‘Free Meat Week’? How About ‘Happy Heart Attack Week’?
PETA has offered some words of advice to Dawson MP George Christensen, who decided that Meat Free Week is “un-Australian” and planned a cholesterol-laden counter-campaign, dubbed “Free Meat Week”, featuring a massive barbecue.
In a letter sent to Mr Christensen, we suggested that “Happy Heart Attack Week” would be a better moniker for his flesh-filled fiesta since meat-heavy diets increase the risk of developing heart disease. Meat, eggs and dairy products are high in cholesterol and saturated fat, which build up in the arteries as plaque, putting people at risk of developing a number of diseases, most notably heart disease.
Disturbingly, after we sent Christensen a vegetarian/vegan starter kit, in case he might be open to a change of heart – a healthier heart, that is – he responded by sharing a photo of his fat-laden, meat-only dinner. With coronary heart disease claiming a life every 24 minutes in Australia, it is irresponsible for an elected representative to make a mockery of such a serious issue.
Studies have shown that a healthy vegan diet – rich in whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables – can stop and even reverse heart disease. And since cardiovascular disease is “one of the biggest burdens on our economy”, according to the National Heart Foundation of Australia, improving heart health also improves our economic health – surely something that Mr Christensen’s electorate would support.
Cows, pigs, sheep and other animals used for food endure a lifetime of misery and a terrifying death before they end up on our dinner plates. With a 2010 Newspoll survey finding that 99 per cent of Australians are opposed to cruelty to animals, elected officials would be smart to support a healthier, more financially stable, greener and more compassionate Australia.
You can find out more about a healthy plant-based diet and order your FREE vegetarian/vegan starter kit here.
Posted by Claire Fryer
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