Notes

I feel like it depends, and that God allows people to do things such as "bend the rules" for a reason. For example: someone really likes wearing fashionable clothing and doesn't like plain clothing styles. They want to get closer to God. So they force themselves to wear plain clothing, but in return they become very judgemental, rigid, and hypocritical. It would be better for them to continue wearing fashionable clothing but keep their humble and non-judgemental personality. Fashionable clothing may be vain in nature, but it helps them in their case.

Another example: Someone likes eating meat. They should tone down on eating meat, however. While theyre eating clean meat, they eat too much of it. They also want to get closer to God. So in return, they try to go on a vegan diet. They don't like it at all, but they continue. Forcing themselves to go on a vegan diet makes them cranky and suspectible to holding grudges against others. It's better for them to continue eating meat, but just eating less of it while having a better personality.

In short: There is a preferred way, and an alternative way. Most people will choose an alternative way in one form or another. Whether it's staying celibate and not engaging in any sexual activity, or becoming married because of lack of self-control; everyone has their ways. Love covers all sins. God could've easily said that no animals are suitable to eat, but he picked a small amount of animals that are safe and good to eat, even while eating only plants is preferred. This is an alternative for people to take so they don't get too obsessed on what rules to follow, and rather focus on loving their neighbor and loving God. Because that's what matters at the end of the day.