Back to meat? Why more and more people are turning their backs on veganism – and what you should consider when switching

For a long time, veganism was a real megatrend – especially in the media. Influencers, documentaries, and food startups presented avoiding animal products as the key to health, animal welfare, and sustainability. But now a new countertrend is emerging: More and more people are abandoning a purely plant-based diet and rediscovering animal products. Some are choosing a moderate mixed diet, while others are going even further and turning to heavily meat-focused diets such as carnivore or animal-based.

But why this change of direction? And what should you consider if you want to get your body—especially your gut—used to meat and other foods again?

Why many are turning away from veganism

After months or years of following a vegan diet, many people report health problems – despite a generally conscious and well-intentioned lifestyle. Commonly reported symptoms include:

• Chronic fatigue or exhaustion
• Digestive problems, bloating or food intolerances
• Hormonal imbalances
• Susceptibility to infections and weak immune system
• Concentration problems and mental exhaustion
• Hair loss or brittle nails
• Decline in sports performance
• Psychological symptoms such as depressive moods or emotional imbalance

The latter, in particular, is often underestimated: An unbalanced vegan diet can impair serotonin and dopamine levels in the long term – among other things, due to deficiencies in vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA), iron, zinc, and essential amino acids. These are crucial for a stable nervous system and mental resilience.

A possible reason for all these symptoms: A vegan diet carries the risk of nutrient deficiencies – especially if it isn't specifically planned and supplemented. From an immunological and hormonal perspective, returning to high-quality animal-based foods can therefore bring noticeable improvements for many people.

The healthy way back: Not radical, but conscious

Those who decide to add animal products back to their diet shouldn't do so hastily. The digestive tract, especially the gut microbiome , has adapted to a plant-based diet. A sudden switch to meat may initially cause discomfort—but it doesn't necessarily.

Important to know:

The microbiome typically needs 3 to 6 weeks to adjust to the new food components. During this transition period, temporary symptoms such as:

• Flatulence
• feeling of fullness
• mild nausea or
• sluggish digestion

These are harmless in most cases and subside quickly once the bacterial balance in the intestine has been re-regulated.

Tips for a smooth and successful transition

To ensure a smooth transition back to a meat-based diet, here are some tried-and-tested recommendations:

1. Increase slowly

Start with easily digestible animal products like eggs, fish, or bone broth. Later, you can add high-quality muscle meat and nutrient-rich organ meats like liver.

2. Promote digestion

Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir or yogurt help to stabilize the intestinal environment and support the adaptation of the intestinal flora.

3. Drink plenty

Water and unsweetened herbal teas promote detoxification and support metabolism during the transition.

4. Eat consciously & chew well

Thorough chewing is essential – especially with protein-rich foods. This relieves the stomach and allows nutrients to be absorbed better.

5. Observe your body

Listen to your signals. Everyone reacts differently – the important thing is that you feel comfortable with the new diet.

The benefits are quickly apparent

Many former vegans report the following after switching to a nutrient-rich mixed or meat diet:

• More energy and resilience
• More stable mood
• Better immune defense
• Clearer skin
• More restful sleep
• Increased athletic performance
• Significant improvement in mental state

In particular, the interaction of amino acids, animal vitamin A, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc often shows rapid effects – both physically and mentally.

Conclusion: A return with a sense of proportion – for more vitality and inner balance

The decision to return to a purely animal-based diet is not a step backwards—quite the opposite. From an immunological, hormonal, and mental perspective, this step can be extremely beneficial. What matters is how you approach it: mindfully, consciously, and in small steps.

A healthy gut needs time to adjust. But once you've made the adjustment, it will thank you – with more energy, better resilience, and a true quality of life.

Are you thinking about eating meat again?
Then give your body—and especially your gut—a chance to adjust. Remember: It's not about ideology, it's about your health.