4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting a Vegan Diet
With 2023 just around the corner, many are looking to switch up their diets come the New Year. According to a WebMD article, “Nearly 2 of every 3 U.S. adults (63%) plan to change up their diet in 2022, either by eating less or cutting back on specific foods, poll results reveal.” With the most popular diet trend being cited as Veganism, Sparkle Market has the answers to everything you need to know before starting the diet!
What exactly is Veganism?
In dietary terms, Veganism is against consumption of all products derived wholly or partly from animals. Vegans avoid exploiting animals for any purpose, with compassion being a key reason many choose a vegan lifestyle. From accessories and clothing to makeup and bathroom items, animal products and products tested on animals are found in more places than you might expect. However, starting with your diet and working your way up to product switching is normal and how most Vegans start.
How much does it change my current diet?
Short answer: not by much! A vegan diet is richly diverse and comprises all kinds of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, seeds and beans – all of which can be prepared in endless combinations that will ensure you’re never bored. From curry to cake, pastries to pizzas, all your favorite things can be suitable for a vegan diet if they’re made with plant-based ingredients.
How expensive is keeping and maintaining being vegan?
While consistently purchasing fresh fruit and vegetables can add up, studies have shown that it’s actually a good cost cutting diet. The Press Herald recently did a study where they found that, “vegan diets were the most economical and could reduce grocery bills by as much as 34% compared to the food costs of a typical Western diet.” Popular blog, I Love Vegan, has a list of tips such as how to price match and how to grocery shop that are incredibly helpful when starting out.
What are recipes to try?
Ready to take the leap and try out some vegan dishes? Thankfully you can still enjoy all your favorite foods from before with a little creativity. Meals don’t have to be filled with raw veggies and rice, try out old comfort favorites like Sparkle’s Spaghetti and Vegan Meatball recipe or our Vegetarian Quesadillas as a way to slowly transition into more daring choices. Also, try out our tasty Fried Cauliflower dish (just use an egg substitute, like applesauce) and our Veggie Panini and Green Bean Potato Casserole minus the cheese!
Stop in at Sparkle and grab all the needed ingredients to beginning your diet before the New Year! Sign up for our Sparkle E-Deals and get weekly recipes and specials delivered right to your inbox!