7 Things you need to know before going vegan

Published: February 25, 2022

More than 2,000 people in the United States were surveyed by the Vegetarian Resource Group, and the results show that 1.6% of Americans identify as vegans. GlobalData also found that “6 percent of U.S. consumers now claim to be vegan, up from just 1 percent in 2014,” in a study of prepared foods. Regardless, millions of people all over the globe today identify as vegans. Considering going vegan yourself? Reda the recommendations of our experts at DubaiPT Personal Trainers and the seven things you need to know before going vegan.

7 Things you need to know before going vegan

The number of people going vegan is steadily increasing. Animal-free diets are considered environmentally and ethically preferable because they exclude the use of all animal products (meat, fish, dairy, eggs, etc.). If you too want to go vegan, read up on these few things you need to know before going vegan.

1. Know your motives

The Vegetarian Resource Group looked at the numbers as well as what drives people to consume vegetarian meals. “Animals (29%) health (18%) ethics (10%) environment (9%) and other (12%)” were the top reasons given by vegetarians and vegans. You don’t have to be a PETA member to believe animals are cute, and a green diet has many health benefits. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, vegetarian diets are linked to improved health outcomes such as reduced obesity, heart disease risk, and blood pressure.

Raising animals also contributes significantly to CO2 emissions. Less meat consumption helps reduce emissions. Before you commit to going vegan, figure out why you want to do it. Don’t do it just because it’s trendy. This will help you at challenging times (like Thanksgiving) and give you something to think about when your ideals are tested.

2. Gradual introduction to Veganism

Don’t force a major life shift. Veganism can be introduced gradually, as Victoria Moran notes in her book Main Street Vegan. Our experts suggest that you introduce a vegan diet gradually, eliminating one animal product at a time. You may find this vegan meal plan interesting.   Consider the “vegan at home” technique, which allows you to eat vegan at home but not at restaurants. If you’re still an omnivore, Moran proposes becoming a “vegetarian for now,” which means you won’t have to give up gooey pizza anytime soon.

For example, you can have a green smoothie before breakfast or fruit before a cookie. Eating plant-based food first can help you lose weight and create a taste for the healthier option. Focus on yourself and be observant of your surroundings, body, and food cravings first… Stay calm and in control of your own life. Remember that this is YOUR adventure! Focus on yourself and any internal difficulties or opposition that arises in reaction to your nutritional goals.

3. Build a support system

Sharing your intention to go vegan on social media is one thing, but asking someone you know and trust for support is quite another. There are several online vegan support groups where you can share recipes, get advice, and vent about the haters. These communities are an invaluable resource for vegans.

Let’s be honest, you’ll need someone to vent to about how many times a day you get asked where you acquire your protein. At DubaiPT you can find many useful resources for new vegans. So you won’t feel so isolated as you embark on your new vegan diet and lifestyle. You can also read up on the benefits of a gluten-free diet. That could also help you in your vegan journey.

4.  Get motivated

Many people associate veganism with complete abstinence from all animal products, yet it can also serve as a springboard for a more adventurous approach to eating. #VeganInspiration, a popular Instagram hashtag, features more than 55,000 photos of people’s healthy meals, workout routines, and lovely animals. If you want to keep track of vegan recipes that look good, Pinterest is another fantastic option. You can also try to implement these 10 foods our personal trainers recommend.  Alternatively, you may look at Oh She Glows, a popular food site with over 500 healthy meal ideas that have been going strong for the past six years and are continuing to increase in popularity. If you’re wanting a recipe that normally calls for meat, dairy, or eggs, you may easily locate vegan alternatives online.

5. Take your time and do it correctly

Potato chips and soda are technically vegan, but they won’t offer your body the nutrients it needs to thrive. We’re sure many people will inquire about your protein sources after you declare yourself a vegan, but it’s more critical that you monitor your levels of vitamin B12, omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin D, and calcium. There are numerous sources of protein. Specifically seek for: Legumes, such as “beans (beans and soy products such as tofu, tempeh, etc.), peanuts, peas, lentils, and soy.” A wide variety of entire grains and nuts, such as “brown/wild rice,” “whole wheat bread and pasta,” amaranth, buckwheat, and quinoa,” are recommended.

You may want to consider taking vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acid pills to make sure your body isn’t lacking in these essential elements. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D and calcium in your diet by including leafy greens like kale and broccoli. Spend time in the sun to aid in the absorption of vitamin D by your body.

6. Be persistent

You don’t have to look far to get self-righteous vegans’ remarks. Brag about your new diet. This bad behavior can turn people away from the subject you’re attempting to promote. Ask your waitstaff about ingredients in meals (and tip at least 20%!) and remember this is your journey, not theirs. Of course, you can ignore rude meat-eaters. Prepare a list of one-liners and canned comments for those who criticize your diet.

• “Why are you vegan?” “I despise plants,” you’ll say.
• Getting harassed about protein intake? “Thanks, I’ll remind my nuts and beans that they’re poor in protein. They forget.”

If you miss out on turkey this Thanksgiving, remind them that Ben Franklin thought it was a “respectable bird.” Ultimately, you’re just supporting a patriot.

7. Be kind to yourself

People feel concerned because of the rules. No need to worry. Relax and learn to love cooking, new cuisines, and food. If you have any questions, feel free to consult with a nutritionist. Above all, be kind to yourself. View a vegan diet as an evolving practice of careful eating. After all, you may discover an egg in a loaf of bread or be a guest of a household that does not understand your vegan lifestyle. You will almost certainly eat animal products sometime. That doesn’t imply you failed. Remember your drive. Why did you choose this? Did going off your vegan diet in that situation impact you as a person? Does a fuss or a poor attitude help? Consider how you can avoid this in the future. We hope that you learned something new from these 7 things you need to know before going vegan.