Vegans take twice as many sick days as meat-eaters

Veganism is a lifestyle prized for its superior health benefits. Yet, according to one study, your vegan colleague takes twice as many sick days as the office carnivores.

According to one survey, vegans take almost five days off a year for flu, cold and other minor ailments – this is twice the national average.

Vegans also book more appointments with their doctor, seeing their GP on average 2.6 times during cold and flu season compared to the national average of 0.7 times, according to the Fisherman’s Friend annual cold and flu survey.

How many vegans are there in the UK?

There are 3.5 million vegans in the UK, according to one survey.

This works out to roughly seven per cent of the national population. This includes celebrity names such as Paul McCartney, Thandie Newton and Ellie Goulding.

What are the health benefits of being vegan?

While veganism may not prevent the common cold, the health and wellbeing benefits of a vegan lifestyle are said to include everything from clearer skin to a reduced risk of developing cancer.

Studies have also supported a vegan diet to improve your cardiovascular health and, oddly, to help you smell sweeter.

It has also been found going meat-free means you are less likely to be obese.

Finally, going vegan is said to help you live longer. A 2016 study suggests that a prolonged vegan diet could help to prevent approximately 8.1 million deaths a year.

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