Are you following that "vegan" diet?

Let's clarify something right from the start: veganism isn't not actually a diet; it's a philosophy centered around minimizing harm to animals. While it encompasses what vegans eat, it goes beyond being just a dietary choice.

The Vegan Society played a pivotal role in defining veganism. In 1949, Leslie J Cross recommended a clear definition:

"It's about liberating animals from human exploitation, seeking an end to the use of animals for food, products, labor, hunting, vivisection, and any other forms of animal exploitation."

This definition, with slight phrasing changes over the years, remains intact today: "A philosophy and way of life that seeks to eliminate, as far as possible and practicable, all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty for food, clothing, or any other purpose. It also encourages the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals, and the environment. In dietary terms, it means abstaining from all products derived wholly or partly from animals."

Contrary to common belief, there are "junk food vegans." Simply being vegan doesn't guarantee a healthy lifestyle.

A "junk food vegan" is someone who follows a vegan diet but mainly consumes processed and unhealthy vegan foods, often high in calories, sugar, salt, and saturated fats.

These individuals often rely heavily on vegan versions of fast food, snacks, and convenience foods, which may not be nutritious or health-promoting.

Examples of junk food vegan items include vegan burgers, fries, vegan cheese puffs, sugary vegan desserts, and heavily processed vegan meat substitutes. While convenient and tasty, they may not offer the same health benefits as a well-balanced vegan diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

Additionally, processed vegan foods can be expensive, contributing to the misconception that veganism is costly.

However, when a vegan primarily consumes whole foods like rice, beans, legumes, and lentils from the bulk department of a grocery store, and of course fresh veggies, it can be very cost-effective.

The crucial distinction lies in the level of processing and ingredient quality. Whole food plant-based vegan foods prioritize natural, unprocessed ingredients, generally offering higher nutrient density. Processed vegan foods may contain refined components and vary in nutritional quality.

For those on a vegan diet, striking a balance between these food categories is essential to meet nutritional needs and maintain health.

Embracing a dietary protocol that is 100% whole food plant-based and free from added salt, processed sugar, and processed oil represents a remarkable choice for those seeking optimal health and well-being. This approach underscores the power of nature's bounty and a commitment to nourishing the body in its purest form.

For more articles like this, as well as those about marketing a vegan business, go to https://veganvisibility.com/blog-vv/