Don’t Fall for These Stupid Myths About Veganism

So, you’re ready to dive into the exciting vegan world! But, before you take the plunge, let’s debunk some of the common myths and misconceptions that might be lurking in the veggie aisle. 

Myth #1: You’ll Never Get Enough Protein on a Vegan Diet

Ah, the age-old protein question! Contrary to popular belief, getting protein on a vegan diet is totally achievable.

From hearty lentils and chickpeas to tofu, tempeh, and seitan, plant-based protein sources are plentiful and delicious. So, rest assured, your muscles will thank you for those veggie-packed gains!

Read more: Top 12 Most Absurd Reasons Not To Go Vegan

Myth #2: Going Vegan Means Saying Goodbye to Delicious Food

Did someone say boring salads and bland tofu? Think again! Vegan cuisine is a treasure trove of flavour, texture, and culinary creativity. 

From mouth-watering veggie curries and hearty bean chillis to indulgent vegan pizzas and creamy dairy-free desserts, there’s a world of deliciousness waiting to be explored. 

Myth #3: Veganism Is Expensive and Inconvenient

Time to bust out the calculator and put this myth to rest once and for all. Some vegan specialty products can indeed be a bit pricey. But, the majority of a plant-based diet consists of affordable staples like fruits, veggies, grains, and legumes. 

Plus, with the rise of vegan options in supermarkets and restaurants across the UK, eating plant-based has never been more convenient or accessible. Say goodbye to expensive steak dinners and hello to budget-friendly veggie feasts!

Myth #4: You’ll Be Nutrient Deficient Without Animal Products

With a little bit of know-how and some mindful meal planning, you can meet all of your nutritional needs on a vegan diet. There are plenty of plant-based sources of essential nutrients. From iron-rich leafy greens and calcium-packed tofu to vitamin B12-fortified foods and omega-3-rich flaxseeds.

Myth #5: Veganism Is Just a Fad

Oh, how wrong they are! Veganism isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a movement, a lifestyle, and a powerful force for positive change. With growing awareness of the environmental, ethical, and health implications of animal agriculture, more people are embracing plant-based living. 

Veganism serves as a compassionate and sustainable choice for animals and overall earth lovers. 

Myth #6: You Have to Give Up Your Favourite Foods

Not so fast! While some of your old favourites might undergo a vegan makeover, there’s no need to bid them a tearful farewell. Just like nutrients, you will enjoy all your favourites with the right adjustments.

Thanks to the wonders of modern food science and culinary innovation, there are vegan versions of almost everything these days. From burgers and hot dogs to cheese, chocolate, and even bacon! 

Myth #7: Veganism Is All or Nothing

While some folks might thrive on an all-or-nothing approach to veganism, others might prefer to ease into it gradually. Whether you go cold turkey or take baby steps towards a fully plant-based lifestyle, every little change you make counts. 

So, don’t let perfection be the enemy of progress — just do your best, and remember that every plant-based meal makes a difference!

Myth #8: Anyone Can Advise You on a Vegan Diet

A New York Times article dove into how ridiculous modern trends in food are becoming ridiculous – ruining even well-meaning diets like veganism. The article pointed out publicly available content, like the Netflix documentary, “What the Health” and how they can potentially misguide people. 

The documentary features ridiculous claims, such as “an egg a day is equivalent to smoking 5 cigarettes”. While making light of the laughable claims, the documentary is a reminder of the importance of sticking to science and legitimate sources. 

For instance, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology reiterates how healthier plant-based diets are but only when done right. The study followed the diets of over 200,000 healthy people free of chronic diseases for over 2 decades.

As part of the results, plant foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes had the highest healthy score. On the other hand, some foods that qualified as vegan-friendly, like potatoes, refined grains, and fries, ranked negatively among other food groups. 

They fell in the same category alongside juices, sweetened beverages, and animal foods. Participants who stuck to diets with positively rated foods were also less likely to develop heart disease. 

So, instead of blindly following “clean eating” influencers with “delicious alternatives to meat recipes”, equip yourself with accurate information. After all, not all plant foods are necessarily beneficial for your health.

Myth #9: Veganism Is Bad for the Environment

Research suggests otherwise. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that industrial animal farming accounts for over 10% of manmade greenhouse gas emissions globally. 

On the other hand, scientists at Stanford suggest embracing a vegan diet in large numbers can potentially cut down global food-related emissions by more than half the rate in just 15 years.

While veganism is good for the environment, it does have its drawbacks. Fortunately, you can do your part to keep them at bay. For instance, almond- and rice milk are good alternatives for vegans. However, they are “thirsty” – requiring a lot of water to make. 

However, alternatives like Soy or oat milk don’t take up as much water and can serve as excellent alternatives. Ultimately, research still suggests a vegan diet to be better for the environment.

Myth #10: Veganism is No Fun

Absolutely not! In fact, veganism is a vibrant, exciting, and endlessly rewarding lifestyle that’s bursting with fun and adventure. From exploring your culinary creativity to embracing community connection and ethical empowerment. Veganism offers more than a dietary change.

Practising Veganism Myth-Free

And there you have it, folks — the top myths debunked, busted, and banished to the land of misinformation where they belong. Armed with the truth and a newfound sense of confidence, you’re ready to take on the world as a proud vegan warrior! 

So, go forth, spread the plant-powered love, and remember to keep questioning, learning, and growing on your vegan journey. The animals, the planet, and your health will thank you for it.