Making the vegan leap: What it involves
To many people, a plant-based diet and a vegan diet are one in the same. Unknown to many however is that there is a stark difference. Whilst a plant-based diet
To many people, a plant-based diet and a vegan diet are one in the same. Unknown to many however is that there is a stark difference. Whilst a plant-based diet is a diet based on fruits, vegetables and whole grains, a vegan diet is strictly against the consumption of animal products.
In many cultures including Kenya, meat products are a large part of our daily meals. It is thus a very difficult thing to make the vegan leap and completely cut out animal products from your life. However, such decisions are often prompted by various things including health reasons. At heart, however, it is a lifestyle choice. As such, it requires certain changes in how one lives.
What veganism involves
Animal products such as meat, dairy and eggs are some of the most consumed foodstuffs worldwide. Therefore, it can be very difficult to instantly cut them out of your diet. If you find yourself in such a situation, there are a few things you can do to ease your vegan leap. First thing is to add to your diet before subtract anything. This is recommended to enable you experiment with various other meals on top of what you’re used to. In the end by doing this, you get to learn what works for you.
Next, incorporate more whole grain, legumes, seeds and nuts. Since they are the core ingredients for vegan meals it is important to familiarize yourselves with their preparation and storage.
Although these are important steps, the most important thing is to ease yourself into it. This involves reading ingredient lists and slowly cutting down the goods with animal products that you wont miss as much. During this period you can still use the animal products you find hard to cut out.
As you continue to learn about the vegan lifestyle, find out which products can replace your favorite animal products. For example, you can trade in meat, dairy and eggs for quinoa, sweet potatoes, almonds, flax, coconut milk and berries. These are delicious, filling foods that are not derived from animal products