Vegan, plant-based, cruelty-free, herbivorous, and meatless are just some of the words that have gained popularity in our society, not as another fad diet or meal plan but as a lifestyle. Veganism has the profoundly traditional virtue of daily prevention of all animal creatures’ pain and suffering and preserving the environment by slowing down its degradation.
To be a vegan means not eating any animal products such as meat, eggs, dairy, poultry, fish, seafood, and honey. Nowadays, the meaning has grossly expanded to include the avoidance of clothing, cosmetics, medication, and other animal-derived substances. The majority of plant-based eaters don’t choose this challenging lifestyle to pursue health benefits, but rather as an act of social justice and tribute to the living creatures. Improved health, less toxic and cancerous nutrients to enter your body, and a significant reduction in grocery bills are just some of the beneficial byproducts of going vegan. Sure, a nice juicy steak or a cold milkshake on a hot summer evening sounds excellent! The question is not if animal-derived products taste (or look) good. The question is, are you willing to pay the price of using those products and partake in the deterioration in both your health and the environment.
So how does one become vegan? By cutting all animal products off the menu cold turkey (pun intended) or by gradually replacing food and household items with their cruelty-free alternative? Both methods are a great way to start, and whatever the decision, you are on the right track. Our stores have adapted to provide more and more vegan nutrient-dense items on their shelves and expand cosmetics selection and cleaning supplies. Clothing that is organic, plant-based, and manufacturing the mentioned products has not caused any harm to animals. With meat substitutes, tofu, quinoa, lentil pasta, nuts, nut butter, and an array of dairy-free milk and yogurt and an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, there is no reason to use animals for food. Social media platforms provide an endless library of cooking recipes, ideas, and support to anyone who has become vegan or is transitioning to an eco-friendly lifestyle.
How to find out if your choices when shopping and eating out are the right ones? By merely reading nutrition labels, researching what you put in your body, and by not being embarrassed to ask questions. Many vegan-friendly restaurants pride themselves in offering a great selection of delicious vegan entrees that are often wholly organic and farm to table ingredients. Eating out has never been easier!
Many people are hesitant to embark on this journey simply because they are worried doing so will deplete their bodies out of vital nutrients such as adequate amounts of protein with all essential amino acids, vitamin B-12, Zinc, and other elements. It is a misconception that the aforementioned components of our diet can only be found in animal-based products. A vegan diet is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and believe it or not, protein. If there is a worry about not having enough B-12, many plant-based individuals add a supplement. If you are also concerned about creating a nutrient rich herbivorous diet, concern yourself no further, we can help.
Remember, no matter if you’ve decided to start by just adding one vegan meal per week or are going all in, you are going to benefit as well as the beautiful world around you. One day at a time, then a week, a month, and before you know it, being vegan has become your lifestyle.