Where do I start? - Veganism
Are you contemplating going vegan? That’s great, we’re so proud of you! Whether it be because of your compassion for the animals, compassion for the world, or compassion for yourself, this is a big step towards creating a compassionate world!
Though it can be quite daunting, can’t it? Don’t worry, that’s where we come in! We’ll tell you everything you need to know to go vegan!
Nutrition
Perhaps one of the most important things you need to consider whilst on a vegan diet, getting the proper nutrition can be a big concern for new vegans. This is a list of what you should eat to get all the proper nutrients, and some ways that you could incorporate those foods into a meal.
B12 and calcium. You don’t need to take supplement tablets to get these vital nutrients! Fortified cereals and plant milks will have you covered when it comes B12 and calcium! Don’t like plant milk? Try adding it to mashed potatoes, hot drinks, porridge, and baked goods! And don’t forget, every plant milk tastes different, so make sure to try them all!
Protein. This is actually really easy to get! Beans on toast offer a good start to hitting your daily protein requirements, pair that with some vegan sausages, which usually have high protein content, and you’re pretty much set! Looking for something else? Try some nuts! Almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashew nuts, pistachios, pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds are all packed with protein, or just bust out the jar of peanut butter! There’s also pea protein powder, if you need something extra.
Iron. Spinach, kale, raisins, fortified breakfast cereals! Try adding vegetables to pasta or rice.
Omega-3. Flaxseeds and chia seeds are great for omega-3! If you don’t like eating seeds directly, you can use them as an egg substitute in baking, or mix them into bread and pastry dough. Seaweed! We all know that fish are high in omega-3, but the fish have to get it from somewhere! Seaweed is the original source of omega-3. Vegan sushi is great for consuming seaweed, it can also be added to dishes to give the meal a fishy taste!
When it comes to everything else, just make sure you’re eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, and carbohydrates, a balanced diet is the best diet, after all! Keeping a freezer full of frozen fruit and veggies can be a great help, too! Of course, if you have any concerns, consult a nutritionist.
Junk food recommendations
Don’t worry, vegans eat junk food too! There truly is no missing out in this day and age! With vegan cookbooks and cake mixes, you can always satisfy your cravings!
Some brands of jammy dodgers and bourbon biscuits are vegan, just check the label! Ginger nuts and rich teas, pringles, jam, and fizzy drinks! There’s vegan whipped cream, cheesecake, ice cream (Try Ben&Jerrys!), mousses, and muffins, cookies and Easter eggs, and so, so much more! Different shops will have different products, so have a little look around.
Keep in mind that vegan food is often scattered around the store, so keep your eyes sharp! Look out for brands such as Plant chef, Free-from, Wicked, and Bosh.
Thinking of giving up?
Write down all the reasons why you want to be vegan and why it’s important to you, then watch some documentaries about veganism! Here are some reccomendations!
If you’re vegan for the animals, watch Dominion, and Earthlings.
If you’re vegan for the world, watch Cowspiracy, and Seaspiracy.
If you’re vegan for your health, watch What the health, and Forks over knives.
And if you do fail, or mess up, don’t worry, just try again.