Veganism is often associated with ethics, health and environmental protection. But what if I told you that there are facts about veganism that you may never have thought of? 

This article will take you through ten shocking pieces of information that will change your perspective on this lifestyle. Prepare to be surprised - number 7 will really get you!

1. Veganism can save more than just animals

When you say veganism, most people think of animal protection. But did you know that switching to a plant-based diet can save human lives too? 

According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a global switch to a vegan diet could save up to 8 million lives a year by 2050. How? 

By reducing the incidence of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer, and by improving air quality through lower emissions from livestock production.

2. A plant-based diet is the secret to longevity

Did you know that some of the world's longest living communities, such as the people of Okinawa, Japan, or Loma Linda, California, have a diet rich in plant foods? 

These people eat minimal or no meat. Their secret? Beans, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats. 

So veganism is not just about protecting the planet, but also about extending your own life.

3. Veganism saves water - and lots of it!

One of the biggest environmental problems today is water scarcity. Did you know that it takes up to 15,000 litres of water to produce one kilogram of beef? 

By comparison, it only takes 287 litres to produce a kilogram of potatoes. By switching to a vegan diet, you can save thousands of litres of water every day.

Imagine if every person in the world had a 'vegan day' once a week - how much water could we save?

4. Veganism may be cheaper than you think

Many people think veganism is expensive. But the truth is that basic vegan foods like legumes, rice, potatoes and seasonal vegetables are often cheaper than meat and dairy. 

Plus, when you learn to plan meals and cook at home, you can save even more. 

For example, a kilo of lentils costs a fraction of the price of beef and provides more protein.

5. Veganism promotes biodiversity

Livestock production is one of the main reasons for deforestation and loss of natural habitats. 

For example, the Amazon rainforest is being cleared mainly to grow soy - but not for vegans! Up to 80% of the world's soy production is used as livestock feed. 

So by going vegan, you are indirectly protecting endangered species and helping to restore natural ecosystems.

6. Veganism improves mood

Yes, you read that right. Studies show that people on a plant-based diet have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and often feel happier. 

A plant-based diet is rich in antioxidants, which promote brain health, and contains less saturated fat, which can affect mood. 

Plus, knowing that you are contributing to a better world through your choices is a source of joy in itself.

7. Veganism can improve your sleep

Here's the shocking fact that will get you! Did you know that a vegan diet can improve the quality of your sleep? 

Plant foods like bananas, oatmeal and almonds contain tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones important for sleep. 

Plus, vegans often consume fewer heavy meals, which means their bodies don't have to work harder to digest during the night.

8. Veganism is a revolution in fashion

Veganism isn't just about food. Vegan fashion that doesn't use leather, wool or silk is on the rise. 

Brands around the world are switching to sustainable and ethical materials such as pineapple leather (Piñatex) or mushrooms. 

In doing so, they are not only protecting animals, but also reducing the fashion industry's ecological footprint.

9. Veganism inspires creativity in the kitchen

Going vegan forces you to discover new flavours and ingredients. From aquafaba (a chickpea water egg substitute) to jackfruit (a fruit that tastes like meat), vegan cooking is full of surprises. 

Plus, you'll learn how to prepare meals that are not only tasty, but also healthy.

10. Veganism is the future

According to the UN, switching to a plant-based diet is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change. 

With a growing population and limited resources, veganism is not only a choice but a necessity for a sustainable future.

Veganism isn't just a trend - it's a path to better health, a cleaner planet and a more compassionate world. 

Whether you've been inspired by fact number 7, or any of the others, I hope this article has opened your eyes and shown you that there are many more layers to veganism than meets the eye.