Every vegan should know what to expect when dealing with a dietary preference. More often than not, this is something people need reminding of, especially new vegans who are feeling brave and excited about the world of veganism. In this article, we will discuss tips that every vegan should hear.
Why Veganism Is Good for You
There are so many reasons to become a vegan, and each one of them benefits you in ways that you may not even realize. Some of the most common benefits of veganism include:
- You’ll reduce your environmental impact. A vegan lifestyle requires significantly fewer resources to produce food than a carnivorous one, so by going vegan you’re saving both money and natural resources.
- You’ll improve your health. By adopting a vegan lifestyle, you’re cutting out many types of unhealthy foods that can contribute to chronic health problems such as obesity and heart disease. Veganism is also rich in nutrients such as vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for overall health.
- You’ll reduce animal suffering. Animal agriculture is the largest cause of environmental destruction and animal cruelty on the planet, and going vegan will help reduce this harm in ways that go far beyond just avoiding meat products.
Make Small Changes First
Start by eating vegan two or three times a week and see how you feel. If you start feeling better, then you can make the switch to a vegan lifestyle full-time.
Watch documentaries about veganism to learn more about the lifestyle. There are a ton of great ones out there, so find one that interests you and watch it!
Talk to your friends and family about your decision to become vegan. Let them know that you’re doing this for health reasons, not because you think they’re going to start eating vegan too. It will be easier if they are open to the idea.
Go To Farmer’s Market
If you’re looking to increase your nutrient intake and boost your immune system, be sure to check out the farmer’s market! Not only can you get fresh vegetables and fruits, but you can also find vegan staples like yogurt, cheese, sour cream, and eggs.
And if there’s something you’re missing from your regular diet, chances are there will be a farmer at the market who specializes in certain products. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be sure to find things like vegan lollipops or vegan chocolates for melting at a farmer’s market. They won’t always be in stores, but you can find specialized items at a farmer’s market.
Educate Yourself
When it comes to veganism, you have to be an expert on your own diet. Educate yourself on the things that veganism entails, and make sure that you are taking into account all of the necessary nutrients to stay healthy.
Basic terminology is critical to your vegan journey. You should familiarize yourself with the different verbiage used so that you can best navigate grocery stores and other situations.
Be Diligent About Shopping For Vegan Supplies
When you are shopping for vegan supplies, it is important to be diligent. Here are a few tips that will help you achieve success:
- Be sure to read the labels. All ingredients must be vegan, so be sure to read the label carefully.
- Shop at natural food stores or health food stores. These stores often have more specialized vegan supplies, and they are more likely to carry products that have been made with plant-based ingredients rather than animal-derived ingredients.
- Check online retailers. Many online retailers offer great deals on vegan supplies, and some even offer free shipping on orders over $50.
- Join a vegan community organizing group or online forum. These groups can provide valuable resources for finding specific products, connecting with other vegans across the country, and raising awareness about veganism among the general public.
Attend Vegan Events
Attending relevant vegan events can be a great way to learn and stay up-to-date on the latest news and events related to veganism. Here are some tips for finding and attending the best events:
- Use online resources to search for events in your area. There are many online calendars of vegan events that can be found through Google or social media channels, like Facebook.
- Volunteer with or join an advocacy group. This will give you access to regular updates about upcoming events and allow you to network with others who share your interests. Groups often have educational materials that they loan out or distribute at their events.
- Keep an eye out for flyers in local businesses. Many groups hold recruitment sessions at local businesses, which allows attendance without having to search for or attend an event that may not be convenient for you.
- Attend regional meetings. Some groups have regional meetings several times a year, which gives attendees the chance to connect with others in their region and learn about new programs or resources available.
If you’re thinking about going vegan, or if you are already vegan and want to be even more mindful of what you put into your body, hopefully, these tips help you. Being proactive about your diet will help make it easier and more enjoyable!