Motivation for going vegan is varied, often stemming from ethical, environmental, or health-related concerns. For many, the commitment is lifelong. However, a lesser-discussed reality is the phenomenon of ex-vegans—people who, for various reasons, reintroduce animal products into their diet. While the shift can feel isolating, it offers valuable insights into the complexities of dietary change and personal wellness.
The Complex Picture of Dietary Recidivism
Discussions about vegans returning to meat often point to a widely publicized figure from a 2014 Faunalytics study suggesting that 84% of vegans and vegetarians abandon their diet. However, this statistic has been heavily criticized and put into context by sources like Plant Based News, noting that it included people who only tried a plant-based diet for a short period, sometimes less than three months. Many of these individuals were likely never fully committed to a long-term vegan identity.
In contrast, studies on long-term adherents, such as the EPIC-Oxford Study, show higher retention rates for those committed to the diet over several years. This indicates that there is a significant difference between short-term dietary experimentation and a long-term lifestyle change. The reality is more nuanced, with a mix of steadfast vegans, flexitarians, and those who eventually revert entirely.
Common Reasons Vegans Return to Eating Meat
The motivations for reverting are multifaceted and vary greatly from person to person. They can be broadly categorized into several key areas.
Nutritional Deficiencies and Health Concerns
A poorly planned vegan diet can lead to deficiencies that significantly impact health. The most commonly cited issues include:
- Vitamin B12: Found almost exclusively in animal products, B12 is vital for nerve function and blood cells. A long-term deficiency can lead to serious health problems, including anemia and fatigue. Many ex-vegans cite low energy levels as a primary reason for their change.
- Iron: While plant-based sources of iron exist, they are less bioavailable than iron from meat. Vegans need to be vigilant about their intake, and deficiency can result in fatigue.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Without dairy products, vegans must consciously seek out fortified foods or supplements to maintain bone health.
- Protein and Calories: Some people fail to adequately replace the protein and calorie density of meat, leading to constant hunger, unintentional weight loss, and fatigue.
Social and Cultural Pressures
Social isolation is a major factor, as food is often central to social and cultural gatherings.
- Family and Partners: Many individuals feel pressure from family members or partners, or find it difficult to cook separate meals for everyone.
- Social Isolation: Feeling like an outlier at restaurants, parties, or family dinners can take a toll over time. Some revert simply to feel more included and to avoid being the "black sheep".
- Cultural Identity: For those with deep-rooted cultural ties to meat-based dishes, abstaining can feel like a loss of heritage.
Cravings, Convenience, and Cost
- Taste and Cravings: Missing the taste and texture of meat, cheese, or eggs is a common driver. Cravings are not a sign of weakness but can be powerful physiological and psychological urges.
- Inconvenience: Despite the growing number of vegan options, finding suitable food can still be inconvenient, especially when traveling or in areas with limited choices.
- Cost: Depending on the approach, a vegan diet can be perceived as more expensive, particularly when relying on specialty vegan products rather than whole foods.
The Transition Back: Reintroducing Meat
For those who decide to reintroduce meat, doing so gradually and mindfully is key to avoiding digestive issues and managing the psychological shift.
- Start Slow: The digestive system needs time to adapt to a new dietary load of protein and fat. Starting with small, 2-3 ounce portions of lighter meats like fish or chicken is recommended.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body responds. Initial bloating or constipation is possible due to changes in digestion and gut flora.
- Bone Broth: For a very gentle reintroduction, some suggest starting with chicken or bone broth before consuming solid meat.
- Consider Ethical Sourcing: For those who initially went vegan for ethical reasons, opting for meat from pasture-raised, humane sources can help alleviate feelings of guilt.
Vegan Retention vs. Recidivism: A Comparison
| Factor | High Recidivism (Returning to Meat) | High Retention (Staying Vegan) |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition | Unplanned, reliance on processed foods, nutrient deficiencies (B12, iron) not addressed. | Well-planned, focuses on whole foods, regular supplementation (B12), and monitoring of nutrient intake. |
| Social Support | Feels isolated and unsupported by social circles; struggles to navigate social events centered on meat. | Finds community with other vegans; fosters open communication with non-vegan friends and family. |
| Cost & Convenience | Perceives veganism as expensive and time-consuming; struggles with limited options when dining out. | Focuses on affordable, whole-food staples like beans and lentils; learns to cook balanced, quick meals. |
| Psychological Factors | Rigid, all-or-nothing mindset; a single "slip" leads to feelings of failure and abandonment of the diet. | Adopts a more flexible approach, viewing dietary change as a gradual process; focuses on reduction rather than strict elimination. |
The "All or Nothing" Fallacy
One of the most important takeaways from research into dietary recidivism is the negative impact of an "all or nothing" mentality. Many people feel that if they break their vegan diet, even once, they have failed completely and should give up entirely. This perspective can undermine a person's resolve. Many ex-vegans who return to meat don't simply go back to their old habits; they often become more mindful consumers, perhaps adopting a flexitarian approach and significantly reducing their overall animal product consumption. Experts suggest that a focus on reduction rather than absolute elimination might be a more sustainable long-term strategy for many.
Conclusion: Navigating Personal Nutritional Needs
The journey away from veganism is a deeply personal one, driven by a combination of health needs, social pressures, and shifting personal priorities. While the reasons can be complex, reverting to eating meat does not mean that the experience was a failure. For many, it leads to a more balanced and nuanced understanding of their own nutritional requirements and a more realistic, flexible approach to diet. Whether an individual continues as a committed vegan, transitions to a flexitarian diet, or reintroduces meat entirely, the best path forward is one that prioritizes physical and mental health. For personalized guidance on dietary changes, consulting with a registered dietitian is always recommended. You can read more about planning a balanced diet from resources like Johns Hopkins Medicine.
