Should I Go Vegan? Try these 13 questions that you can ask yourself
Deciding to go vegan is a significant lifestyle change and, for many, the thought of giving up familiar foods like cheese, eggs and meat feels scary. People genuinely don't know what they will eat, they worry about being hungry all of the time, not being able to eat out and the effect the change would have on their health. It is common to focus on the sacrifices, rather than the benefits, however, shifting the focus from "what will I lose?" to "what will I gain?" can make the decision clearer and more empowering.
What Holds People Back
One of the biggest mental barriers to going vegan is the fear of missing out:
Missing out on the taste of favourite foods.
Feeling excluded from cultural or family traditions.
Concern about nutritional deficiencies.
Worrying about being judged or labelled.
These concerns are valid, but they often overshadow the potential benefits of going vegan, such as improved health, environmental impact and a sense of alignment with ethical values.
A Perspective Shift: Focus on the Gains
When you consider going vegan, think about what you stand to gain:
Health Benefits: Lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, clearer skin and improved energy levels.
Environmental Impact: A dramatic reduction in your carbon footprint and a role in conserving natural resources.
Compassionate Living: Peace of mind knowing your choices align with kindness and reducing animal suffering.
Culinary Exploration: Discovering new flavours, cuisines, the chance to try foods that you never would have considered before and innovative plant-based alternatives.
13 Questions to Ask Yourself
To help weigh the pros and cons of going vegan, here are 13 questions you can reflect on:
Why am I considering going vegan? Understanding your motivation can clarify your commitment, whether it’s health, the environment, or ethics.
What concerns do I have about going vegan? Identifying fears or obstacles can help you address them constructively, t will certainly make you able to research or ask people who understand the problem to get guidance.
What foods or traditions do I think I’ll miss the most? Acknowledging these can help you plan substitutions or compromises, for example with cheese it can be best to not eat any kind of cheese for a period of time before trying vegan alternatives.
How might going vegan improve my health? Research the health benefits of a plant-based diet specific to your needs. If you need a low fibre/high protein/iron rich diet you can plan your meals around your nutritional needs.
How does my current diet impact the environment? Consider how animal agriculture contributes to deforestation, water use, water pollution, land use and greenhouse gas emissions.
What role does my diet play in animal welfare? Reflect on the ethics of animal farming and how it aligns with your values, as well as the often un-noted consequences such as bycatch in the fishing industry.
What new foods or meals could I try as a vegan? Exploring the incredibly long list of food options can be exciting and motivating, especially once you've found some new favourites.
How might going vegan affect my social and family life? Anticipate challenges and strategies for maintaining relationships while staying true to your goals.
What nutrients do I need to focus on as a vegan? Educate yourself on key nutrients like protein, B12, iron and omega-3s, how to get them from plant sources and how much you really need.
What vegan alternatives are available for my favourite foods? Explore your usual supermarket and look into plant-based versions of meat, dairy and eggs to ease the transition.
How will I feel about my decision in 10 years? Envision the long-term impact of your choices on your health, the planet and your values.
What resources or support can I rely on? Identify vegan cookbooks, communities, or online resources that can guide your journey.
How can I start small and transition gradually? Consider steps like trying Meatless Mondays, swapping out dairy, or incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine.
Going vegan is about more than giving up certain foods; it’s about gaining a healthier, more sustainable and compassionate way of living. By focusing on what you will gain rather than what you’ll lose, the decision becomes less about sacrifice and more about opportunity. Reflecting on these questions can help you make an informed and empowered choice that aligns with your values and goals.
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