Veganism has grown from a subcultural trend into something more mainstream, but many misconceptions still exist. Here are answers to four frequently asked questions about veganism, so if you are veg-curious, you can see why the lifestyle works.
Where Do You Get Your Protein?
A big question that many people throw at vegans is, “Where do you get your protein?” There has been a belief that vegans are dangerously protein deficient because they don’t eat meat. In reality, many alternative sources of protein constitute a large part of a vegan diet. Instead of eating only fruits and veggies, vegans eat protein-rich foods, such as:
- Tofu
- Nuts
- Beans
- Quinoa
- Tempeh
These foods are a significant component of any vegan’s diet and are delicious in any meal.
Is It Healthy?
Much like the protein question, many people don’t believe that a vegan diet is healthy. They think that vegans miss out on essential vitamins and minerals without eating meat. On the contrary, a vegan diet contains plenty of fruits and veggies that provide what every human needs, and it may even be healthier than a meat-based alternative. In fact, a vegan diet can help lower the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Is It Expensive?
Another common misconception is that veganism is expensive. For a while, the alternatives in stores, such as non-dairy milk and meat alternatives, had a premium price tag. As these foods became more popular, their price tags came down, but they are still not cheap and not what many vegans have at the heart of their diet. They buy many vegan staples, such as lentils and granola, cheaply in bulk, and they can also purchase fresh produce from stores or local farmer’s markets. If you cook your meals, being vegan is inexpensive. Just don’t forget to but you still need to correctly wash and store your veggies before they spoil.
What’s The Difference Between Veganism and Vegetarianism?
The last decade or so has seen different diet trends go into the mainstream, and it can be easy to become confused. Some think being a vegetarian and vegan means the same thing, but there are many differences. A vegetarian doesn’t eat animals, but they will eat animal products, such as dairy and eggs. Alternatively, vegans don’t eat animal products, as they are still the result of the exploitation and killing of animals. Hopefully, these answers to the four frequently asked questions about veganism helped clear up many of the misconceptions that have been floating out there. It can be a daunting lifestyle to think about starting but living it is easier and more rewarding than you might think.
