Decided to give up animal food? Here are 10 things every novice vegan should know

Veganism is a way of life in which people refrain from eating or using any products and by-products of animal origin. The term "vegan" has long gone beyond the topic of nutrition and includes a complex philosophy of refusing to completely exploit animals.

SSPDaily writes, "If you're going to join this movement, you should know more about vegan nutrition, sources of essential nutrients, and which foods and dishes contain hidden animal ingredients. Make sure you have a complete understanding of your nutritional needs and know how to meet them on a vegan diet."

Here are 10 things every novice vegan should know.

How serious are your intentions?

Going vegan is a lifestyle choice that involves certain ethical, environmental, and health considerations. And to stay motivated and focused along the way, it's important to be clear about why you want to make such a drastic change in your view of the world.

Learn all about proper nutrition

Avoiding animal products means you have to get all the nutrients you need from other sources.

Research this issue in detail and create a meal plan that includes a variety of plant-based sources of protein, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron-rich foods.

Be prepared for possible experiments

If you are switching from a diet with animal products to a plant-based diet, you may experience cravings for certain foods at first. Finding vegan alternatives or experimenting with new plant-based recipes will help you get rid of them.

Learn to find hidden animal products

Many processed foods contain non-obvious ingredients of animal origin. Familiarize yourself with the list and carefully check product labels to make sure they are suitable for vegans.

Seek support from like-minded people

Going vegan can be psychologically challenging if you don't have a support system. By joining vegan groups or socializing with other vegans, you will actually join the movement, get useful tips and resources, and feel more like a full-fledged member of this community.

Make your diet more varied

Explore a variety of plant-based foods and ingredients to provide yourself with a wide range of nutrients. Experiment with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds to expand your culinary options.

Be prepared for active socializing

Be prepared to participate in social events and dinners, and be aware that this will require some extra planning and communication.

Think about supplements

While a well-planned vegan diet provides most of the nutrients you need, you may need some supplements, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if you need them, and if so, learn which ones.

Don't judge yourself harshly

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle takes time, and you may have slip-ups. Be kind to yourself and realize that progress is more important than perfection.

Enjoy your new life

Going vegan is an opportunity to discover new flavors, recipes, and cooking methods. Accept it as an interesting life experience and enjoy exploring the world of plant-based cuisine.