Going vegan is a big step, with various challenges obstructing your way. You may be coming from a background of years of vegetarianism, or you could be leaping straight from carnivore to plant-based. No matter which applies to you, there are often many questions and queries needing to be answered. This concise plan will give a few pointers to set you on the right track for a good diet.
Have a Plan.
Anything in life will go better if it is planned out in as much detail as is possible. Tackling veganism for the first time is no different. Think about what type of vegan food you will find appealing. For some, it is straight meat substitutes, and items such as soy mince or veggie burgers and sausages are the way to go, at least at first. For others, it may be an opportunity to try a completely new diet and style of food and acquire new cooking skills.
Consider Nutritional Values
You must be sure you are getting the requisite amounts of nutrients in your diet. Some of these we can replace through diet, such as protein via pulses, and others, like calcium you might benefit from supplements. Some of the major nutrients to be aware of are as follows:
Vitamin B12.
Protein.
Omega-3, and omega-6 fats.
Calcium.
Vitamin D. Iodine.
Selenium.
Iron.
Where will your Food Come From?
Most vegans are doing so, at least in part, for moral or environmental reasons. Where our food comes from is important, and sustainable farming is a must. Sustainable can mean different things to different vegans. Does it have to be organic, what are the labor conditions on the farm, and how much damage to the environment does the farming process cause? These are questions we must ask ourselves. These are the choices that make shopping more difficult and expensive for us. But these costs are worth it for the good of society.
Treats: Alternatives
One of the most difficult changes for many is treats. Items such as baked goods often milk and butter as a default. Although this is changing and many outlets, even mainstream ones, are starting to offer vegan and dairy-free options. If you bake at home, it can be as simple as making some easy substitutions to achieve a similar result. See this example of how to make a flax egg to use as an ingredient in place of hens’ eggs.
Eating Out & Travelling
Going out for a meal and traveling can be a real challenge, especially with friends or family who are unfamiliar with the vegan lifestyle. Restaurants have offered a decent vegetarian selection for several years now, but not all are as good for vegans, yet. There is always the possibility of finding a vegan restaurant, but it is important to not always insist on this as others in your party may not appreciate having to eat like you. Foreign travel presents even more issues, with cultural misunderstandings and language barriers.
