Veganism provides not only good health but also supports anti-cruelty towards animals. Moreover, this diet has proven to be effective in improving human health and the quality of life of the people who are religiously practising it.
It is why many individuals have already changed into this diet and focused more on consuming plant-based products. Hence, if you are planning to transition, here are some things you should know about first before you go vegan.
You need supplements
The first thing you need to know is that when you go vegan, you should take supplements. Although all you will eat is healthy food options, your body’s vitamin and mineral requirements will not be sustained.
Even those on diets other than vegan will never reach the daily vitamins and minerals needs of their body. Therefore, taking supplements will help you compensate for the nutrients that your body needs but cannot get from the food you consume.
When choosing a supplement, look for a clean label to ensure that what you are taking is made from simple ingredients that have undergone a minimal process. Clean-label supplements give vegans a chance to add a cleaner, plant-based supplement into their diets. A clean supplement will help you achieve optimal health without worrying about what you ingested.
So, even though you’re turning to a completely different lifestyle, you’ll still be able to take the necessary nutrients into your body with the help of vegan and clean supplements.
You will not get the proper support
You should brace yourself when you decide to go vegan, as you will never have full support from friends and families, especially those who love meat. However, you should never give up and follow what you think is suitable for yourself.
Before you even engage in veganism, you should prepare not only physically but also mentally and emotionally. Our entire culture revolves around food. When friends and families get together, food is the centre of the gathering.
From birthdays to holidays, food brings us together. So, when one chooses to be vegan, expect that there will be minimal support. Some will even talk you out of veganism which can be tempting. You will need to be firm and determined to surpass this trial.
It will also help if you tell friends and family that you are going vegan to be aware of your new choice in life. It will give both you and your loved ones time to adjust.
You can still eat at your favourite restaurant
Being vegan does not mean your life will become boring. The only thing that has changed is your food preference. If you transition to veganism, you should know that you can still eat at your favourite restaurant anytime you want to.
Today, most restaurants have adjusted to this new diet that many have already engaged in. It is why, unlike a few years ago, most restaurants in the country are now offering vegan options to their customers.
You can ask for a special dish or even a separate menu meant for vegan customers. Even fast-food chains have already adapted to veganism and offer plant-based food to their consumers.
You can still get enough protein
Many are sceptical about veganism as they think it could not give our body the protein it needs. The most popular protein-rich food is meat, which is prohibited in veganism. But contrary to what most people believe, vegans still have access to food rich in protein without eating any meat products.
Quinoa, tofu, and even nuts and seeds are great protein sources. Some vegetables are also rich in protein, such as broccoli, asparagus, kale, and cauliflower.
So, you do not have to worry about your protein intake as you got everything you need in the plant world. There’s no need to consume meat products to acquire your daily protein needs.
You have a lot of options for protein-rich, plant-based food. Therefore, you will never have to worry about your diet missing this important nutrient.
Various vegan community offers support
If you start to feel demotivated and need help, whether it is about where to acquire vegan products, what vegan restaurant is best, or even for emotional support, you must know that there is a community of vegans who are willing to help.
And they’re everywhere. You can search for a page on Facebook that is meant for vegans. Youtube and Instagram are also excellent places to seek support from people with the same lifestyle as you.
You’ll be surprised by how vast the vegan community has become today. In these communities, you will find a lot of vegans who are willing to answer your questions, provide support, and give tips and advice to help you with your journey.
Determination is the key
Going vegan is not a simple transition, especially if you are a meat-lover who chooses this new lifestyle either for health or to avoid consuming animal products. However, nothing is impossible with determination. If you are determined to be renewed and become a vegan, you’ll be able to ease easily into your new diet.
Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
