Veganism is beginning to gain popularity. Many fast food chains and restaurants are now offering vegan protein options. More vegan and plant based eateries are open, and there seems to be an increase in the awareness of veganism. As more people learn about its ethics they start to see the benefits. The core value of veganism is rooted in the compassion for animals.
Chanel Wright works at Copper Branch, a plant-based restaurant. Her diet is based on avoiding meat and identifies as 80-90% vegan. She chose to follow the plant-based diet for its health benefits.
“As someone who has been doing this for a long time, I’ve noticed the positive health effects from following veganism.”
If done correctly, veganism can help:
- Improve cholesterol
- Your metabolism and digestion
- Promote heart health
- Promote weight loss
- Lower your risks of cancer and diabetes.
Vegan food alternatives are accessible at grocery stores. Creativity is a key point when it comes to looking for your options. For example: plant based milk, egg substitute, meat substitute, tofu, beans, quinoa, or simply seasoning plant ingredients to mimic the flavour of meat.
There is often a misconception between plant-based and vegan. Plant-based focuses more on the diet and health principles. Veganism goes further than just one’s own health. Their motive includes the betterment of the environment and sustainable living. The larger the community, the greater the impact.
Emma Wilson has been vegan for 5 years. She started off on a vegetarian diet for a few years prior. When her body began adjusting to the plant-based foods, she gradually decided to go full vegan.
“Veganism isn’t specifically for the animals. It’s about thinking that every living kind is worth keeping alive. If you can prevent the amount of violence, that’s the best situation.”
Veganism is not just a diet, it is a lifestyle. Vegans avoid goods that are tested on animals or include animal products such as cosmetics, leather, and fur. Brands that support unethical labour practice are also unethical to veganism. Equal treatment and care for all living things is a main vegan principle.
Though sometimes controversial, some vegans may opt for ethically sourced animal by-products. Instead of contributing to the production of animal products, thrifting leather makes up for saving it from going to waste.
Veganism is becoming more visible and accessible. More vegan food options are being offered at restaurants and stores. If you’re new to the vegan community, don’t go too hard on yourself. Be prepared to meet new people who will inspire your vegan consciousness. Being open to trying new foods and experimenting is part of the enjoyment of joining the community.
“If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian”
– Paul McCartney
