In many ways, a vegan lifestyle can be used to quickly improve your overall health. Between lowering your cholesterol and fat intake, this diet can have an impact on the way you look and feel. A vegan diet extends far beyond the foods that you eat everyday, it is a lifestyle. In this article, we will share six tips that will help you maintain this lifestyle successfully.
1. Find the Protein Sources You Love
When you begin eating a vegan diet, the main foods that you are eliminating are meat, poultry, and eggs. When you cut out these ingredients, you immediately lose a sizable portion of your protein intake. There are many vegan sources of protein, including:
- Hemp seeds
- Tofu
- Chia Seeds
- Soy
- Chickpeas
- Nuts
- Beans
Find your favorite plant-based protein sources and keep them stocked in your kitchen.
2. Focus On Your Iron Intake
Red meat is a dense source of iron. When you are no longer consuming red meat, it is important that you get your iron through other sources. Thankfully, many dark and leafy greens offer a high iron content. In addition, cooking meals using a cast-iron skillet quickly increases the iron you receive from everyday foods. When adhering to a plant-based diet, it is important that you monitor your ferritin and hemoglobin levels on a regular basis to ensure that you are getting an adequate amount of iron in the bloodstream. When you search “order blood test near me,” you will find companies that will do your lab work on the spot so that you regularly monitor your levels.
3. Read Ingredient Labels
You will be shocked to recognize that there are many sauces and condiments that have small amounts of cheese, milk, and eggs. When you are fully adhering to a vegan lifestyle, these products need to be avoided. Make sure to check all ingredient labels; these substances are present in unassuming products.
4. Make It a Lifestyle
When you are fully vegan, there are lifestyle changes that you must make. When adhering to the standards of this lifestyle, people do not utilize real leather bags or real furs. Examine your wardrobe and accessories to ensure that you do not have pieces that compromise your values.
5. Be Ready to Share
Although it would be nice to keep your dietary preferences on the down-low, this topic will often come up in conversation. When eating a plant-based diet, you will need to verify that restaurants are preparing dishes that you can consume. When you cease to order meat-based dishes and stop munching on cheese plates, your community will quickly notice that your habits have changed. Be prepared to answer any questions regarding the reasoning behind this decision.
6. Know Statistics
Unfortunately, many people have preconceived notions about veganism. Rather than being embarrassed, research statistical points that support the benefits of this lifestyle. Memorize statistics about the way that this diet improves overall health, impacts the sustainability of the planet, and supports mental health awareness.
Summary
Nearly 3% of the national population maintains a vegan diet. This trend has expanded exponentially in the last five years. Before embarking on a plant-based journey, learn the overall benefits that this diet can have on your health. When you eat plant-based, it is important that you monitor the intake of iron and protein in your everyday consumption. Be prepared to share your learnings with your peers.