I went vegetarian when I was 12 and 10 years later went vegan. I've now been vegan for almost 4 years and it hasn't effected my health in a negative way any more than people eating too much dairy or meat effects them. I think it's a shame that our society puts so much pressure on kids to fit a "Standard American Diet" when they can make their own choices and since they're being conscious usually wind up healthier. I don't understand the negativity towards people who choose a diet different than your own (should we also shun those who diet to lose weight?) and I'm glad to see that as a whole people are being more receptive to alternative diets. My site is an example of this, listing vegan menu options at popular restaurants and fast food chains: Vegan Eating Out

I think God gave us animals to eat.