Plant-Based and Vegan. Two terms typically confused as one meaning but vary in lifestyles.
Vegans donโt eat anything made from animals including dairy and eggs (which most vegetarians eat). But Veganism doesnโt stop at food, it dives furthers into a lifestyle philosophy of not using anything made from an animal including products such as toiletries, clothes, accessories, beauty products, and more.
This includes anything tested on animals as well. Most vegans are vegan not only because of health reasons but for environmental and ethical reasons.
Plant-based can be referred to as a type of veganism because you only eat plants. Plant-based means only eating items coming from a plant, or are whole foods, free of artificial ingredients and added preservatives. Think natural.
One thing vegans eat that plant-based goers donโt are processed foods. Many believe theyโll lose weight instantly from going vegan, but thatโs not true. Many even gain weight because they think they can eat processed vegan food in unlimited amounts. Letโs not forget itโs still processedโฆ
A plant-based item is always vegan, but a vegan item is not always plant-based, so make sure to check! Remember, most plant-based items donโt have a nutrition label. Those that do wonโt have many ingredients, especially ones you arenโt familiar with.
When transitioning your eating lifestyle, it is easier for some to go vegan first as they can make many faux meat meals and then slowly transition to plant-based.
The takeaway? Do what works for you!