A man who committed to a vegan diet for 12 weeks has shared what he found to be the most challenging aspect of following such a restrictive eating plan.

Identical twins Hugo and Ross Turner have participated in five different health-related studies. In one experiment, Ross followed a high-carb diet for three months, while Hugo stuck to a high-fat regimen.

The results were intriguing—Ross’s body mass increased by just 0.2kg, whereas Hugo gained 2.7kg.

However, one of their most well-known experiments was the meat vs. vegan challenge.

Ross and Hugo conducted the study to examine how their different diets would impact their gut health, with a particular focus on microbial diversity.

Reflecting on his experience, Hugo—who followed a vegan diet—told UNILAD that he “didn’t miss meat” and actually felt “pretty good,” noting that he had more energy.

However, his gut microbiome became less diverse, which made him more vulnerable to certain diseases.

Recalling the challenges of sticking to the diet, Hugo shared one especially frustrating moment.

He told UNILAD: “I got so annoyed one day about being vegan. I said, ‘Right, I’m just gonna go buy garlic bread, and that’s it’.”

“I came back, and then a friend was like, ‘It’s got butter in’.”

Upon realizing he couldn’t eat it, Hugo—understandably frustrated—”literally threw [the bread] across the room.”