PETA Offers Dating Advice to Al Gore

Slim Down and Save the Planet by Going Vegan, Says Group 

For Immediate Release:
June 8, 2010

Contact:
Ashley Byrne 757-622-7382

Washington -- Since learning that Al and Tipper Gore were separating after 40 years of marriage, PETA has written to the former vice president with the respectful suggestion that he consider going vegan as a way to improve his chances for hot dates as well as to help cool down the planet.

"Switching to a vegan diet is the best thing that anyone can do to reduce their carbon footprint--a goal that Al Gore says he supports," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "But perhaps more importantly to him right now, a plant-based diet will help him slim down and boost his energy and overall health."

Heart disease, strokes, diabetes, obesity, and various types of cancer have all been conclusively linked to the consumption of meat and other foods derived from animals. And...Studies have shown that eating meat can slow blood flow to all the body's vital organs--not just to the heart--and can lead to impotence.

PETA's letter to Al Gore follows.

The Honorable Al Gore 

Dear Mr. Gore,

I am writing on behalf of PETA and our more than 2 million members worldwide to offer some heartfelt advice following your separation from Tipper, which was announced during the very same week that the United Nations released a new report on the environment.

You are already aware of the environmental damage caused by animal agriculture, and you recently stated that you are reducing your meat consumption. This is a small but important step. Now that you're single again and presumably considering dating, you may also be looking for a way to slim down. May we recommend kicking the meat and milk habit entirely and going vegan, which is not only one of the best ways to fight climate change but is also one of the best ways to shed unwanted pounds?

Naturally high in fiber, low in fat, and free of cholesterol, a plant-based diet is virtually guaranteed to whittle away your waistline. Researchers have found that, on average, vegans are 10 to 20 pounds lighter than meat-eaters. And vegans are in better overall health as well. According to the American Dietetic Association, going meat-free lowers your risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Meaty diets such as Atkins, which we know you tried when you were campaigning, have been linked to unappealing side effects such as bad breath and constipation. The best way to stay fit and energetic and to make sure that you do not clog the arteries leading to any of your vital organs with cholesterol is to go vegan.

We know that you find it hard to kick the meat habit, and we know that you care about the Earth, so please remind yourself of the fact that dropping meat, eggs, and dairy products from your diet is also good for the planet. The report on climate change that the United Nations released last week concluded, "A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products."

Of course, this is not news to you. Live Earth, the terrific organization that you cofounded, has stated in its handbook that "refusing meat" is the "single most effective thing you can do to reduce your carbon footprint."

If you would like, we will send you a gift basket full of delicious vegan foods to help you on the road to a healthier planet and a rekindled love life.

Very truly yours,

Ingrid E. Newkirk
President