Veganuary's focus today is sharing a reason why people choose to go vegan, so I thought I would share a bit of my story. In yesterday's blog I wrote about how I had no idea how to cook when I decided to go vegetarian and that I was learning to do so while also learning a whole new way of eating. To say it was a huge undertaking is a huge understatement. If I can be fully transparent with you, I don't always stick to things, especially at 20 years old when the thing required a lot of effort. That, coupled with the fact that I didn't eat a ton of vegetables to begin with, led those closest to me to view this change as a phase.
But, it wasn't a phase, it was a real and complete change of my entire life.
So, what made this change different? It was the reason I had for no longer eating animals that kept me motivated and moving forward. This change wasn't about me. It became a lot easier to keep going and giving up on it wasn't even an option because I didn't want to be part of that system anymore. It didn't matter that I had no idea what I was doing in the kitchen or that I had to read every label on everything I purchased from here on out which meant that shopping for everything took so much longer (there are apps now that make this process MUCH easier - see this blog for more on that). I carried with me little travel-sized pamphlets from the American Anti-vivisection Society and PETA that noted cruelty free brands and common animal-based ingredients that aren't so obvious (ex. casein, If you don't know that's a milk protein you could buy something that appears vegan but Isn't.).
The first book I read to start understanding what I was supposed to be eating was Becoming Vegan by Brenda Davis. It maintains its place on my bookshelf, 20+ years later. The first book I read to dive deeper into my why, the ethical (and main) motivation behind this change, was Peter Singer's Animal Liberation (there's an updated version Animal Liberation Now which Peter released in 2024. I had the absolute privilege of interviewing Peter for my podcast, you can listen to that interview here.)
What I have eaten since I first went vegetarian has ranged from "cheese-atarian," the beginning phase where I put cheese on everything while I learned how to cook and what to eat - to macrobiotic vegan, which emphasizes balance and harmony through whole grains, vegetables, and fermented foods. I've also spent a lot of time focused on standard comfort vegan food where I sought out familiar flavors and textures, often recreating beloved dishes using vegan ingredients. I spent some time fully embracing the Rescue10x/Plantstrong vegan lifestyle, which focuses on nutrient-dense, whole food plant-based eating, prioritizing health and wellness through the consumption of unprocessed foods. Now, my approach to eating has transformed into a more mindful practice, where I strive to incorporate whole foods into my meals more often than not. However, I also allow myself the freedom to enjoy indulgences, such as vegan nuggets or a slice of decadent cake, without the burden of guilt or the idea that foods are "bad" weighing on my conscience.
This commitment is not merely a dietary choice, as vegan Is not a diet, but a philosophy and lifestyle, but a holistic lifestyle approach that influences my purchasing decisions, my interactions with others, and the way I engage with the world around me. In a society that does not fully embrace veganism, I have come to understand that there will inevitably be instances where I encounter ingredients that catch me off guard or discover that a favorite product has altered its formula to include animal-derived components and so I need to find a new favorite. This reality serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by those of us striving to adhere to a vegan lifestyle. Consequently, it has become second nature for me to be perpetually vigilant, always on the lookout for new vegan items that align with my values, and to exercise caution when purchasing products or selecting activities to participate in. This vigilance extends beyond mere consumer habits; it is an integral part of my identity as I navigate the complexities of living in a world that often prioritizes convenience over compassion.
It might seem like a lot, to essentially overhaul your life, and it is. However, with a strong why, anything is possible. Some people go vegan overnight, but, most of us don't. Find a why outside of yourself, I'll bet you'll be surprised where that can take you.
What made you curious about Veganuary, tell me in the comments below. That just might be the start of your why.
I am looking for guests for Season 6 of the Did You Bring the Hummus Podcast! Podcast recordings will begin this month with a planned release beginning in March. If you're a vegan or know a vegan who would be a great fit for the podcast, fill out the Be A Guest Quiz here and I'll be in touch!
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My why would selfishely be my own health. A year ago, many levels were higher than they're supposed to be: glucose, cholesterol, bloodpressure and weight. I managed to lower all of them by strictly reducing "bad carbs" such as sugar and flour. I know that going vegan would be beneficial, but to be honest, I am not a fan of lentils, beans and tofu, so from time to time my protein comes from chicken, beef or fish.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and process, Kimberly. (Also here from the blog boost)
Throughout my life I've appreciated eating seasonally, and since the 70s, fresh local and organic/regenerative, as much as possible. My former hubby is a botanist, so that includes indigenous plants when possible, and gathering from my own yard.
Like Alice, the layer of eating gluten Ø (15 years) and mostly dairy free adds another dimension of reading lables, and seeking optional nutrients for my body!
I do eat plant strong, and so appreciate living on Kalapuya land, with produce available year round.
🙏 blessings
I know several vegans and I am fascinated by their choices of food. For me, right now, it's not an option because I am still adjusting to the gluten free diet. I've also removed highly processed foods so I feel as if I have removed enough for a while! This is alice from the Ultimate Blogging Challenge.