What’s the hardest part about going vegan?
The most challenging part about living a vegan lifestyle is the mindset shift. Choosing vegan foods especially with family and friends can be tough because of the habits we have formed. As Americans we have staple foods that go along with occasions. For example baseball and hotdogs, 4th of July and BBQ, Football and chicken wings, and even going out with girlfriends for a girls night out there could be sushi. The good thing is that vegan options are spreading across restaurants and sporting arenas all over the nation to make these occasions vegan friendly. Coaches like myself teach you how to veganize any menu.
What sources of protein can you recommend for a vegan diet?
Protein sources for vegans are bountiful. There are a host of vegan proteins that are complete in amino acid profile such as quinoa, hemp seeds, soy, seitan, and lots more. Proteins such as seitan which is made of vital wheat gluten is a powerhouse for protein, 21 grams per 1 ounce. But don’t forget vegetables and legumes have a big protein punch too, such as chickpeas, black beans, lentils, broccoli, spinach, kale, and more. After a serious workout at the gym you will see people lined up for their protein shake at the juice bar, drinking a protein shake to repair and rebuild muscles is important for recovery. Those shakes are usually made of whey protein and dairy milk but you can make it vegan with plant based protein powders made of pea protein and choose almond milk; most juice bars have these options. Vegans have lots of choices.
What are some common myths with veganism, and what should people do instead?
Common myths about veganism; it’s expensive, veganism is only for white people, being vegan will make you skinny and weak, and the food is just grass or rabbit food. Let’s talk about veganism being expensive. Yes, Beyond Meat and fancy vegan cheeses can be pricey compared to animal products but these foods can save you hundreds of dollars on co-pays or prescriptions at the pharmacy from diseases like hypertension and high cholesterol . I like to encourage a plant based diet which is very cost effective. Vegetables, and fruits from the produce aisle can be under $3.00 per pound. Beans and legumes, rice, are some of the cheapest foods around the world. The common myth that veganism is only for white people is still very common. Now we can see so many examples of multicultural veganism from Ricky Martin to Lizzo. Vegans are strong and have serious gains. There’s a documentary called Game Changers on Netflix where they show the top vegan athletes from NFL players, to triathlon athletes, to MMA fighters. Vegans come in all shapes,sizes, and colors. Everyone that is vegan is not a size 2, lots of us have curves and muscles. Lastly, rabbit food! Have you seen the vegan burgers, pizza, donuts, and tacos recently? All vegans aren’t healthy but there’s a lot of fun in the food. Check yelp and Happy Cow for vegan restaurants near you and I promise you will be surprised how fun it can be. Try different cuisines such as Ethiopian, Indian, Jamaican foods. They have some of the most flavorful foods using a variety of spices.
