Veganism- Keeping an Open Mind
World vegan month is officially November, but January marks the beginning of many health journeys, as there is a natural willingness to start a new way of eating that can have great repercussions in your lifestyle in the long term. The most difficult step of them all is of course, to start and to keep an open mind.
If trying a vegan diet has been in your mind you are not alone. Approximately 1 in 5 Canadians would like to reduce their meat intake and in total vegans and vegetarians make up to 9.4% of the Canadian population, the majority of whom are under 35 years old and live in beautiful British Columbia.
The benefits of a plant-based diet are plentiful and bountiful, from decreasing cholesterol and lipids levels, reducing the risk of diseases such as diabetes and obesity, to increasing diversity in gut microbiome, which is closely linked to immunity response, mental health and regulation of critical functions of the digestive tract.
However how do we combine the science-backed evidence of such a benefits with the practicality of everyday life and the many dietary preferences as unique as each one of us? In two words, you should keep an open mind.
Let’s review the key points of what veganism is and how it has grown exponentially since its official creation in 1944 by Donald Watson, when he decided to use the first three letters and the last two letters of the word vegetarian.
The first Vegan Society was created by Mr. Watson in Britain, and at its core is a philosophy that states preventing the exploitation of animals for food, clothing, medication and entertainment as a way of not only eating, but also living. Veganism slowly made its way to the United States where the American Vegan Society was created in 1960.
The concept is not ground-breaking nor novel in human history; eastern religions such as Buddhism or Taoism have similar principles around animal treatment and ways of eating. In modern times the term has evolved to include ethical, health and environmental concerns. Veganism is not only a way of eating, but also a lifestyle and a definitive stand on topics that are pressing and in need of addressing.
Other nutrients that will need special attention are fats, as it seems these are the main macronutrients that are lowered when becoming vegan and are necessary for hormonal and mental health. EPA and DHA, important for normal growth and development as well as cardiovascular and brain health, and inflammation control in the body are also on the list. Iron, zinc, calcium, B12 and vitamin D should be monitored closely.
Special attention should be paid to how your body digests certain foods and how you feel not only after a meal, but also throughout the day. If necessary start slowly, incorporating as many changes as you feel comfortable with, and monitor how you respond to the new changes.
Paying close attention to your body’s reactions is what makes a way of eating, your way of eating. Honouring your body’s needs and developing a sustainable way of eating that aligns with your beliefs and way of seeing the world is a remarkable task. Be patient and keep an open mind. Self-care is also choosing a way of eating that makes you feel vibrant, alive and healthy.