Many people claim that they love animals and they want to stop contributing to their slaughter, but often find it hard to align their actions with their values. There are various concerns that tend to hold them back, such as the fear that their body will become weak, or that a plant based diet is boring and expensive. But is that so?
Myth No. 1
Vegan food is tasteless and boring
This claim has no foundation, unless it refers to our culinary options 50 years ago. Today, things are completely different. In response to prevailing culinary trends, the food industry has been forced to adapt to changing consumer demands, offering nutritious, high – quality foods, that are entirely plant – based. Most traditional recipes are now available in their vegan versions and almost all restaurants have vegan options on their menu. It is also worth noting that several of the dishes we already consume have been vegan all along. A great example of this can be demonstrated by taking a look at our traditional Greek cuisine, which is primarily plant – based and therefore perfectly suitable for anyone who wants to follow a vegan diet. Lentils, green beans, stuffed vegetables, spinach rice and peas are just a few examples of dishes we already enjoy, and can continue to enjoy after our transition to veganism.
Myth No2
Vegan food will isolate you and negatively affect your social life.
We assure you that this is completely untrue! Today, there are vegan options everywhere and it is very easy to make up your own dish at any restaurant, even if there are no explicitly vegan options available. It is important to remember the reasons behind your decision to follow a plant – based diet and learn how to support that decision in your social life. It is very likely that you will end up inspiring the people around you to consider making the same transition.
Myth No 3
A vegan diet is costly & time – consuming
Adopting a vegan diet is neither costly, nor time - consuming. To the contrary, a diet based on fruits, vegetables, legumes and grains/cereals is actually much cheaper than one including meat and other animal – derived products. All you need is proper planning. As far as food preparation is concerned, spending a few minutes in the kitchen is more than enough to prepare a tasty and nutritious vegan meal. You may even choose one day, when you are able to dedicate a couple of hours to prepare your meals for the week ahead. When dining out, things are much easier than what you imagine. Every restaurant, even steak houses, offer vegan options, even if they aren’t labelled as such. All you have to do is ask for a plate of grilled vegetables and a side of rice (or French fries if you are feeling adventurous), and in just a few minutes you will can enjoy a delicious vegan meal, for which no animal lost its life.
Myth No4
Following a vegan diet may lead to nutritional deficiencies
In actual fact, a vegan diet is richer in fiber, magnesium, folic acid, vitamin C and E than an omnivorous one. The only vitamin that is trickier to obtain is B12, however, by following a balanced diet and taking one B12 supplement a day, you will be able to obtain all necessary nutrients.
Myth No5
You won’t get enough protein
This is the most common myth. Several plant – based foods are rich in protein, including lentils, beans, whole grains, soy, mushrooms, rice, corn, etc. Even professional athletes, who exercise daily, can easily increase their protein intake from plants.
Think about it…the animals you used to eat, got their protein from plants too.
