Shifting to a vegan lifestyle or even trying out Veganuary 2022 can be a big step with many inevitable changes. It’s understandable that you might feel nervous about taking the leap and sticking to the commitment of going vegan! TeamCow can relate to that initial feeling! However, we are here to reassure you that the journey is infinitely more enjoyable and fulfilling than you would ever imagine.
Let’s start by addressing some of the most common worries that cross our minds.
1. Will I have to give up my favourite foods?
We might tend to dwell on what we’re missing out on. Instead, why don’t you try shifting your perspective by thinking about all the things you still can eat, and all the new things you’ll try as a result of the new lifestyle? Staples such as pasta, rice, most breads, tortilla wraps, etc are already vegan! If you like sausages, maybe give vegan sausages a try? They are amazing these days and 100% worth trying. If you want cheese, you can have that too – there are hundreds of companies producing all kinds of vegan cheese. Almost every animal-based food you enjoy eating is now available in a vegan version, so it’s really just a matter of keeping an open mind and swapping.
If you live in a place where veganism is still relatively new and therefore access to dairy and meat alternatives is limited, you can always refer to the multitude of vegan blogs or youtube channels and get cooking! This way, you may discover a whole new approach to cooking, and possibly a love for it too!
2. Will I get enough protein on a vegan diet?
There’s a whole array of delicious, affordable, and healthy vegan protein sources! To make the best of them, it’s generally a good idea to eat a colourful and varied diet of plant-based foods including chickpeas, lentils, nuts, seeds, beans, peanut butter, quinoa, green peas, whole grains, tofu, and other soy products. It is possible to get more than enough protein on a vegan diet (watch this doc if you don’t believe us)!
3. Aren’t vegan foods boring or lacking in flavour?
Many are likely used to eating a meat-centric diet with eggs, cheese, and maybe a tiny side of vegetables, so it can be hard to think outside that box. Because animal-based foods tend to be higher in fat and salt than plant-based foods, people may believe that vegan food options are not only limited but also bland. The truth is, the abundance and variety of a vegan diet is limitless! With different flavours and textures, using marinades and spices (just like cooking meat) vegan food is far from boring. By trying vegan, you are also choosing to open your mind and palate to a much larger, vibrant world of cuisines.
4. How will I dine out with friends?
While you might feel uncomfortable dining out with friends or family who are meat eaters, there are things you can do to feel more comfortable.
- Never apologize for your choices. By choosing kindness, you are likely to be an inspiration to others around you!
- Stay well informed so you can confidently respond to the questions that will come your way at gatherings.
- If you already know which restaurant you are going to, take a look at the menu online in advance. This way, you will know the vegan options beforehand. Even better if you get to choose the restaurant yourself!
5. Isn’t veganism expensive?
Veganism is falsely viewed as a privileged and expensive lifestyle. In reality, it can be as expensive or as cheap as you want it to be! In fact, research conducted by market research company Kantar suggests that vegans spend an average 40% less on food than omnivores. The notion that vegan food is expensive mostly comes from certain products in the “artisanal, organic” category – typically the nut-based products such as vegan cheeses – tending to be quite expensive. However, staple foods such as pasta, oats, beans, rice, breads, peanuts, tofu, coconut milk, lentils, legumes, vegetables, and fruits are all extremely affordable.
We hope this eases some of your nervousness around going vegan! Luckily, there’s not only a world of great vegan food to unlock, but also of community support to ease your transition. Remember the end goal – it is not about perfection but about trying your best to extend kindness and compassion wherever possible. A few slip-ups here and there are normal – don’t beat yourself up about it. The key is to keep going regardless of slip-ups; they are likely to reduce over time. Remember that this is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself and for all the lovely animals on our planet.
For more helpful resources that will help you make the transition, download the HappyCow app so you can find vegan food near you effortlessly, and connect with like-minded vegans around you!
We at TeamCow wish you a very happy Veganuary!
