What is Veganism?
Welcome to the Internet for Vegans! It has become apparent that, while there are a ton of articles about veganism just outlining basic terms and practices, not many of these sources seem to be written by vegans. So in spirit of practicing what you preach, were going to try and make it easier to understand some basic stuff about veganism.
Let’s Do It.
Veganism is, by definition, a diet that excludes animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy. Certain products are processed using animal substance as well, so vegans are always careful to read ingredient labels. Some would say that veganism is more than a diet. It is also a lifestyle. Those who are true vegan will avoid other products such as clothing and household goods that also use animal products. That means knowing what your belt is made of, and no goose-down pillows!
A vegan is someone who follows this specific diet or lifestyle. You aren’t a true vegan if you eat as a vegan but don’t live as one. That doesn’t add up. You’ve got to live the lifestyle completely. When it comes down to it, to be vegan is to be cruelty free.
There is debate as to whether or not second-hand products are vegan. That means that leather jacket you bought in a thrift shop….. Is that vegan? We would argue it isn’t. There’s no such thing as “mostly vegan.” Can you be mostly Buddhist? How bout “mostly” a police officer? I personally wouldn’t want Joe the “most of the time” police officer rolling up to my emergency. At the end of the day, you’re just buying it because it looks good. If you’re freezing to death in the wilderness and you find a wool jacket, no one is going to judge you for staying alive. Just understand the difference between want and need.
Going vegan is also a lesson in mindfulness.
The word Vegan can be used as an adjective, or as a noun. You can say “That pasta is vegan.” You can also say, “Vegan’s have great skin!”
Because really! We do!
What Do Vegans Eat?
Well, anything that doesn’t come from animals! Vegans will eat grains, roots, beans, fruit, leafy greens, seeds, legumes, and just about everything else in between. It’s also important to remember that you can create nearly infinite combinations of things from these foods. Hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, yogurt, steak……. All of these foods can be made out of plants! “But Strongfit….. What about mayonnaise? You can make that out of plants too!!!
Vegans also eat many of the same common and familiar everyday foods that everyone else does, such as a green salad, spaghetti, peanut butter sandwiches, and chips and salsa. That said, it is still important for vegans to know the best ways to recreate many traditional animal based foods. Bean products like tofu and seitan can be utilized to recreate just about anything from ice cream to BBQ Ribs! Want to Learn some awesome recipes? CLICK HERE!
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How Can I Go Vegan?
Ready to make the switch? We have a ton of great resources to help you join the fun people! Check out our Blog Center for all the information you’ll need to make it happen.
Pronunciation: VEE-gun (not VAY-gun)
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