World Vegan Day 2020- Facts and Common Myths

Going vegan is almost become like a trend. World Vegan Day – observed annually on 1st November is the best time to discuss about the diet. The day marks the founding day of The Vegan Society in the United Kingdom. World Vegan Day is celebrated to encourage people to follow a vegan lifestyle, which may benefit human health as it is for animal welfare and of course, the natural environment.

Vegan Day is an opportunity to promote the benefits of a vegan diet and veganism in general. The term was coined by Donald Watson and derived from the word Vegetarian. At that time, the differentiation was that Vegans did not consume dairy products. Later this extended to eggs, and by 1951, veganism had become a movement of people who did not partake in the exploitation of animals.

Difference between being Vegan and being Vegetarian

The only common thing between the two is a shared avoidance of meat products. However, the similarity ends here – and there are many differences.  Vegan is a person who does not consume or use products derived from animals. A vegan diet contains only plant-based foods. People adopt veganism to avoid exploitation of animals.

To be vegan is to avoid all animal based products (meat is just one animal based product) – including dairy (milk, cheese, ghee, butter) and products like honey. This does not apply to vegetarians as many vegetarians in India have a heavy dairy inclusive diet. Hence, these people are often called Lacto-vegetarians, precisely for this reason.

Eat only Organic? Not Really

Eating only organic is certainly not a requirement to be vegan. To eat organic fruits and vegetables is entirely a preference. Many vegans consume traditionally grown fruits and vegetables as well. And the science on which is ‘better’ is still evolving and mixed, in terms of consensus.

Vegan and Nutrition

A misconception around the diet is that pursuing it leads to overall poorer nutrition. One needs to do a cursory research before committing to a diet change – be it vegan or not. Diet change can often be a significant decision that warrants at least some research. Also, if you are suffering from any kind of ailment like Diabetes, BP, then it is important to consult your doctor regarding the same.

If all animal products are left out, there’s the possibility of a reduced consumption of protein, iodine, calcium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and omega 3 fatty acids. Each of these nutrients has a viable alternative (especially protein) that is either based on food substitutes or simple supplements. If you are a vegan, then consult your nutritionist for alternatives.

Some plant based alternatives are coming up with the growing vegan community in India. There are soya products with lentils and beans being another good source. There’s actually a host of plant-based dairy products to choose from – even a simple staple like milk can be substituted with soya milk, almond milk and cashew milk. A healthy portion of leafy vegetables takes cares of vitamins, and as for Vitamin D – it can be tackled by (socially distant for now) exposure to sunlight.

Some important quotes on being Vegan

*The  best year of track competition was the first year I ate a vegan diet-Carl Lewis

*Nothing will benefit human health and increase the chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet-Albert Einstein

*I do recommend the vegan diet because you wake up and feel great!-Jennifer Lopez

*I’ve found that a person does not need protein from meat to be a successful athlete. In fact, my best year of track competition was the first year I ate a vegan diet-Carl Lewis

*Your choice of diet can influence your long term health prospects more than any other action you might take-C. Everett Koop

*I can’t think of anything better in the world to be but a vegan-Alicia Silverstone

*The vegan diet is healthy and leads to a compassionate lifestyle. I’ve gotten so many benefits. My weight is easily maintained, my skin glows, I sleep better and I feel more energized-Meagan Duhamel

Though, many feel that the diet is about being fashionable.  But for the vast majority of vegans, the diet is one that aligns with their values of stopping their share of unabridged animal cruelty done in the name of producing food items for consumption. It also objectively takes a lesser toll on the environment, an outcome that is collectively favourable (or at least should be) to all of us.