This 2011 survey from Janice Stanger, author of “The Perfect Formula Diet” finds fallacy in six common myths associated with vegan diets, for example, nearly all (97%) vegans enjoy their food, and almost as many (94%) say they wish to stay on this diet indefinitely.

This survey data collected from 2,068 vegans from the United States and other part of the world debunks six myths commonly associated with 100% plant-based diets.

MYTH ONE – Vegans are pale, weak and unhealthy from lack of protein, vitamins and minerals. Survey data shows that more than two out of three respondents said they became healthier after embarking on a vegan diet, while 1.6% said their health worsened; 55% said their energy improved, though 2% said it declined. Nearly two-thirds (64%) said that better health was an important reason to remain vegan, and 44% said they increased their physical activity after adopting the diet.

MYTH TWO – Vegan diets have too many “carbs” for effective weight loss. After beginning a vegan diet, 42% of respondents lost weight, 36% remained at their initial ideal weight, and 5% gained weight.

MYTH THREE – Vegan diets are boring. The vast majority (97%) of all survey respondents said they enjoy the food they consume on a vegan diet, and 94% said they would like to remain on this diet for the term of their life.

MYTH FOUR – Vegan diets are about deprivation and lower quality of life. According to survey input, vegans are enjoying cooking more (73%), making a positive difference for animals (91%) and the environment (86%) and feeling more spiritual (42%).

MYTH FIVE – Vegan diets are difficult to maintain; they require a significant amount of discipline. Respondents note that the initial transition phase took some effort (64%), though 61% say that staying on the diet is “effortless.” A nominal 3% say it takes much effort to stay on the diet.

MYTH SIX – Vegans can’t enjoy dining out or social gatherings. These situations certainly post challenges for vegans, but many have developed strategies to cope with such situations, and none have considered changing due to these issues.