A man who embraced a vegan lifestyle for 12 weeks shares the biggest challenges he faced with strict eating patterns.

Identical twins, Hugo and Ross Turner, have participated in five diverse health studies. In one of these experiments, Ross adhered to a high-carbohydrate diet for three months, while Hugo followed a high-fat plan.

The findings of their latest study were noteworthy, indicating that Ross only gained 0.2 kg, whereas Hugo’s weight increased by 2.7 kg.

One of their most famous experiments was the meat versus vegan test.

The twins undertook this study to investigate the impact of their respective diets on gut health.

Reflecting on the outcomes, Hugo, who followed the vegan diet, stated in an interview with UNILAD that he “didn’t crave meat” and felt “really good” with an increase in energy.

However, Hugo’s gut bacteria diversity diminished, leaving him more vulnerable to illnesses.

While discussing the challenges of maintaining his diet, Hugo recounted a specific incident.

He told UNILAD: “One day, I became so frustrated with being vegan. I declared, ‘I’m just going to get some garlic bread, and that’s it.’”

Upon returning home, a friend reminded him, “It contains butter.”

Hugo, understandably upset, said he “literally threw [the bread] across the room” after realizing he couldn’t enjoy it while on a vegan diet.

Hugo and Ross Turner have participated in multiple fitness and diet studies (theturnertwiins/Instagram)

Hugo further mentioned that discovering suitable foods and recipes was “extremely challenging”.

Fortunately for him, both he and Ross conducted their diets during the lockdown, which alleviated some of the social pressure associated with strict eating habits.

“I don’t even think restaurants were open, which probably concealed the reality of going vegan. If dining out had been an option, it would have posed significant challenges,” he explained. “Social gatherings, weekend meals at friends’ houses, would have been particularly tough.”

Despite the lockdown restrictions, Hugo still found the strict vegan diet “frustrating” due to his limited social opportunities.

Hugo (left) and Ross (right) are committed to continuing their participation in studies (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for Tissot UK)

When it comes to selecting which diet they will follow, Hugo and Ross often consider their individual health conditions.

Regarding their recent high carb versus high fat study, Hugo explained: “Ross has extremely high cholesterol, so I volunteered for the high fat diet.”

In the context of their meat versus vegan experiment, Hugo expressed that he was “curious about” the vegan aspect, which is why he chose to participate.

The brothers are also eager to explore a fasting study, with Ross expressing a desire to tackle the more challenging aspects this time around.

“I am genuinely interested to see how my body would react to continuing my normal diet,” he added, remarking on the potential insights that could come from such studies.

While they have several ideas for future experiments, they are also eager to gather suggestions from the public. Some of the potential studies include: fasting versus non-fasting, one repetition versus twelve repetitions in workouts, and comparing ab simulator pads to sit-ups.

Which one of these experiments would you like to see Hugo and Ross undertake? Share your thoughts in the comments below!