Anyone still dubious about the benefits of a plant-based diet need look no further than vegan boxing world champion David Haye, whose fight on Saturday was a knockout – literally.

Haye joins a growing list of elite meat-free athletes – including footballer Phil Neville, squash champion James Willstrop, and Olympic cyclist Lizzie Armitstead – who understand that plant-based foods provide all the protein, complex carbohydrates and other nutrients our bodies need to get stronger and faster, minus the saturated fats and cholesterol found in animal products.

Of course, when one also considers that in the short time it took Haye to win, around a quarter of a million animals were killed globally for their flesh, the decision to go vegan – whether or not you're striving to be a champion athlete – becomes a no-brainer.

PETA offers a free vegan starter kit for anyone who wants to feel the benefits of plant nutrition, while sparing animals the pain of slaughter.

Jennifer White, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals Society, All Saints Street, London