protein formation; and also constitutes a major
enzymatic component. Excellent sources of zinc include grains, soy products, wheat etc.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is imperative for producing red blood cells and the prevention of anaemia. This
vitamin is obtainable from products such as cereals, fortified soy products, nutritional yeast
etc.

The medicinal properties of a vegan diet

The vegan diet contains a large number of benevolent compounds that are vital in the
natural prevention and treatment of diseases in the body. The most prominent of such
medicinal features of a vegan diet are as follows:
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are organic fat-soluble pigments (colourings) found in certain plants. This group
of nutrients provides the bright red, orange, yellow, blue and purple colourations common
among fruits and vegetables. The carotenoids that offer the most powerful protection
against cancer are: alpha carotene, beta carotene, lycopene and lutein. Excellent sources
of carotenoids include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, greens, papaya, bell peppers,
and tomatoes.
Scientists from the University of California examined the relationship between plasma
carotenoid concentration, as a biomarker of fruit and vegetable intake; and the risk for a
new breast cancer occurrence in 1,550 women previously treated for early stage breast
cancer. After 5 years of follow-up, women with the highest plasma carotenoid
concentrations had a 40% reduced risk for breast cancer recurrence (Journal of Clinical
Oncology, September, 2005).
In a study led by A. Heather Eliassen of Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical
School in Boston, researchers analysed data from thousands of women, who took part in
eight previous studies on carotenoid levels and breast cancer. They found a statistically
significant association between higher levels of carotenoids and reduced breast cancer risk,
especially so-called ER-negative breast cancers; that is, tumours that aren't reliant on
oestrogen to fuel their growth. The findings highlight carotenoid levels as one of the first
modifiable risk factors to be identified for ER-negative breast cancers. While there is some
evidence that carotenoids also inhibit the growth of ER-positive breast cancers (cancers that
respond to oestrogen), it's possible that this benefit is hidden by hormone-related
associations that overpower other risk factors.
Carotenoids are antioxidants. For that reason, they help protect the body from free radicals
(oxidative stress), which work to damage the DNA, yielding cancer-causing mutations. Beta-
carotene in particular, can block cell growth and initiate cell death. This is extremely
important, considering that cancer is fundamentally a disease of uncontrollable cell growth.
There are numerous health benefits of carrots. Not only do they offer protection from eye
disease, but they also slow the growth of cancer cells. Women who ate at least five servings
a day of foods rich in vitamin A and carotenoids such as carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes,
cantaloupe, and apricots, reduced their risk of breast cancer by more than 20%. The effect
was seen especially in pre-menopausal women with a family history of breast cancer.
Spirulina and chlorella are heavily pigmented microalgae. They are nutrient-rich vegetable
food sources abundant in beta carotene and many other carotenoids; each with the power to
combat cancer. They contain fatty acids that accelerate the positive effects of carotenoids
in the body.
Lycopene is the red-orange carotene pigment found mainly in tomatoes and tomato-based
foods, and in pink grapefruit and watermelon. Several studies have reported that the intake
of tomato products reduces the risk of some cancers; but whether lycopene is the nutrient
responsible for that reduced risk, is still a matter of investigation.
Since carotenoids require lipids to become bioactive in the body, salads full of these
colourful vegetables should always be eaten with some type of fat. The liberal use of extra
virgin olive oil on a salad is an excellent way to speed up the activities of carotenoids. Fruits
and nuts also step up the beneficial processes of carotenoids. The healthy fats found in nuts
can quickly activate all the carotenoids in the fruits.
Dietary Fibre
Dietary fibres are health-enhancing and intrinsic components of a plant-based diet, which
are usually not digested. This category of nutrients usually include plant nonstarch
polysaccharides, such as cellulose, pectin, gums, hemicellulose, fibres contained in oat and
wheat bran, oligosaccharides, lignin, and some resistant starch. Though dietary fibres are
usually classified as carbohydrates, they are not processed like other sources of
carbohydrates; and generate much less calories than other types of carbohydrates.
Foods which serve as excellent sources of fibre include legumes, oats, rye, barley,
cucumbers, celery, carrots, berries, banana, apples, whole wheat and whole grains, seeds,
nuts, brown rice, couscous, zucchini, broccoli, cabbage etc. Dietary fibre offers a multitude
of health benefits, among which are their aptness to maintain bowel health, reduce blood
cholesterol levels, control blood sugar levels, help in weight regulation; and significantly
reduce the risk of cancer.
At the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre, researchers discovered that dietary fibre
may reduce systemic inflammation, a suspected risk factor for cancer. Scientists examined
the connection between dietary fibre intake and concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP)
and serum amyloid A (SAA); both indicators of inflammation in the body.
Among the 698 breast cancer survivors who participated in the study, those who consumed
more than 15.5 g of insoluble dietary fibre per day were found to be 49% less likely to
experience a relapse in their breast cancer condition; compared to survivors who consumed
less than 5.4 g of fibre per day.
Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals are health-enhancing benign compounds naturally found in plants. They are
known to protect plants from bacteria, viruses and fungi. Scientists have identified a
substantial variety of phytochemicals, among which are very prominent types such as beta
carotene, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), frolic acid and vitamin E. Therefore, carotenoids are a
more unique class of phytochemicals. Highly pigmented fruits and vegetables are excellent
sources of phytochemicals. Typical among these are those with colours such as yellow,
orange, red, green, white, blue, purple etc. In particular, phytochemicals can be derived
from the following food items: broccoli, berries, soy nuts, pears, turnips, celery, carrots,
spinach, olives, tomatoes, lentils, cantaloupe, garlic, apricots, onion, seeds, soybeans,
green tea, apples, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, kale, etc.
Scientists have discovered that phytochemicals serve as preventive and curative remedies to
many illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. There is
some evidence to affirm that certain phytochemicals may help prevent the formation of
potential carcinogens (substances that cause cancer), block the action of carcinogens on
their target organs or tissue, or act on cells to suppress cancer development. Many experts
suggest that people can significantly reduce their risk of cancer by consuming more fruits,
vegetables and other foods from plants that contain phytochemicals.
The polyphenols are a class of phytochemicals with a sub group called flavonoids, which are
chemicals contained in plants and found in a vast array of fruits, grains and vegetables. The
isoflavones have been found to offer protection against hormone dependent cancers, such as
certain forms of breast and prostrate cancer.
Other polyphenols serve as antioxidants, which are excellent in ridding the body of harmful
molecules known as free radicals, which can damage a cell's DNA and trigger some forms of
cancer and other diseases. These compounds are commonly found in teas and in vegetables
such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower. Grapes, eggplant, red cabbage,
and radishes all contain anthocyanidins, which are flavonoids that are thought to act as
antioxidants and offer protection against some cancers and heart disease. Below are certain
phytochemicals found in certain foods:
Allicin is found in onions and garlic; and it blocks or eliminates certain toxins from bacteria
and viruses.
Anthocyanins are found in red and blue fruits (such as raspberries and blueberries) and
vegetables. They help to slow the aging process, offer protection against heart disease and
tumours, prevent blood clots, and fight inflammation and allergies.
Biflavonoids are found in citrus fruits and offer numerous medicinal benefits to the body.
Carotenoids are found in dark yellow, orange, and deep green fruits and vegetables such as
tomatoes, parsley, oranges, pink grapefruit, and spinach.
Flavonoids are found in fruits, vegetables, green tea, onions, apples, kale and beans.
Indoles are found in broccoli, cabbage, kale, Brussel sprouts, and turnips (also known as
cruciferous vegetables). They contain active agents that destroy cancer-causing
chemicals.
Isoflavones are found in soybeans and soybean products.
Lignins are found in flax seed and whole grain products.
Lutein is found in leafy green vegetables. It may prevent macular degeneration and
cataracts, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease and cancers.
Lycopene is found primarily in tomato products. When cooked, it appears to reduce the risk
of cancer and heart attacks.
Phenolics are found in citrus fruits, fruit juices, cereals, legumes and oilseeds. They are
thought to be extremely powerful, and are being studied for a variety of health benefits,
including slowing the aging process, offering protection against heart disease and tumours,
and fighting inflammation, allergies and blood clots.

Antioxidants
The body is constantly subject to numerous activities such as breathing, physical action;
environmental influences such as radiation, pollution, cigarette smoke, herbicides etc.
These types of activities and experiences produce substances known as free radicals, which
have the potential to deface the genetic parts of DNA in cells, hence triggering the cells to
grow out of control; and constituting a perfect recipe for the development of cancers.
Antioxidants not only serve to combat and neutralise these free radicals, but also strengthen
the cells weakened by the free radicals. Antioxidants are found in broccoli, Brussels sprouts,
cabbage, cauliflower, tomatoes, corn, carrots, mangos, sweet potatoes, soybeans,
cantaloupe, oranges, spinach, nuts, lettuce, celery, seeds, grains, kale, beets, red peppers,
potatoes, blueberries, strawberries, and black and green tea. As a rule, dark-coloured fruits
and vegetables contain more antioxidants than other fruits and vegetables.
Carotenoids, which give carrots, yams, cantaloupe, squash, and apricots their orange
colour, may help reduce the risk of cancer. Among the 600 or more carotenoids in foods,
beta-carotene, lycopene and lutein are well-known leaders in reducing the damage
occasioned by free radicals. Foods high in carotenoids may be effective allies against
prostate cancer (beta-carotene); cancers of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, colon
and rectum (lycopene); and may help decrease the risk of macular degeneration.
Anthocyanins, which give grapes, blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries their dark
colour, have been proven to have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties.
Sulfides, found in garlic and onions, strengthen the immune system.

Soya foods and other phyto oestrogens

There had been significant variation in cancer rates in different parts of the world.
Scientists had initially suspected that this variation in global cancer rates may be strongly
associated with global variation in dietary patterns.
Phyto oestrogens are compounds found in plants. Their structure is similar to the female sex
hormone oestrogen. There is a considerable variety of phyto oestrogens. Some are found in
soya bean products (isoflavones). Others are contained in the fibre of whole grains, fruit,
vegetables and flax seed (lignans).
Lignans constitute the principal type of phyto oestrogens in numerous diets. Scientist had
reported that post-menopausal woman with a high level of lignans in their diet are less
susceptible to breast cancer.
In July 2002, a combined study was conducted by Cancer Research UK, the National Cancer
Institute of the USA, and the National University of Singapore. The study brought to light
that women with a diet high in soya had less dense breast tissue than women with low soya
diets. Higher density of breast tissue has been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.
Blending the outcomes of numerous separate studies (Meta analysis), demonstrated that
Asian women who consume the highest amounts of soy foods had a significantly reduced risk
of breast cancer. In numerous other parts of the world, most women do not consume enough
soy to reduce their risk of breast cancer.
In some studies, regular consumption of phyto oestrogens (soya flour and linseed
supplements) over several weeks, was shown to reduce oestrogen levels. One of the active
ingredients in soya is isoflavone. This compound is similar to oestrogen and lessens the
effect of human oestrogen in the body. High levels of human oestrogen can increase breast
cancer risk.
Products derived from soy are excellent sources of pure and high quality protein.

A vegan diet boosts emotional health

All human emotions, feelings and desires are conducted by the astral body and the
corresponding aura. The astral body is an ether-composed rarefied and invisible body that
surrounds and interpenetrates the physical body. The astral body is ovoid-shaped and
comprises seven sub-layers, in increasing refinement, from the exterior to the interior.
Now, the purer and more refined the astral body is, the more effective it would instrument
the transmutation of emotional energy to higher spiritual energy, for the development of
the power, wisdom and beauty of the soul; and the more capable it is, in harnessing and
channelling the impressions of the soul to subordinate organs, for an apt and more fulfilled
life. Now, the finest particles of food consumed by humans infiltrate the astral body, and
substantially affect its refinement and purity.
A meat-centred diet pollutes and coarsens the astral body, handicapping emotional health
and jeopardising the astral bodys relationship with the soul. This effectively hinders the
individuals spiritual evolution, and critically impedes the development of his wisdom and
love.
More so, when animals are slaughtered, they give up the ghost in a state of fear,
resentment, anguish and melancholy. These states become embodied in their meat; and the
individuals emotional body assimilates such states, upon the consumption of such meat. The
individuals emotional body thus incubates and intensifies these rudimentary emotions, and
these low and coarse emotions now take on a bearing on the individual. The individual
becomes more prone to these distasteful emotions of fear, anger, anxiety, sorrow etc.
Contrarily, a vegan diet promotes loftier emotions and states; such as joy, happiness, love,
calmness etc.

A vegan diet boosts mental health

The human mind itself is an exceedingly delicate ethereal structure, enwrapped in yet
another delicate ethereal matrix of mental bodies, and the corresponding aura. The chief
function of the human mind is to serve as an instrument via which the soul establishes
contact with the worlds of matter, including this coarse physical world. Therefore, it is
stated:
Mind is matter just as truly as steel, but infinitely more refined. Thus, it stands next to
spirit in all of its essential qualities. The chief function of mind is to serve as an instrument
of spirit for all contacts with the material world.
(Dr. Julian Johnson: The path of the Masters; p.g. 274)

Now, when food is consumed, digested and assimilated, the finest and most delicate
components of the food infiltrate the mind, its associated mental bodies and the
corresponding aura. These infiltrated components of food not only influence the composition
and rate of vibration of these ethereal structures, but are assimilated within them, and
become part and parcel of the mind and these ethereal structures. Therefore, it is stated:
Mind consists of food. That which is the subtle part of milk moves upwards when the milk is
churned and becomes butter. In the same manner, the subtle part of the food that is eaten
moves upward and becomes mind. Thus mind consists of food.
(Chanddogya Upanishad)
Now, the components of a flesh-rich diet that infiltrate the mind and its mental equipage
are very coarse, dense, and vibrate at a very low frequency. These animal food components
pollute and intoxicate the mind, coarsening its refinement and delicacy, corrupting its
clarity, degrading its sharpness and nimbleness, sabotaging its calmness and equipoise,
inhibiting its responsiveness and handicapping its effectiveness.

Indeed, the manner in which animal food components corrode the mind bears semblance
with the manner in which rust corrodes metals. Such corrosive food components thus
degrade the minds natural capacity to execute the instructions of the soul. Such
instructions are either distorted, their smooth flow inhibited, or simply not complied with.
When the mind becomes out of tune with the Divine light of the soul in this manner, the
individuals life becomes liable to derailment, as observed in multiple forms of degeneracy;
including anger, greed, lust, attachment and vainglory, which are all major barricades for
the development of the individuals wisdom, and the ultimate liberation of his soul from the
tenterhooks of karma. Therefore it is stated:
Be careful about what you eat so that you do not contaminate yourself, and make the cells
and the brain confused. This will consequently hinder your spiritual progress. It's not that
God cares about what we eat, but if we poison our systems with intoxicating things or
impure foods such as meat or animal products, then the cells of the body and the brain will
also become contaminated and confused. And thus we will not be able to think clearly or sit
calmly to find the source of happiness and wisdom...If we confuse our cells, brain, blood,
and sentimental condition, we will also be confused. Then we cannot think straight
anymore. When we sit in meditation, we will become very restless and agitated. Even if we
sit well in meditation, our vision will be clouded with negative influences from the
poisonous things that we have taken into our body. So it's not that God cares about what we
eat or I care about what you eat, or that if you eat a little meat you go straight to hell. It's
not true. It's just that if we want to be Godlike, we must take care that everything we do
and everything we eat is pure so that we will become pure.

(Supreme Master Ching Hai, Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A., July 5, 1997)
Diametrically, a vegan diet embodies very refined, subtle and pure components, which upon
infiltrating the mind and its ethereal accessories, uphold and even enhance their delicacy
and refinement. Purity of these structures is positively correlated to higher frequencies of
vibration, which are mandatory in the transmutation of their respective energies to higher
spiritual frequencies, since such refined vibrations are more in tune with the expression of
the soul.
Therefore, a vegan diet enhances the refinement and delicacy of the mind; fortifies its
clarity, nimbleness, sharpness, alertness and responsiveness; amplifies its equipoise and
invigorates its effectiveness; rendering it a fit instrument to execute the souls instructions.
Thus it is stated:
Because we follow a vegetarian diet, our body is less burdened by animal instincts and
substances, and we become purer in body and mind. So, it's easier for us to perceive the
spiritual messages. Especially when we meditate, we calm our turbulent mind somewhat,
and then the spiritual messages can filter through. Otherwise, God, Buddha and spiritual
beings always stand by and help us in many ways and answer our prayers; but we can never
receive because we are too busy and too noisy inside our mind, and our body and spirit are
crowded by different substances, especially from the animal's lower vibration. So, now you
see the logical explanation of the vegetarian diet and meditation practice. The lower and
the higher cannot mix. If you are nearer to the physical existence, nearer to the animal
kingdom, then we cannot be nearer to God's Kingdom or the spiritual hierarchy.
(Supreme Master Ching Hai At Pang Suan Kaew Hotel, Chiang Mai, Thailand Dec 4, 1994).

A vegan diet boosts spiritual health

The integrated spiritual welfare of the individual is a function of the collective and
respective welfares of the physical, emotional, mental and pure spiritual facets of the
individual.
Meditation enables the soul to harness its own self-contained wisdom and power. When the
pure spiritual energy from the soul is perfectly aligned with the mental, emotional and
physical energies, then the individual experiences sound spiritual health.
The vegan diet is a major catalyst in the attunement of these respective energy facets to
the perfect wisdom of the soul.
If the individual cannot exercise clemency upon animals, at least, he may deem it natural to
exercise compassion upon himself, by adopting a vegan diet.

Diseases that occur in animals

Common diseases in cattle
Anaplasmosis
Anaplasmosis is an infectious blood disease transmitted by the rickesttsial parasites
Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma centrale. This parasite damages red blood cells. It
gives rise to anemia, fever, weight loss, breathlessness, uncoordinated movements, abortion
and death. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and the microscopic examination of blood for
evidence of the parasite. Affected cattle either die or begin a recovery within 4 days
following the first signs of the disease. The mortality rate increases with the age of the
animal.
Anthrax
This is a highly infectious and fatal disease caused by a relatively large spore-forming
rectangular shaped bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. Most outbreaks occur in areas where
animals have previously died of anthrax, since the spores remain active for numerous
decades. Most animals are simply found dead of the disease. Once an outbreak begins, the
animals may be observed with signs of weakness, fever, excitement followed by depression,
difficulty in breathing, uncoordinated movements and convulsions. Bloody discharges from
the natural body openings as well as edema in different parts of the body are sometimes
observed. After death, the animal's body rapidly decomposes.
Blackleg
A highly fatal disease of young cattle. The spores in this organism can survive in the soil for
numerous years. The microbes find their way to the calf by ingestion; and then enter into
the bloodstream through small punctures in the mucous membrane of the digestive tract.
The first sign observed is usually lameness, loss of appetite, rapid breathing; and the animal
is usually depressed and has a high fever. Swellings develop in the hip, shoulder, chest,
back, neck or elsewhere. Initially, the swelling is small, hot and painful. As the disease
progresses, the swelling enlarges and becomes spongy and gaseous. The animal usually dies
within 12 to 48 hours. In most cases, the animal is found dead without being previously
observed sick. The speed with which blackleg kills usually renders treatment useless.
Bloat
Pasture Bloat is a form of severe indigestion marked by a collection of gas in the rumen that
the animal is unable to expel. Normal digestive processes create gases consisting chiefly of
carbon dioxide and methane in the rumen. Most of the gases are eliminated by belching.
Gases that are trapped may form a foam or froth in the rumen, which further prevents their
elimination. Froth formation can be caused by many factors resulting from interactions
between the animal, rumen microorganisms and differences in plant biochemistry. The main
causes of bloat are an inherited tendency for bloat, certain proteins in forage (particularly
in legumes), the coarseness of the roughage and the type of rumen microbial population.
Pasture bloat usually occurs in animals grazing on wheat pasture, lush legumes (alfalfa,
Ladino, red clover) or fed green-chopped legumes.
Brucellosis (Bangs)
Also known as 'Contagious Abortion', this disease is caused by infection with the bacterium
Brucella abortus. Brucellosis infection of cattle causes abortion or premature calving of
recently infected animals, most often between the fifth and eighth month of pregnancy.
Infected cows are difficult to get rebred and sometimes become sterile. Brucellosis is spread
from the vaginal discharge of an infected cow or from an aborted fetus. The organism has an
affinity for the reproductive tract and abortions, retained placenta, weak calves and
infertility frequently occurs. Breeding bulls which are infected can transmit the disease to
cows at the time of service by infected semen. Milk produced from an infected cow may also
contain the organism. The infected milk creates a public health hazard as this is the
organism that causes undulant fever in humans.
Coccidiosis
Coccidiosis is a persistent major disease problem for cattle producers. Symptoms include
diarrhea, loss of weight, loss of appetite, rough coat and emaciation. Coccidiosis occurs
more frequently in calves from one to six months of age, but older cattle, especially those
from one to two years, can also be affected. The general weakness may cause the calf to
defecate without rising, thus soiling its tail and hindquarters. In more severe cases, the
manure may contain blood, mucus, and stringy masses of tissue. Severe straining at
defecation may be observed in the more advanced stages. Death may occur during the acute
period, or later, from secondary complications such as pneumonia.

Common disease in chicken

There are four principal types of disease which habitually affect poultry. They comprise:
metabolic and nutritional diseases; infectious diseases; parasitic diseases; and behavioural
diseases.

Metabolic and nutritional diseases

These are conditions caused by a disturbance of normal metabolic functions either through a
genetic defect, inadequate or inappropriate nutrition, or impaired nutrient utilisation.
Examples include, Fatty Liver Syndrome, Perosis (or slipped tendon), Rickets and Cage Layer
Fatigue.
Infectious diseases
An infectious disease is any illness which arises from invasion by a pathogen; and
subsequently grows and multiplies in the body. Infectious diseases are often contagious, thus
enabling them to spread directly or indirectly from one living creature to another. These
include Avian Encephalomyelitis, Avian Influenza, Avian Tuberculosis, Chicken Anaemia Virus
Infection (or CAV), Chlamydiosis, Egg Drop Syndrome (or EDS), Fowl Cholera (or
Pasteurellosis), Fowl Pox, Infectious Bronchitis, Infectious Bursal Disease (or
Gumboro), Infectious Coryza, Infectious Laryngotracheitis, Lymphoid Leukosis, Mareks
Disease, Mycoplasmosis, Necrotic Enteritis, Newcastle Disease, Salmonellosis.
Parasitic diseases
Parasitic diseases are infections or infestations with parasitic organisms. They are often
contracted through contact with an intermediate vector; but may occur as a result of direct
exposure. A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another organism, and obtains its
nourishment from it. These include Coccidiosis, Cryptosporidiosis, Histomoniasis, Lice and
Mites, Parasitic Worms (or Helminths), Toxoplasmosis, Trichomoniasis.
Behavioural diseases
Abnormal behavioural patterns can lead to injury or ill health of the abnormally behaving
bird and its companions. These include Cannibalism (aggressive pecking).

Common disease in pigs

Common diseases in pigs include: Gastric ulcers due to starvation; Leptospirosis, Pneumonia,
Piglet anemia, Worms, Piglet scours, porcine parvovirus, Swine dysentery, etc.

With the vast array of diseases that habitually infect farmed animals, its entirely impossible
to guarantee the safety of these products for human consumption. If its true that animals
reared for human consumption are often infected by diseases, then its also true that animal
owners attempt to cure sick animals with antibiotics and other chemical products, which
remain in their meat at the time humans consume it. Thus, in their book titled: Poison in
your body, Steven Null et. al. stated: The animals are kept alive and fattened by continuous
administration of tranquilisers, hormones, antibiotics and 2,700 other drugs. The process
starts even before birth and continues long after death. Although these drugs will still be
in the meat when you eat it, the law does not require that they be listed on the package.
When we consume meat and other animal products containing such a frightfully high level of
dangerous chemicals, they form intoxicants in our system. Intoxicant briefly means poison.
Therefore, these toxic products quickly ruin our health and disable our system. They mutate
the normal physiological processes in the body; and precipitate numerous diseases, including
strokes, heart diseases, all types of cancers, to mention just a few.

Meet other vegans

The following are among notable vegetarians and vegans of the past and present:
Bill Clinton (former US president); Dr. Janez Drnovek (former president of Slovenia (2002
2007); Dr. Abdul Kalam (11th president of India); Benjamin Franklin (US statesman and
inventor); Martin Luther King, Jr ( American civil rights activist); Mahatma Gandhi (Indias
political and civil rights activist); Albert Einstein (scientist and philosopher); Isaac Newton
(British mathematician and physicist); Charles Darwin (British naturalist and father of
evolutionary Biology); Confucius (Great Chinese moral and spiritual philosopher); Socrates
( Greek philosopher).

Conclusion
This book has revealed the nutritional and medicinal merits of an organic vegan diet; and
also demonstrated the untold health repercussions occasioned by meat-centred diets.
Food consumption should not only constitute a means to fill your stomach and deliberately
gratify your palate or taste buds, but should essentially serve as a means to nourish,
vitalise and sustain the bodys physiological and psychological mechanisms and processes,
for perfect health; and to achieve integrated physical, emotional, mental and spiritual
welfare and equilibrium, for a happier, more meaningful, satisfactory and fulfilled life.
Indeed, the infallibility of the maxim that you are what you eat, has been upheld time
and time again, by the most acclaimed experts in the domain of diet. Nutritional Biology
maintains that food nourishes and enlivens the body, but also that food consumed, digested
and assimilated becomes part and parcel of the cells of the body. For instance, it has been
scientifically proven that worn out or damaged cells are replaced by protein. Therefore,
the protein we consume is transformed to refurbish destroyed cells, and actually becomes
these new cells.
Food can also determine ones state of mind and thus impacts upon the thinking process. In
this accord thus, food is cardinal in moulding our destiny, for good or for woe. Given the far-
reaching impact of food in our lives, it would be wise to exercise caution as to the type of
food we consume. Only food items that afford us nourishment, vitality and excellent health
should be consumed; while we should entirely avoid poisonous food items that jeopardise
our health by intoxicating our system with all manners of poisonous residues, and
manufacturing for us undeserved misery. Let the wealth of your health always be yours, via
the trusted agency of a vegan diet.
 Appendix
Alas, what wickedness to swallow flesh into our flesh, to fatten our greedy bodies by
cramming in other bodies, to have one living creature fed by the death of another! In the
midst of such wealth as earth, the best of mothers, provides, nothing forsooth satisfies you
but to behave like the Cyclopes, inflicting sorry wounds with cruel teeth! You cannot
appease the hungry cravings of your wicked, gluttonous stomachs except by destroying
some other life.
(Pythagoras Greek Philosopher)

Egg-laying hens are detained in small wire-mesh cages as to entirely forbid their natural
flapping of wings. The obscene atmosphere in which they are incarcerated is saturated with
chemicals such as ammonia, which are detrimental to their visual and respiratory organs.
During long-distant expeditions to hellish slaughter houses, numerous birds suffer broken
legs. One egg represents thirty-four hours of suffering for the hen, let alone the ultimate
cruelty; which, indeed, is slaughter itself. The beaks of chickens are chopped off with a hot
blade, inflicting untold pain on these humble and law-abiding citizens.
Animals such as pigs and lambs are subjected to the abomination of castration without
anaesthetics, which inflicts untold agony on these creatures.
Chicken, pigs, turkeys and cows are genetically bred and fed with a thousand and one
chemicals, some of which induce artificial fattening on these creatures, and disrupt their
natural mechanism of growth. Excessive congestion amongst pigs engenders behavioural
pathology, for which the pigs engage in tail-biting. The tails of such pigs are then savagely
pruned, again without anaesthetics.
Dairy cows and other animals which are no longer able to walk are dragged from trucks
with great hostility, breaking even more of their bones. They are murdered by being hung
upside down and bled to death from a slit throat, often skinned and hacked to pieces while
still very much conscious.
Embittered and screaming animals in a heightened state of sheer horror upon sighting
arrangements for their gruesome murder are savagely deterred from any form of
resistance. When animals hesitate to close in the queues, towards their demise, they are
subjected to electric shocks, concussions, whips or hammer blows, as tactics to compel
them to progress towards fulfilling their unjust death warrant.
En route to their termination chambers, animals are jammed into trucks under conditions
of chronic discomfort and distress; in what is otherwise long distant expeditions, during
which the animals suffer thirst and hunger, aggravated by great anxiety and exhaustion.
Maritime Suicide is rife, with the sorry prevalence of indiscriminate fish catch. When
captured in gigantic nets, those poor creatures battle for their lives and in the process,
often suffer serious bodily inflammation; and ultimately, death; following decompression,
which ruptures their air bladder; or, indeed, from suffocation on ships decks.
The mouth of a fish is furnished with very delicate and highly sensitive sensory receptors,
which render the fish tremendously sensitive to pain inflicted by the anglers hook.
The situation is worsened by the fishs natural struggle to gain liberation from its captors;
during which it sustains serious mouth injury, suffers deprivation of oxygen and
consequently death.
The nervous system of animals is highly developed and thus, animals are very sensitive to
pain to the same degree as humans.
Indeed, animals and humans fall into the same biological class called mammalian; and this
includes humans, dogs, cats, rodents, cattle, whales, bats etc. This again underscores the
biological similarities between humans and animals.
Ethical reasons for a vegan diet by Emmanuel Ebah
Do we, as humans, having an ability to reason and to communicate abstract ideas verbally
and in writing, and to form ethical and moral judgements using the accumulated knowledge
of the ages, have the right to take the lives of other sentient organisms, particularly, when
we are not forced to do so by hunger or dietary need, but rather do so for the somewhat
frivolous reason that we like the taste of meat! In essence, should we know better!
Professor Peter Cheeke, Oregon State University professor of animal agriculture:
Contemporary Issues in animal agriculture, (2004).

"Thou shalt not kill"

Thou shalt not kill,' for life is given to all by God, and that which God has given, let not
man take away. For I tell you truly, from one Mother proceeds all that lives upon the
earth. Therefore, he who kills, kills his brother. And from him will the Earthly Mother turn
away, and will pluck from him her quickening breasts. And he will be shunned by her
angels, and Satan will have his dwelling in his body. And the flesh of slain beasts in his body
will become his own tomb. For I tell you truly, he who kills, kills himself, and whoso eats
the flesh of slain beasts, eats of the body of death. For in his blood every drop of their
blood turns to poison; in his breath their breath to stink; in his flesh their flesh to boils; in
his bones their bones to chalk; in his bowels their bowels to decay; in his eyes their eyes to
scales; in his ears their ears to waxy issue. And their death will become his death.
"I have given you every herb bearing seed... to you it shall be for food"
Kill not, neither eat the flesh of your innocent prey, lest you become the slaves of Satan.
For that is the path of sufferings, and it leads unto death. But do the will of God, that his
angels may serve you on the way of life. Obey, therefore, the words of God: 'Behold, I have
given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree,
in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. And to every beast
of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to everything that creepeth upon the earth,
wherein there is breath of life, I give every green herb for meat.
"Eat not anything which fire, or frost, or water has destroyed"
But I do say to you: Kill neither men, nor beasts, nor yet the food which goes into your
mouth. For if you eat living food, the same will quicken you, but if you kill your food, the
dead food will kill you also. For life comes only from life, and from death comes always
death. For everything which kills your foods, kills your bodies also. And everything which
kills your bodies kills your souls also. And your bodies become what your foods are, even as
your spirits, likewise, become what your thoughts are. Therefore, eat not anything which
fire, or frost, or water has destroyed. For burned, frozen and rotted foods will burn, freeze
and rot your body also. Be not like the foolish husbandman who sowed in his ground
cooked, and frozen, and rotten seeds. And the autumn came, and his fields bore nothing.
And great was his distress. But be like that husbandman who sowed in his field living seed,
and whose field bore living ears of wheat, paying a hundredfold for the seeds which he
planted. For I tell you truly, live only by the fire of life, and prepare not your foods with
the fire of death, which kills your foods, your bodies and your souls also.
It is the fire which blazes outside your body, which is hotter than your blood. With that
fire of death you cook your foods in your homes and in your fields. I tell you truly, it is the
same fire which destroys your foods and your bodies, even as the fire of malice, which
ravages your thoughts, ravages your spirits. For your body is that which you eat, and your
spirit is that which you think. Eat nothing, therefore, which a stronger fire than the fire of
life has killed. Wherefore, prepare and eat all fruits of trees, and all grasses of the fields,
and milk of beasts good for eating. For all these are fed and ripened by the fire of life; all
are the gift of the angels of our Earthly Mother. But eat nothing to which only the fire of
death gives savour, for such is of Satan.
So eat always from the table of God: the fruits of the trees, the grain and grasses of the
field, the milk of beasts, and the honey of bees. For everything beyond these is of Satan,
and leads by the way of sins and of diseases unto death. But the foods which you eat from
the abundant table of God give strength and youth to your body, and you will never see
diseases.
Eat, therefore, all your life at the table of our Earthly Mother, and you will never see
want. And when you eat at her table, eat all things even as they are found on the table of
the Earthly Mother. Cook not, neither mix all things one with another, lest your bowels
become as steaming bogs. For I tell you truly, this is abominable in the eyes of the Lord.
Jesus was a raw foodist by the Essene Gospel of Peace, contained in Soystache at:
http://soystache.com/jesus.htm

How Meditation can help you secure happiness after death

Each person is surrounded by a delicate ovoid-shaped layered pattern of spiritual bodies or
psychic environment known as auras. Under normal spiritual health, these auras emit very
vivid bright colours. Positive, spiritual, devotional and pure-hearted emotions and thoughts
generate positive uplifting energy, which upholds the perfect health and brightness of these
auras. Contrarily, negative and profane emotions and thoughts such as fear, hatred, anger,
hostility, lust, etc, produce negative energy that attaches itself on these auras and darken
their luminosity; in the same manner that black ink would produce a blot on an
immaculately white dress. More so, invisible negative emotions and degrading thoughts
generated by people other than ourselves, are constantly floating in the collective psychic
environment. Each time one is present among other people, negative thoughts and defiling
emotions drifting in the atmosphere would stick to our auras and degrade their spiritual
health, by blotting out their natural purity and brightness. Therefore, each day, its
imperative for us to take a spiritual shower, by cleaning up all the negative emotions and
degrading thoughts that have attached themselves to our auras; and debased their health.
Examples of places which are full of negative emotions and profane thoughts include,
alcohol consumptions areas, slaughter houses and butcher shops, gambling halls, dram-
shops, pool rooms, just to mention a few. Someone who spends the entire life without
meditating is comparable to someone who has exhausted his or her entire lifespan without
ever taking a shower; without ever washing the bedspread, without ever cleaning the house;
without ever disposing of garbage, without ever brushing the teeth; and putting on the same
outfit for his or her entire life without ever washing or changing it. It would be deemed an
advanced stage of insanity for a normal person to go for a month without brushing the teeth
or taking a shower. Imagine then spending about eighty years on earth without ever cleaning
up the negative energy attached to auras! Without exaggerating, this scenario can be
classified as self-perpetuated spiritual suicide.
Therefore, if we depart from this world with an aura that had never been cleaned and
refined through meditation, such an aura would be blemished by thick layers of negative
energy. These layers of negative energy attached to the aura must necessarily be burnt out
in the lowest sub-plane of the astral world, before the soul can be pure and light enough to
move on to higher realms. The burning out of this negative energy attached to the aura in
the lowest sub-planes of the astral world causes severe pain and terrible suffering. The more
intense the negative energy attached to the aura, the severer the burning out process; and
the more extensive the time expended on that lowest astral sub-plane. This scenario can be
viewed along the lines of a patient who is tormented by a particular malady. The more
chronic a patients illness, the more intense the treatment; and the longer the patients
duration of stay in the intensive care unit of a hospital.

Meditation is a methodical process and means by which the meditator tunes in to the
supreme divine intelligence of the universe, thereby enabling the harnessing of this divine
intelligence, which then pours into the mind, emotions, brain and physical body; thus
bringing about accelerated and enhanced development of the mind; upholding and
enhancing emotional welfare; inducing an expansion in brain capacity, and safeguarding the
health and vitality of the physical body; with all these benefits achieved against the
backdrop of the meditators overall spiritual development; and the integrated and
harmonious welfare of the body, emotions, mind and the soul, now and now after.
Therefore, its immensely rewarding for one to devote some effort in learning some form of
meditation. Nowadays, there is a wealth of meditation technique available, from which one
can make a choice of the technique one is most comfortable with. One can then make a
concerted effort to meditate on a daily basis. Each day, we nourish the physical body by
consuming various components of physical food. The spiritual body also needs to be
nourished on a daily basis through meditation. Though there are numerous forms of
meditation, some are more sophisticated than others. Nonetheless, through this authors
personal experience, the best form of meditation is that which involves contemplating the
Inner Divine light and the Inner Divine sound. The Divine light expands our wisdom and love,
while the Divine sound purifies our spiritual bodies and uplifts the soul. This type of
meditation is also called the Quan Yin Method of meditation, which is taught by Supreme
Master Ching Hai, a world-renowned highly competent meditation teacher, with an
impressive track record of over thirty years of expertise in this field.
If you deliberately decide not to maintain a clean aura while you are still alive, then be
prepared for your aura to be subjected to compulsory cleansing when your journey in this
world would one day come to an end. Compulsory cleansing of the aura after death is
terribly pain-stricken and miserable. Its wiser and more comfortable to voluntarily maintain
a clean aura while one is still alive. Meditation is the highest form of spiritual investment
one can act upon, while still in this physical world.

A word of gratitude to the esteemed reader

I hereby express deep and sincere gratitude to you the esteemed reader, for sparing some of
your valuable time to read this book. I hope your journey through the book was enjoyable
and inspiring. Please now permit me to offer you a cordial invitation to my other electrifying
masterpieces, which are also available at kindle bookstores and at smashwords.com;
specially dedicated for your unique exploration and enjoyment. Thus, please find listed
below, my other titles: