Are you vegan? A simple question, yet one that can lead to a myriad of responses, especially in today's ever-evolving landscape of dietary choices and lifestyles. I get asked this one a quite often. Every year in January I post about my "Dry Veganuary" reset after the holiday season replete with pictures of my culinary creations. It doesn't stop there either. I continue to eat "vegan-ish" throughout the year and it is often my vegan dishes that I post to my socials but...
I am Plant-Based, Not Vegan
"I'm not vegan, but I follow a plant-based diet." This statement might feel like a tightrope walk between two dietary ideologies, but in reality, it's a nuanced approach that more and more individuals are adopting--myself included. I started this in 2016 and with vegan food content creators from all over the world posting tips and tricks, it is now easier to make incredible dishes that are entirely plant-based. Embracing a plant-based lifestyle doesn't necessarily mean forgoing all animal products; rather, it emphasizes the incorporation of whole, plant-based foods as the cornerstone of one's diet. As a result, my meat consumption is way down. I reserve it for dinner dates, birthdays, holidays, and fun nights out. When I am home I eat eggs, some fish, and cheese but my plate largely consists of deliciously prepared veggies.
...but if you want to make me a delicious steak I will not say no!
What Does Plant-Based Mean?
At its core, a plant-based diet revolves around consuming predominantly fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds while limiting or eliminating the intake of animal products. The emphasis is on whole, minimally processed foods that provide an array of nutrients vital for overall health and well-being.
Let's face it, aging without regard for what one consumes is a perilous road. I'm 38 soon to be 39 and my knees already sound like rice krispy treats from years of running and sports. I want to age as gracefully as I can and, for me, that has meant more and more plants on top of a Mediterranean diet.
The Plant-Based Spectrum
One of the beauties of a plant-based lifestyle is its flexibility. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach; rather, it encompasses a spectrum that allows individuals to tailor their dietary choices to suit their preferences and needs. Whether you choose to occasionally indulge in dairy or incorporate eggs into your meals, the plant-based spectrum accommodates a variety of dietary inclinations. If you love steak, burgers, and pizza just add a lot more plants on the side!
I hope this helps with your curiosity regarding the "Are you vegan?" question. Again, I am not and I love trying a wide variety of foods from different cultures. Just so you know, I love unreasonably spicy foods that are savory and pair well with citrus.
Embracing Diversity in Dietary Choices
In a world where dietary labels are often used to box us into predefined categories that are often weaponized against us, the beauty of a plant-based lifestyle lies in its adaptability and inclusivity. The central theme is eat lots of veggies while enjoying (or not) whatever else you want with them. It's about celebrating the abundance of plant foods while recognizing that individual dietary journeys may vary and that that's ok.
So, the next time you're faced with wanting to book a dinner date with me or anyone else, and you're wondering "Is she vegan?" remember first ASK!!! The provider you are meeting with will surely tell you. Secondly, we can all stand to have a great deal more plants in our diets. You will be contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future – one plant-based meal at a time.
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