Honestly, I've just accepted, that animals are going to suffer for me to eat them. Now I'd like it, if they could lead happy lifes before I do so. But that is sadly not the world we live in.
Genuine question, what benefits do you mean? On the health side - since I went vegan + aiming for whole food plant-based, I've been the healthiest I've ever been. I wasn't even anticipating it, but I've lost a great amount of weight without trying and have more energy than ever. Definitely has cemented the switch as one of the best life decisions I've ever made.
I think the book How Not To Die by Dr. Michael Greger explains really well why. It discusses how animal-derived foods straight up are not good for you nutritionally. It also explains the health benefits of various plant-based foods in preventing different illnesses and supporting your immune system. I recommend it.
Well yes but I
a) ascribe to most animals a lower level of consciousness to humans and
b) am very biased when it comes to that in as I don't want for anyone or anything to kill me.
The more meat you eat, THE SOONER YOU DIE.
The more meat you eat, THE MORE MAJOR DISEASES YOU EXPERIENCE BEFORE YOU DIE.
The more meat you eat, THE MORE OF OUR COMMUNAL ENVIRONMENT IS DESTROYED.