I Am No Longer Vegan… | Why I'm an Ex-Vegan (for now)

[@MrConstancejames]

I am still vegan, but I dealt with eight years of massive bloating and discomfort before finally finding out that I had a severe soy allergy. I was feeling so terrible constantly but didnt want to give up. I am finally feeling great as a soy free vegan, but it can be difficult! I suffered for too long and wouldnt wish that for anyone else. I'm glad I figured out what was wrong, but if veganism is making someone feel terrible or if its not accessible, they should do whats best for them!

[@arambarsamian6312]

I’m glad you persevered! Honestly, it’s really not hard to avoid soy. I have nothing against soy (if it’s organic), but the only soy product I buy is miso. And one can find chickpea-based miso (soy-free) as well. There are hundreds of other delicious and healthy plant foods out there. Glad you’re doing better!

[@EmilFromEarth]

Yeah I had gluten and soy allergy. Sucks but I think it's the cause of a lot of ex-vegans

[@arambarsamian6312]

@@EmilFromEarth who says gluten and soy are necessary for one to maintain a healthy vegan diet? I practically never have gluten or soy - not because I have anything against them, but because there are so many other things to eat! We are really talking about avoiding wheat, barley, rye, and soy. Who buys wheat berries, barley, rye, and soybeans at the grocery store? Very few people. Ah - but the problem is that many convenience/processed foods contain these foods as ingredients. Fine - avoid processed foods like you are supposed to anyway, and you can be a healthy, happy vegan. Problem solved. Next excuse, please? (Obviously, I wasn’t directing this to you, directly, Emil! I’m just so tired of all the pathetic excuses. I wish they’d just be honest and say “I just don’t care that much about the animals.”)

[@Heaven-dy9lj]

Hitler suffered with bloating. His doctor found that eating veg, high carbs was causing bloating - fermentation.. 50 micro nutrients are missing from a vegan diet along with a B6 form, there are 2. His doctor recolonised hist gut over a year, and his stomach bloating was gone.

[@DH-uw3us]

Soy was causing a lot of bloating for me as well. I never had a problem with soy until I started eating soy based protein bars daily. They caused other symptoms as well, so I'm glad I figured out what it was. I have also had issues with gluten. Now I try to limit the two as much as possible, but I still occasionally indulge from time to time.

[@loriwestern9103]

I was eating plant based, juicing, mono meals, raw plants, all to be healthy, my MD told me from my lab work I was not absorbing nutrients, had severe gut issues, hair loss, arthritis pain especially in my hands, teeth enamel breaking down, wierd rash my MD said was something I was eating, etc. Decided to add meat eggs and butter, very little plants right now, my hair isn't falling out half as much, stomach issues are 80% better, teeth are more stable and my hands don't hurt for nothing, still want to add more plants but doing it a little at a time so I can evaluate how my body reacts.

[@darthdripwalker9400]

Listen to your body what it needs....not what the pure vegan people want

[@sundragon13]

Looks up weston a price eat and lots of fat soluble vitamins

[@mel00079]

Im eating vegan since 7 years now and I feel better than ever, but also feel like everyone should eat what works best for them and your health. ❤

[@jglee6721]

It's a deficient diet akin to a fast. You're only damaging yourself but you would not even notice. There are people who did vegan for 20-30 years and had their health totally ruined by the time they woke up.

[@mygoodeyeclosedCC]

@@jglee6721 😂 “woke up”

[@shinebright048]

@@jglee6721unny you say that, because I know people who eat meat and dairy and have all types of health issues too, but lets blame the vegan diet 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@arambarsamian6312]

@@jglee6721 on the contrary. A whole-food plant-based diet is *much* more nutrient-dense than a diet that includes animal products - because plants are much more nutrient-dense. They contain hundreds of phytonutrients which are simply absent from animal foods - and these nutrients are not optional. Also, let not pretend that we do not have actual knowledge/evidence of the healthfulness of vegan diets. With confounding factors controlled, vegans have lower rates of chronic diseases compared with vegetarians, who do better than flexirarians, who do better that omnivores. I’m sorry - that’s simply not debatable; it’s a matter of fact. To assert that vegan diets are hazardous is just wishful thinking with the intention to justify to oneself or others the choice to commit moral atrocities against sentient beings - atrocities one would never want committed against one’s pets. Boom!

[@DH-uw3us]

@@shinebright048 Exactly lol. The standard American diet has wrecked many people's health. Plus, not all vegan diets are the same.

[@helenaraptis2708]

I’m so happy for you! I have been watching you for a very long time and I appreciate all your journeys you share. You deserve to feel confident in anything you choose in your life. I’m here for it all! 💚

[@DrMonaVand]

Thank u so much Helena

[@evabarbarabongard2809]

Mona! How interesting all you are saying! Thank you! It has been a long journey for my daughter with alot of medical issues since she was born. She is now 16 and she is a national ambassador for Miracle children’s network hospital and her message for 2023 is precise: if my mind and emotions are not in good health and in order my body will have more issues to heal. She is an advocate for mental and emotional health in youth and children.

[@bethcomstock5708]

I've been on a plant based diet for 22 years. I am now pre diabetic, I know that my protein comes from carbs not helping my situation. I'm so glad I found your video! I can completely relate! I'm thinking of adding fish and chicken but after this long how do I do that?

[@flamencoguru]

Add some animal protein (fish, eggs, etc.) It's good for you. You'll feel better. It's worth it.

[@carlyhunteryoga]

I highly respect what you have to say in this video and the candid, humble point of view that we can change. You seem so down to earth about this topic - each person is on an individual journey it's a process of refinement. After eating plant based for the last 10+ years I am just starting to incorporate more protein in my diet through eggs and fish and considering poultry as well. Your message hits me at the right time. Little by little, but all in an effort to maximize health since I've been dealing with some issues too. You're absolutely right-nobody cares what you eat (even if you're a public figure like yourself). Do what is best for you and makes you feel good. Thank you for sharing.

[@DrMonaVand]

Thank you Carly. Really thoughtful and kind comment ❤

[@desmomotodesmomoto2033]

@@DrMonaVand 100% carnivore here for the last 5 years. Best decision of my life. I am a new man. Check out CarnivoreMD.

[@JnTmarie]

Why would you do that? I’ve never felt better on a proper whole food plant based diet taking b12 and vit d never looked better also. Very active and mentally sharp.

[@gemspiritmessages2754]

@@desmomotodesmomoto2033 couldn’t agree more, plant based DOES NOT WORK for everyone, the amount of oxalates and chemical residue from plants is causing major problems for many people. I’m dropping weight, no more brain fog, menopausal issues sorting out, sleep problems since doing high fat carnivore.

[@mariharrik5987]

@@JnTmarie good it worked for you but it won't work for others

[@DogsSunshineCoffee]

I think it’s easier for those of us doing it for ethical reasons, to stick with it.

[@NoInjusticeLastsForever]

She definitely was never vegan. They almost never were.

[@arambarsamian6312]

Indeed. For me there was a point of no return. It really comes down to this: are you vegan for others (the animals) or for yourself. Once you really process the idea that someone has to be get raped, tortured, and have their throat slit for the meat on your plate, there is just no going back. I’ve been vegan for the animals for 17 years. The health benefits have been amazing - but I have always treated them as a positive side affect of a life of compassion. Best wishes!

[@elissadavis5657]

Yesssssss

[@jujubeatz-mp1rw]

@@arambarsamian6312 do you take b12 and D3 vitamins, also do you eat flaxseeds or chia seeds for omegas 3 ??

[@robyfarrugia]

100%

[@MISSYMINX261]

I eat mostly vegan but do have eggs time from time to time. My hair is actually the thickest its been being mostly vegan. I started to get digestive issues a few yrs ago, went through what you did so many different drs, diets, etc. Doctors trying to get me to eat meat, etc. My intuition told me that is not the reason for my digestive issues. I love the way I eat, mostly vegan and clean, hardly any processed food. And you know what I was right!! I had breast implant illness. Just removed my implants a month ago and my bloating is gone!!!! Mona that might be your issue too, and botox and fillers are not the way to health either.

[@xmetalgamerx]

Good on you for doing the most you personally can for the animals! I feel things are changing for the better in the vegan community but just in case, please remember you don’t need to listen to the vegan police. They don’t know your struggles or your character/intentions, so no reason to let them judge you.

[@Lila17_]

I 100% agree. Humans were meant to be herbivores not carnivores and there’s a lot of proof behind it. For example we’re the only “omnivores” that need to cook our food but if you can really eat meat we don’t have to do that. I’m glad you didn’t listen to your doctor, most people are brainwashed into thinking that meat is what gives us all the nutrients but plants are the ones that contain all of it, eating animals just gives us heart problems and cholesterol.

[@Lila17_]

@@xmetalgamerx thing is we aren’t meant to satisfy anyone with what we eat or to fit in to a specific category, if that’s why anyone’s vegan then they don’t know what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. Vegan is a healthy lifestyle for ourselves and the environment not to fit into anyone’s lifestyle or aesthetic.

[@mariharrik5987]

@@Lila17_ we are not herbivores stop being stupid we are not carnivores either we are Omnivores its a biological fact

[@mariharrik5987]

@@Lila17_ and pleas change your name it's wery arrogant to think you know best

[@cookiemonstaaaaaa234]

So glad you're back! You were missing from my notifications for too long. Looking forward to watching your upcoming quality contents!

[@Runmommy24]

🙋🏽‍♀️ Same! Lost my hair with plant-based. Now just eating clean. It feels so natural to eat what is natural. Thanks for sharing.

[@rajeevdsamuel]

Sometime just a simple philosophy of eating what is "grown or grows" and not "made in a lab" is all it takes

[@MaynardsSpaceship]

I recommend Dr. Melanie Joy. She discusses what has been labeled as "natural" in this society. You're naturally a herbivore who was taught otherwise.

[@rajeevdsamuel]

@@MaynardsSpaceship That is totally wrong and a complete lie. Humans are hyper carnivores above lions and tigers. The ph in our stomach is the same as vultures 1.3-1.5. Let it be known from here on that Dr Melanie Joy is a quack.

[@sundragon13]

​@@MaynardsSpaceshipwe are definitely not naturally herbivores 😂 you're the one believing lies meant to make us sick

[@PostFinasterideSyndromeNorway]

@@MaynardsSpaceship we didnt evolve eating salads dude lmao. we evolved eating meat.

[@2r380]

I eat lamb, fish and eggs once a week and it works for me. No beef no pork and no dairy.

[@henah9810]

I absolutely love this! Love how you go into detail about the psychological impact that labeling can have on oneself and how prevalent it is. Can't wait for more of your videos Mona 💗

[@joelleavelino3595]

It’s not about what you eat, it’s about healing the mind and regulating an over active nervous system and understanding the mind body connection. The more you worry about food it just raises your stress levels that caused the gut issues in the first place making everything worst. DNRS was a programme I did to rewire my brain followed with a lot of Dr Joe Dispenzas work and Dr John Sarno which were life changers. I am on no diet I eat healthy, have a spiritual practice, I pray and meditate everyday and I’m the best I have ever been in years. I pray this speaks to someone ❤

[@TheRealMe333]

This comment should be pinned at the top! Well said!

[@spirituallysafe]

Which god are you praying to?

[@alliswell8119]

Very important point you are making. Dr. John Sarno is a Hero in my book and has changed/saved many lives (including mine). Well said.

[@AlmostHeaven89]

Before I even saw the title, I was like wow Mona looks amazing right now! I don’t know what it is but there’s a youthful glow about you added, and I didn’t know you could be any prettier! Followed you forever, so happy for you! Same story I have! 🥂 stopped labeling, do and try what works and keep changing throughout life just like you said :-)

[@CheyenneRosero]

I was scared to look at the comments section, but im happy to see the positivity! Good for you for being strong enough to make this video! ♥️

[@tinknal6449]

There are so many ex vegan videos out there now I think the veganistas gave up.

[@CKeim1986]

Comment section made me sad realizing how many people don't understand what the word "vegan" means. If you ate plant based and you don't now, that doesn't mean you were vegan. That means you were plant based. The second you went back to eating animal products you eliminated the concept of ever even thinking you were vegan.

[@CheyenneRosero]

@@CKeim1986 her health was suffering and she is trying to make responsible decisions now that she is eating meat. I respect your appreciation for animals but am disappointed in your lack of sympathy for a human’s health and well being.

[@tinknal6449]

@@CKeim1986 "yOU wERe nEVeR VegAN iN tHe fIRsT plACE" is the classic vegan cult troll response. 74% 0f vegans abandon the cult, often due to poor health outcomes, second, it destroys any argument about how many actual "vegans" exist.

[@tinknal6449]

@@CheyenneRosero Like any other cult, they can't stand it when one escapes.

[@foxxyloxxyxo]

Hey Mona.. I followed a vegetarian then eventually transitioned to a plant based diet for 14 years. Then this past March I started following a Carnivore diet to help me with my chronic migraines. Cutting out all carbs and sugars helped me tremendously with my chronic migraines.. no migraines.. my neurologist was excited about my results. At the end of 100 days of doing that I started adding a bit of fruit and veggies , and immediate migraine attack for the next 2 weeks. Also my stomach was always bloated.. so long story short.. I feeling my best at the moment.. so my point is to do what is best for you and your health..

[@weich1q2w]

I would pass on some bone broth/raw milk if you can and then start with fermented veggies (sauerkraut) and see how you do. Eventually can read some veggies and see what happens. Fruit is also great and probably won’t cause the issues like regular veggies do

[@foxxyloxxyxo]

@@weich1q2w Not really interested at the moment in adding fermented foods especially sauerkraut as it can cause some issues of bloating. I ate sauerkraut when I was pkantbased and it still did not fix my issue. About a month ago, I had some berries ( blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) while visiting my family and as long as I have a small amount, I am ok.. I have made my own broth and it was good. Everyone is different. Migraines are a neurological disease and what works for one person does not necessarily work for another.As for raw milk.. maybe at some point.. I personally have never been a fan of milk..

[@AuntieFairy]

When muscles around the shoulder start to atrophy, TAP out. I no longer can wear a shoulder bag without in falling off. Good that you are rebuilding!

[@Liesl_Cigarboxguitar]

You know, you mirror me and my experience precisely. I find myself only rating fish and meat about twice in a month. My hair has stopped falling now too. Thank you so much ♥️

[@rachd4794]

I’ve tried so many elimination diets and none of them have helped. I personally think digestive issues (and chronic symptoms/illnesses in general) is due to stress. Not just acute stress but chronic stress (i.e. trauma). The more I’m working on calming down my nervous system, the less bloated I’ve been. I eat mostly healthy foods but it’s not “clean”. Diets may help in the short term, but the root cause is the sympathetic nervous system being activated for too long. The mind (conscious and subconscious) body connection is very strong!

[@shinebright048]

The best comment, agree

[@Isabel838]

Honesty goes above and beyond. I am happy for you!

[@aaronmerkel5216]

she is honest about her animal abuse

[@Filthycoffin]

I tried it for a month it made me really sick destroyed my gut aged me very quickly. Hair fall out, joint pain, Candida, sibo and sifo. It’s about balance. Damn this is like watching myself on KZbin. I went to functional drs and pretty much paid to teach them. They had never heard of gaps they never heard of H2S sibo so doing it myself. Your braver than me to eat out. I’m supposed to go to a lunch on the 24th but it’s food being catered and I’m terrified of food I’ve no control over if it’s grass fed etc. the only diet I’ve not tried is Jordan Rubin’s Makers Diet.

[@tanyasalve1534]

You’re amazing for being so open to share this & im so grateful for your honestly. Much love & more power 🥰

[@victorialouise9758]

I loved watching this because I am going through the same thing at present with fixing my gut health, the ailments I’ve suffered since my gut health took a turn. I’m so glad you’re back!

[@cosandraodame7623]

I agree that veganism has a lot to do with animals. I'm a vegan because it works best for me and my body. I don't want to put a dead animal in my body. These are just my moral beliefs. I've been a vegan for about 10 years and I'm doing absolutely marvelous. When I was going through menopause I felt nothing I've been able to keep a balanced diet and my health is outstanding and I made 55. It's not for everyone so I respect your decision.

[@josie4peace]

💖

[@RC-qf3mp]

There are tiny animals crawling on your skin, in your butt, in your eye lids, ears, etc. animals are all over and around us, eating other animals and getting eaten. It is part of the natural cycle of life from billion of years of evolution. Veganism is a religious fanaticism that promotes hatred of natural life, like a repressive religious prudery hostile towards healthy sexual life. I hope you get the help you need.

[@amaliadunham]

Me too. I just began eating chicken breast, fish, and eggs. The reason why is that I was losing muscle mass and tons of my previous healthy abundant hair, besides that I was losing weight.

[@moniquejohnson3855]

You are always honest about your journey which is why I enjoy your content!

[@globalcitizen6309]

You are a brave girl Mona 💙 It is not about giving yourself a label, it is about finding what works for you and your body and it is very true that we evolve and things may change. I started pesco vegetarian in 2019 then moved into Vegan later the same year then moved to plant based + fish late 2020 and as much as I do not like eating meat for multiple reasons I am aware that there is a possiblity of having to change and adjust again in the future. I totally agree that we can still choose to eat clean whatever diet we choose and that is important. Thank You for all your great work. Please keep up the great work and all the best with whatever comes next on your way 💙

[@alvynikole9037]

Happy for you! I started following you right before I went pescatarian early 2020 before covid was a thing in the US. And I was first just looking up smoothie videos and ended up loving your content. I've now evolved to simply a clean eating and living lifestyle this year and I'm happy you're doing the same. Looking forward to your new content. Much love from TX

[@YRSLM]

Welcome back!!

[@PlantlifeShaye]

Girl… live your best life and enjoy.. I’ve followed you for a while. You’re an inspiration either way. 😊

[@angieb4631]

It is very brave of you to come forward that you are no longer vegan. I am also an exvegan. It took time, but after 3 years, I was at my heaviest because I was always hungry even though I ate 3000 calories a day in rice, beans, pastas, smoothies and vegetables. It turned out I had so many deficiencies and that's why I think I was so hungry all the time. Going keto, eating 1800 calories a day, I was completely satiated and healed my hormones and deficiencies... Oh my gosh, my hair stopped falling out and no more PMS! It's been amazing to not think about food all the time. I hope you find your healing path and what works for you.

[@YadiMcVey]

I’m so excited for this content!! My gut is begging for help! ❤

[@BollywoodMediaOnline]

SO glad you are finally back on KZbin ❤

[@DrMonaVand]

🙂🙂🙂

[@cmadridk]

I honestly always wondered how you were able to eat all the veggies and grains you showed and and how you could digest properly. Especially with the lower fat aspect. It looked like a lot of roughage. Thank you for not slandering veganism. I’m not vegan but it’s annoying when former vegans denounce it completely. It’s still the kind diet for a reason. Thanks for sharing ❤

[@JnTmarie]

It took me time to get used to eating beans and raw veggies but now I digest easily. It’s a process. Never been healthier and look better. Doctors are amazed

[@Kthomasritchie]

The kind diet isn't remotely as kind as you believe it to be.

[@arambarsamian6312]

@@JnTmarie the digestion issues some people experience aren’t the fault of veganism or of plant foods. Rather, they are because one’s microbiota has thitherto been fashioned to digest processed foods and/or animal foods. The gut bacteria that digest fiber and resistant starch need to be cultivated somewhat slowly, over time. Little by little, as one eats more fiber and resistant starch, one is preferentially selecting for bacteria that feed on them and starving bacteria that feed on meat. This is what normal human digestion is. After all, most of our cousins, the great apes, eat a 99% plant-based diet.

[@pcoop830]

Thank you for being so honest and vulnerable. You don’t owe anyone a justification about your life. I’m glad to see that you are feeling healthier. Thank you for taking us along on your journey.

[@DrMonaVand]

❤❤❤

[@aaronmerkel5216]

She is going back to a life of animal exploitation and cruelty when there is no reason to. Why thank her? She is just hopping on the latest trend of ex-veganism.

[@flower1990-B]

Being honest doesn t mean you are vulnerable..😂😂😂😂

[@flowconyoliz]

Yeeeees!!! I’m so happy you are speaking about your experience and sharing wisdom. I’m going through a similar situation and I’m also coming to the conclusion that we’re constantly changing and evolving. Our bodies are so smart and sense what they need and I’ve learned to nourish it in the way I know works best for me. I love your sincerity and the way you lead others along side you! 💕✨

[@zarag6842]

♥♥"...if we're not changing, that's weird," I think that's what we need to keep reminding ourselves as humans living different chapters of our life

[@hopegeorgantis6737]

I’ve been vegan for years and have had no health issues. My blood work has been regular every year and never was before i went vegan. I know it’s not for everyone but i went vegan for the animals and i can’t imagine suddenly eating murdered animals again that just makes me so sad to think about… anyways you do you just my thoughts as a vegan. Also think there’s a difference between just eating a plant based diet and actually living a vegan lifestyle. Sure I get your point about labels but Veganism is more than just a diet it’s a way of life, being kind to animals, using vegan products as much as you can, etc. Not here to judge anyone just my thoughts. Much love. ☮️

[@josie4peace]

💖

[@elenabicova5877]

I am so happy and grateful that you have talked honestly! I am following you for a long time, and gives a lesson to a lot of people ❤️

[@joeyjonesSoCal]

Veganism is not a diet. It’s a lifestyle/philosophy. I’m vegan for the animals only. Not climate change, not bc it was trendy at one point, for the animals. And when you make that connection, you never go back. I get bloated too, but I find solutions or wait it out. You were plant based now you’re not, and that’s fine- you’re not the first or last person to do this, but calling veganism a diet is disingenuous. Plant-based, however, is a diet that one can break or modify etc. With respect and kindness. 🙏🏼🤲🏼

[@AC-yb9ml]

Thank you for this comment!!! I find myself frustrated with people who say they are no longer vegan, when they are only plant based. Been vegan over 35 years for the animals. I take this seriously and it means no animal products at all. Not for my clothes, skincare, cleaners etc. If you’re eating “vegan” but wear leather shoes….you’re plant based. You’re dieting.

[@mdslax0172]

People can change, your perceptions can change, the way you view the meaning of life can all change. It happens all the time everyday. After all these years, even you, might eat meat again. There are many others that have quit veganism, originally involved for the animals. You just never know what the future holds

[@joeyjonesSoCal]

@@mdslax0172 No, Because I am committed - this philosophy, (caring for all sentient beings) is one I hold dear to my heart. This isn’t a hairstyle, or clothing overhaul that one might change seasonally, it’s permanent fixture in my life. 🙏🏼

[@DrMonaVand]

Thank you.. i respect this and won’t refer to it as that moving forward ❤

[@mdslax0172]

@@joeyjonesSoCal thats very admirable and I wish you the best

[@LaToyah601]

Thanks for sharing. I'm going through this as well.

[@elles2190]

Love love love this! Excited of what is to come on your channel! ❤

[@karishmam5380]

While i may not be vegan i will say i was “vegetarian” for a year and definitely was very tired/dizzy and a lot of hair fall. Once i reincorporated meat back into my diet, all those problems did stop. I now cook with all veggies, meats, and make sure my plate is colorful with veggies, lean protein and complex carbs and it works great for me! You have to soak your nuts, carbs approximately to make sure you can make it digestible and avoid bloating. Vegan based protein options are out there, but they aren’t a “complete protein” so you have to pair it with the correct carb to get the missing amino acid. At the end of the day, you have to do what’s right for you and can’t be living out there for everyone else’s opinions..

[@danalombardi8068]

Does soaking your grain help? I try to eat the complex carbs but they bother me a lot.

[@yoylos3p]

I think some veggies and fruits bloat her, as they bloat me and many others. That’s why many of us can’t have colorful plates with what’s considered healthy, based on misconceptions. Some of us do better on more restricted diets, with minimum to no veggies or fruits. It’s sad but real. I’m glad you were able to find what works for you.

[@karishmam5380]

@@danalombardi8068 you have to google up what’s the soaking time for it, i also suggest you purchase high quality grains that are usda organic and lest processed. But i soak all my legumes and grains, and i love it

[@balkaranmahabir8557]

U were naturslly sick, mentally. Im vegan 55 out out of my 63 yrs life. Ive never seen a doctor in my entire life. N i hit the gym daily. No negativities in my words, thoughts deefs. But respect to all. Hii fr tnt west indies. Ohh elephants r vegan. U judge.

[@danalombardi8068]

I do buy the best quality I can buy but I don’t soak. I will try that but I think with some of my digestive issues I could be struggling with that too.

[@andrea_kroess]

Thank you so much for your words! I stopped to be a vegan three months ago and I personally can say , Im feeling so much better now! I was vegan for seven years very strict with myself and I ate like a whole foods vegan not a junk food vegan. But I lost so many hair, I was exhausted, bad skin and psychologically I was constantly in a bad mood! So good to hear your opinion and your experience! Best wishes from Italy Andrea 🤍

[@ebonystrother7860]

I've missed your videos & insight!!! So glad you are back! Really appreciate the update & honesty!

[@PriesterinDesLichts]

Good for you!!! I was vegan for 10 years myself, I tried everything, but my body needs animal foods. I actually think all humans need animal foods to thrive. There are many nutrients that are lacking in plants. I am practicing an ancestral, traditional way of eating now.

[@veronicacastillo2035]

Thank you so much for making this video. I can relate so much. Your honesty about your struggle is exactly what I've been going through. Trying to find what food lifestyle suits me has been a challenge. I've decided on a low carb diet for myself. I've lost 10lbs and hope to keep it going. Thanks again. 😊

[@beckybecky1725]

Veganism is not a diet

[@brea7916]

Hi, Mona. Thank you for your bravery with this video. I know it took courage to do! I too have experienced some of the issues (loss of hair, stomach bloat, etc ) that you mentioned after now hitting the 6-7 year mark of being plant based. I was considering adding a bone broth protein powder to my daily intake as I don't think I could mentally handle the taste of meat fish or eggs being consumed in the traditional way. Question for you. Did you experience any stomach pain, acne etc when reintroducing non plant based foods back into your lifestyle? When I would some years ago do 30-60 days w/o meat and dairy then go back to it, my stomach would tremendously hurt and I got acne. Also, now when I've accidentally eaten something that had cross contamination, acne would pop up within and hour as well as gas, stomach pains etc. Or was your transition back to those things smooth? If anyone else, can answer this too, I'd appreciate it. Thanks so much!

[@helenahandkart1857]

It may be that after long plant only eating, your stomach acid is low. Try a general digestive enzyme with your meals, & start sparingly adding in bone broth, meat broth, yoghurt, or baked goods with eggs &/or dairy. As you re-adapt, add in more, actual red meat, fish, poultry, poached eggs, milk, cheese, etc.

[@mariannachiero2729]

I really feel like people should stop labeling who they are and concentrate on non processed foods. Balancing your diet of whole food organic is key. Trying all these diets and not getting an answer can cause more stress. I have been on every diet that you have mentioned as well. Best diet is common sense and balance. Good luck on your health journey.

[@yaqinhamdan9775]

love this and you Mona. You're such a genuine person and it shows.

[@the.levelup.mindset]

Thank you for speaking about this honestly and in a calm and loving way :) I can’t help but notice a pattern in most of the “I am no longer vegan” videos. People become plant based thinking it will make them 100% healthy and beautiful and perfect etc. And when they realise it is not this magical diet, they start incorporating further restrictions into their diet which messes with their health. As with any diet, nutrition is important and if you are restricting, you will have to find ways of adding nutrition back to where it is lost. I have been personally vegan for 10 years and thriving. But I have also made sure to eat a variety of foods and never restrict myself with different diet fads or by eating mostly bananas or watermelons and salad (which is what I have heard in two other “I am no longer vegan” videos). Sending love to everyone and please think of the animals and our planet too ;) x

[@SW-mp4qj]

So true and I see it this way also as a long term vegan who has seen people come and go! You have to be in it for the right reasons, animals. If you’re in it for primarily other things, to lose weight, follow a trend, try it out, etc it just won’t last long term.

[@josie4peace]

@@SW-mp4qj 💖

[@annetteherrera2813]

This was very helpful. I have the exact same distending. I’ve recently added eggs & I am vegan for 15 yrs. You’re right, things do change. I totally got everything you were saying. I too, thought that my vegan diet can be attributed to this bloating. I’m tiny as well so I know what you mean. Thank you for sharing this. I did stop eating any imitation meat products. After doing a lot of research I see how bad they are for you.

[@laylajohnson8899]

Instead of eating junk, just stick to whole foods. Maybe junk vegan foods was causing ur bloating

[@aliciacarmona5004]

@@laylajohnson8899no the same thing happened to my son after becoming vegan everything I made was homemade no junk food we was eating healthy he was only 7 years old after a couple of years until he was 14 years old my son was so sick we never ate junk food even before becoming vegans. He was bloated pale didn’t grow enough constantly sick we took our vitamins and B12 too. He developed GI problems I had no choice but to return to the diet we had before is Carnivores eggs Pasture raised organic and meat grass Fed Gradually started feeling better. He was always slim . Vegan diet cause my son a lot of damage especially in his development .

[@enjoythemomenttravel]

I tried vegan since my 20's twice, but everytime my energy dropped, my hemoglobin got too low, needed more B12, so doctors said I need to eat meat for my health & take B12, I love animals, can't look at dead animals so for my psychology, same I eat humane, grass fed, free from type meat & eggs, means no hormones or no antibiotics here in Canada, more wild caught fish, free range bird & some grass fed, pasture red meat. But 4 times a week or every other day. I try to eat balanced meals, less carbs, but multi grain with protein & or low or no sugar food. I eat vegan when I feel like it, as you said, a nice big crunchy, fresh salad always tastes good. We need to intuitively know what we need individually & eat whats best for us. And yes eat fresh clean, whole food is better for us. It is a journey always... no worries, been through all you have said & I'm mid age & look 10 years younger & same size as age 20. No processed food if possible & try to avoid fast food if possible, I feel like crap after i eat it anyway. Yesss no stress in life also & good sleep 7-8 hours.

[@carolvillanueva488]

Hello Ms. Dr. Mona! Welcome back to YT again. We’ve missed you dearly. You’ve inspired and helped me in so many ways. Thank you. Hugs from PNW!🙏🥰❤️

[@DrMonaVand]

Happy to be back!:)

[@mychanellife1]

can you do a new "what i eat in a day" for ur new gut health diet?

[@DrMonaVand]

Sure

[@officialseaside6746]

Thank you for this video. Did concerns about fertility in any way contribute to your decision to add animal protein back into your diet?

[@rivkahmoinzadeh6626]

This is one of the most relatable videos I have ever watched! Thank you for putting this out!

[@Ludhianvitravel]

Today my heart is broken 😢

[@Eoinmariposa]

Veganism is about the animals, not diet, you were just plant based

[@Crazycorn2]

Yeah, no.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/sIXbkJdupcaoacU

[@Assassin99584]

No true Scotsman fallacy and hypocrisy

[@SeanJGreen]

@@Assassin99584 it’s not no true scotsman if it’s just the definition.

[@Assassin99584]

@@SeanJGreen it is a no true Scotsman fallacy

[@krampus5546]

Freelee fan 2023

[@PercyDays]

I am slowly changing my lifestyle to plant-based lifestyle, and this video is awesome and so honest. This video hasn't changed my mind about going plant-based, but it does make me want to look into grass fed and grass finished meats.

[@marshabearman5594]

Thanks, DR. Mona! Your sincerity is what really counts! BLESSINGS!

[@DrMonaVand]

Thank you ❤

[@Gabby.3xo]

Loving this new journey for you! Thank you for the honesty and being so open about your experience. I also loved how informative this video was, I learned a lot about what we should be looking for when buying our meats & fish so thank you! I would love to see a ‘what I eat in a day’ updated version ❤

[@x3AnnyLinh]

Thank you for sharing and making this video. Would love to see you share more of these kinds of topics =)

[@cathystrailcam]

Hi Mona! Glad you are giving yourself the space to see what works for you. My family doctor recommended a book called “Anatomy of Anxiety” and it is a great mix of eastern and western medicine and ideas. Think you might like it! I learned so much from reading this book.

[@2eyeluvmac2]

Thank you for your transparency. I wish you well on your journey.

[@Eduk8beauty]

Love this entire video! It was so relatable - I’ve had the exact same experience and so happy just to see that you are so happy and healthy.😊

[@janejustin1788]

These comments are just what I expected. The veganism cult members bashing Mona because she decided to eat animal products. I don't know why so many vegans are so hateful

[@parisabanks1333]

As a Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, I truly appreciate you making this video. I have been a vegetarian and part of that time , vegan for over 25 years and have raised my children the same way (although 2 of them are now experimenting with meat a tiny bit). I have terrible bloating even with all the gut supplements. I have been considering introducing red meat (grass fed of course) to my diet. As far as fish, because of what is going on with them mixing GMO salmon with wild caught, I am going to stay away from that but I get omega in other ways and Sea moss has also been amazing for mineral supplementation in my diet. You look fab btw!!!! I too, used to live in LA. now, an hour north of Miami. LA. is generally more judgemental and fake (not to mention not the brightest people in the world) so I don't really care about their opinion one bit.

[@cheesycool]

going carnivore would fix all of your gut issues in weeks. you’ll feel the bloat gone in literally days. it cured so many health problems including several gut issues. there are so many who have done the same. its the plants unfortunately

[@WiolettaTuschnio]

I was terribly bloated all those years being vegan and decided to introduce some animal products in my diet too to see if that helps my gut! I think I should address that in my next video actually...

[@katiecribbs8863]

Love this more candid and relatable side that you’ve been sharing! ❤ I just started eating chicken for health reasons (soy, pea and fish allergies) after being vegan and vegetarian for 15 years. It was so hard at first but I feel so much better

[@mrgovin1285]

Feel sorry for you and the poor chicken

[@janieswanson2549]

@@mrgovin1285 But you don't feel sorry for the cows and pigs?

[@mariharrik5987]

@@mrgovin1285 please feel more sympathy for fellow human

[@lorenasturlese]

I had to stop being vegan after 6 years to restore my gut. Leaky gut caused inflammation in my bloodstream which evolved into fibromyalgia. My endocrinologist explained that not everyone’s metabolism is adapted to agriculture foods: cereal, grains, even dairy… The gut makes an effort to digest over the years until it can’t anymore and leaky gut appears. Then, chronic issues start. It took a whole year after I changed my diet to start feeling better. Now I feel a huge difference and I’m so thankful for my doctor who guided me in the right direction.

[@helenahandkart1857]

Thanks for sharing this. I'd been suspecting there may often be a link. Your doctor sounds fantastic. 👍

[@redbriarn6295]

Thank goodness someone is not afraid of being herself and choosing a healthy lifestyle… thank you so much

[@JnTmarie]

So wrong get educated. Eating animals, cow growth hormones milk, processed foods, high salt and high fat will kill you and the planet. Go back but don’t say eating vegan meat and dairy is good. Do barre and ballet classes to build your butt. I did it. WFPB vegan for health and the planet.

[@redbriarn6295]

@@JnTmarie did you eat meat, eggs and drink milk when you were younger?

[@Ambergris24]

Seeds are hard to digest if gut heath is compromised. even if juicing the berries or seeds. Good luck and thank you for your honesty. I just stopped being vegan this week after 4 years tried everything I could before giving in and adding grass fed beef back to my diet. Tried giving up refined carbs and intermittent fasting , juicing vegetables daily , protein drinks daily , then eliminated protein shakes thinking it had something in it not agreeing with me. So it’s interesting one of my favorite you tubers is going through this transition at the same time as myself. Good Luck and I do hope you feel better !

[@veritystothard1664]

You’re so right about the labelling, I wish my younger self had seen it that way. I stayed vegan almost 2 years longer than I really should, pushing through all kinds of health issues, all because I was so afraid how people would judge me if I didn’t live up to that label. In the end, i got nothing but support and understanding ♥️

[@jadenemet4527]

You were never vegan you were a plant-based poser. I used a plant-based diet to heal MS so idk what you were doing wrong but raw whole food plant-based diets heal pretty much anything. It's people that focus on the label and not the purpose that make the rest of us look bad. Stop saying you used to be vegan it confuses the message. Say you used to eat a plant-based diet

[@beeatr1cee]

@@jadenemet4527you don’t know anything about her, so how can you say that she was not vegan?? the only thing she said is that having a vegan diet caused her health issues, which is something i can relate to. you don’t know the thing she was wearing, buying or the things she used to do to have a vegan lifestyle. you know nothing about her so stop judging.

[@janieswanson2549]

@@beeatr1cee We know she wasn't because she used animal products the entire time. Now she has went off her fad religion diet.

[@CKeim1986]

LMFAO 🤣

[@janieswanson2549]

@Wallaby Wrechords You're confusing being on the diet with practicing the doctrine. Two different words.

[@randomstreetrd196]

Thank you for sharing… I’m on the same journey and I’m still not where I’d like to be… but I’m getting better week by week. Please continue to share… very encouraging… I’m hoping to find my solution… thanks again!

[@IndigoRoses7]

I'm so happy for you. Quitting veganism after almost 5 years was the best decision for me. I went vegan for health reasons, and quit for health reasons. I respect those who choose veganism for ethical reasons..but I also think long term veganism is VERY difficult to sustain. To those who stay vegan, and it works for you..that's great. I just hope vegans can understand that it is not sustainable for everyone

[@rebeccaj.m.4720]

Great Video ! Thanks you for your Story! I had a similar experience years ago and now i am into Gaps / traditional eating .. did keto a lot which helped me recover from the vegan Lifestyle. Being vegan I had the badest skin ever, lost hair, was bloated all the time, hungry all the time and finally developed a fatty liver from all the fruits i ate. I never ate the fake vegan option, i was 100% strict on everything vegan+gluten free .. it was crazy. Today i focus on good quality animal food.. and still eat more veggies than most of the people i know. Do bonebroth!!! Sending you lots of Love from Germany ❤

[@keekeemaree4391]

Vegan for 9 years 🙋🏽‍♀️ but have been seriously considering experimenting lately. I got tired of feeling bloated and uncomfortable so I started eating less fiber and more protein but I don't feel like the processed vegan protein options are healthy. Can you please help by expanding on what you eat to combate that? I see the animal protein, oils, and cooked berries, but is that it? Thank u for making this video, it really hits home for me 🫶🙏

[@ennvee1989]

Stop malnourishing yourself it's not worth it

[@MikkiElias]

You were plant based, veganism is not a diet. How could you be Vegan for the animals and then wanting to “experiment” eating dead corpses again ?! Poor animals

[@MrYufu221]

Thank you for a great video. I was a vegan for the last 18 months but now I stopped it as well due to my weak gut and digestion problem. A quick question, why are you also avoiding nuts? I recently have been eating a lot of nuts and I feel my stomach can not digest it very well. Did you have the same problem?

[@spreadthemessage15]

Just a tip,,,if you really love your nuts try soaking them in water for a few hours before eating them. This will make it easier for your body to digest. I learnt this from a book called Beauty Chef Gut Guide 👍🏼👏🏼

[@raeraemillstone]

So grateful you are talking about this. I stopped being "plant based" for the same reason. My gut health. Thanks for opening up

[@CKeim1986]

Doesn't even make sense. Maybe try not being like a trash can vegan and try eating accurate whole foods.

[@raeraemillstone]

@@CKeim1986 isn't part of being vegan being kind? ... try that out .. have a great day

[@MaynardsSpaceship]

I find it so ironic that people begin eating animal products again "for their gut health". What in animals is restoring the gut?

[@raeraemillstone]

@@MaynardsSpaceship Is that a rhetorical question or are you actually curious?

[@mariharrik5987]

@@raeraemillstone what about being kind to humans who are sick because of veganism you can not be kind to animals if you arent kind to you fellow humans

[@franriccardi8649]

Great to see you again!

[@DC-ef8op]

Please do a what you eat in a day video❤

[@raginisharma9302]

Well I started vegan/ plant based diet meaning variety of greens with healthy fats as an experiment and for me it really worked even though I am 95% vegan since I do take clarified butter . For me ,the biggest benefit was that I was able to cure my chronic sinus which troubled me for good 10 years. Plus I see that I don’t get cold/cough due to an improved immunity. And I am a skinny person just like you and so I did lose weight which made me anxious but then It seemed I wasn’t substituting the right foods after eliminating dairy . After the right replacement, I regained my normal weight and am determined to gain few more . Also my periods are healthier than before so it did work for me. Last but not the least , my skin looks good. And so no looking back for me. Having said that, I do understand everyone is different so one should do what works for them and not follow suit unnecessarily. Enjoy watching your videos- wish you good health ❤

[@MysteriousBeingOfLight]

Also want to mention that I went Vegan before a lot of time and the cravings are just your body and soul asking for the lost nutrients ! I have a friend who live on an island and she literally cant be vegetarian. We need to listen to our body no matter what !

[@Lila17_]

No, that’s what u call purging. Your body is purging from eating animals. Animals that we eat gives us cholesterol, digestive problems, and heart problems. And the body is so amazing that it gets used to all the bad stuff, that when u switch to being vegan or vegetarian we get sick for a while. But it’s just your body purging all the bad , it won’t last forever. That’s when the vitamins and nutrients from the plants and vegetables really kick in and benefits us a ton more. We feel more awake and have more energy. We weren’t meant to eat animals, we are herbivores. We’re literally the only species that have to cook animals in order for us not to get sick. Real carnivores don’t do that and it’s actually bad for them. Our teeth aren’t even shaped like the carnivores. I recommend u watch Gary yourofsky, he goes in depth about this. He’s honestly the reason why I turned vegan , and my life never been better. I no longer suffer from nerve problems and am no longer low on iron.

[@MysteriousBeingOfLight]

@@Lila17_ I know that, but I am not allowed to be vegan anymore my family refuse. Am vegetarian doing the BEST I CAN in abusive situation, I don't want to eat animals but i cannot avoid dairy

[@Lila17_]

@@MysteriousBeingOfLight I’m very sorry to hear that but it doesn’t seem like your family is a positive influence for you. Sometimes we need to cut off family that don’t serve our highest purpose. It’s very sad but it’s the case for some people, if your family loves you they would respect your eating habits and lifestyle in any way. It’s the same with friends, we sometimes have to learn who really loves us and who doesn’t. And love don’t treat us like that. You can learn to cook your own food while they cook their own, or u can work on moving out.❤️ wish you luck

[@MysteriousBeingOfLight]

@@Lila17_ I am disabled non autonomous and i'm living with family for my survival

[@MysteriousBeingOfLight]

@@Lila17_ My dad forbid me to cook, he wants me to throw me outside and be homeless. If i make noise when he watch TV i am done

[@AmysSewingRoom]

Welcome back to KZbin! I love your videos and honestly. I did like your video with Amoila Cesar (he’s a great trainer- that was interesting too.

[@samanthaj5366]

Hi Mona, I can relate to your story, I too have tried so many different diets including a vegan diet, due to health reasons, has I suffer from ulcerative colitis . My question to you is, can you still drink and tolerate your morning green smoothie ?

[@cammackey]

Proud of you doc, miss you!

[@maynardewm]

I've been vegan for 10 years and I don't think I could ever eat meat again. It would gross me out too much. I have been thinking about going vegetarian instead though. But omg I think I would have a hard time even doing that. I definitely wouldn't go out of my way to drink like a glass of cows milk for example, or eat a pizza with real cheese even. But I could maybe just not worry if there's a dish that has a dairy based something.

[@cassandrasmom]

Your brain will feel alive again with animal products

[@shinebright048]

@@cassandrasmomwell my brain was dead when I was eating animal products. And based on what I’ve notices in my family and friends they all get sick and are more over weight than me.

[@shinebright048]

You sound like me 😂, I’ve been vegan for 10 years and was vegetarian for 12 years before that. I don’t have health issues but would like to go vegetarian just to have more options when traveling but thinking about it grosses me out

[@catmer9460]

So then what does your stomach look like now? It shrunk and the bloating has gone away?

[@fiodotcomm]

My gut health was incredible on a vegan diet, and I STILL quit vegan after 5 years bc my energy levels were horribly low. Depression thru the roof 😫

[@eXolusiatious]

so because you didn't eat enough calories that justifies slitting throats?

[@attilanemeth8215]

@@eXolusiatious slitting throats of animals yeah we minimize suffering.

[@twinkly6579]

​@@eXolusiatious Why are you assuming it's because of a lack of calories? I'm experiencing the same issue after 8 years of vegan and it's not because of a lack of calories. I am literally overweight because I only feel half okay when I eat 2500+ calories. I had a lot of salmon and eggs yesterday and my brain fog and incredible diziness have finally reduced. I've been assuming it was my vegan diet for a while now because of starting to intensely crave animal products that I've never even enjoyed the eating experience of. I decided to stay vegan until now anyway because I thought worse health was preferable over causing more animals deaths than strictly necessary to be alive. I followed Dr Greger's daily dozen really closely and spent hundreds of hours looking into nutrition, hoping to figure out what I could do to stay vegan. The most vegan-friendly doctors I found weren't able to help either (they weren't vegan themselves and told me to just go back to eating animals). I wasn't able to find a doctor vegan or plant-based doctor in my area. I finally caved yesterday because I'm in the middle of my exam period with insane brain fog and close to being kicked out of school because of bad results and I really wish I didn't have to.

[@evabarbarabongard2809]

I am all with you. Eating clean is the goal!

[@mandibice4437]

Thank you for sharing!! I was “vegan” for years. I made a switch when my hair started breaking off! You do what’s best for you!

[@newuser4464]

Thank you four your honest evolution 🙏

[@koolpebble]

Veganism is more than just about eating non-animal products. Veganism is about not using products that contain animal parts or animal byproducts--whether it be skincare or clothing. I guess it's a movement created out of the love of animals. So, if you're eating all plant-based but still using products made from animals, you're not vegan. Rather, you're a vegetarian. A lot of people get confused about this. The confusion is widespread in L.A. Some people are like "I'm mainly vegan but I'll have some meat once in awhile." Nope. You're either vegan or you're not. There's no in-between.

[@Assassin99584]

No true Scotsman fallacy and hypocrisy

[@peachoxo4099]

Ok? Still humans are omnivore we need meat or even just eggs/butter, probably why 80%+ "vegans" get sick and quit. It's a stupid ideology that is slowly bit surely dying out.

[@jorgesmith911]

@@Assassin99584 thank you! Such a Scotsman fallacy!

[@duploticus]

So how does vegan ideology come to terms with the mass extermination of beetles/rodents/pollinators/worms/etc in the production of all the plant products they eat?

[@koolpebble]

@@duploticus Great question. Explore that topic and share it.

[@traceyrobinson7554]

I'm a farmer in the UK I'm so please you changed your views the farming community is suffering so much

[@dr.sarah.zaldivar]

Mona, I'm sorry you had to go through this. I went through the plant-based phase as well until I discovered the carnivore diet. Who knew humans are supposed to just eat meat🤯. My nutrition academic background simply brainwashed me further away from health and I had to struggle before finally finding food freedom on carnivore. I hope you find the same kind of healing 💕

[@vanamarkarian]

Excited to see ur new what I eat in a day video

[@zarelli7831]

I left veganism yesterday

[@ascendwithabby]

Missed your full KZbin videos SOOOO MUCH!! Sending lots of love ❤

[@rkeit002]

Thank you for being so relatable. I hate labels and I went thru so much trynna be me n not wat ppl think I should be. I myself incorporated bone broth in my diet this year while vegan. I was getting heavily iron deficient and tried different ways nothing was helping. I dont know why I kept thinking I had to hide it from ppl but my loved ones could care less. Insane how we develop scenarios in our minds. Thank you again for sharing this.

[@pinkiepinkster8395]

You should have addressed your gut issues and consumed seaweed instead of agritortured baby animal guts. Read Dr Michael Greger's book How Not to Die and watch Dominion and Earthlings and Forks Over Knives and Cowspiracy and Seaspiracy and Eating our Way to Extinction and What the Health.

[@mariharrik5987]

@@pinkiepinkster8395 they are just propaganda and false science is there stop being judgmental and your advice will only make others sick

[@key2lyfe]

Grassfed Grass finished is Great, but regular red meat for local butcher is completely fine. I would suggest not eating chicken at all but if you do eat the fatty chicken like thighs or drum. Also add beef liver in your diet