Vegan Lifestyle:
Vegan by definition, refers to anything that is free of animal products like: Meat, Fish, Milk Cheese, Eggs, Wool, Leather, Honey and other animal-based products. It doesn’t necessarily always refer to something that is consumed or eaten. [1]
There are various reasons to choose a Vegan lifestyle. Many people have a restricted diet that only permits them eating plant-based foods. Some take a moral issue with the treatment of animals and the perception of consuming them and others see the strong nutritious benefits of Veganism.
A new moderation to the traditional Vegan Diet has emerged as a popular trend. Raw Veganism is a plant-based diet that involves no cooking. The concept surrounding this diet is that cooking or subjecting food to high temperatures may decimate its nutritional value. This theory has been widely debated by nutritionists worldwide as more research continues to grow. [2]
Vegetarian vs. Vegan:
There is often some confusion on the difference between Vegetarian and Vegan. A Vegetarian Diet Plan involves not consuming any meat. This includes beef, chicken, pork, turkey, game, duck, fish and shellfish, plus any other animal protein, stock or gelatin. Luckily, there are various delicious Vegetarian Recipes that include wholesome foods to support balanced nutrition.
On the other hand, Veganism is a stricter form of the Vegetarian Diet. Vegans also avoid consuming all forms of meat or animal byproducts. Furthermore, a Vegan Lifestyle involves rejecting all exploitations of animals for products. This includes avoiding all meat, dairy and animal byproducts, leather goods, wool, silk and latex. [3]
Thriving without Meat:
The biggest apprehension that most people have before going Vegan involves nutrition. A huge portion of a typical diet is revolved around eating meat. Many people receive most of their protein from meat and dairy sources.
Fortunately, you can thrive on the Vegan Diet without Meat or Dairy. There are many alternatives Plant Protein Sources that are just as nutritious and flavorful. Below are a few of our favorites.
Vegan Diet List of Top 7 Protein Sources:
1. Black Beans:
Black Beans are a Protein-Rich food source that can be utilized in a variety of different cuisines. They are also a natural source for Iron, Folate, Potassium, Fiber, Phosphorous and Manganese.
2. Tofu/Edamame:
Tofu, Edamame and Tempeh all originate from Soybeans. Soybeans are a great source for Protein and Essential Amino Acids. Tofu is made by pressing soybeans together and mixing with water. It’s used in a variety of popular Vegan Dishes for its nutritional value and neutral flavor. It has long been revered as one of the best substitutes for meat.
3. Nuts:
Nuts and Nut Butters are world renowned as one of the most nutritious savory snack choices. There are a variety of nuts from Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Cashews and Peanuts that offer a perfect source of Vegan Protein. They also contain Omega Fatty Acids and other Essential Vitamins and Minerals.
4. Hemp Seed:
Hemp Seed is a highly-trending food source that is heavily touted by the Vegan community. It’s a natural source of Protein, Magnesium and Omega Fatty Acids (3,6,9) and is traditionally consumed as Hemp Seed Oil.
5. Mushrooms:
Mushrooms have long been embedded in Chinese cultural and wellness practices for centuries. There are a variety of mushroom types that have recently emerged in wellness practices such as Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Reishi Mushroom, Cordyceps, Chaga Mushroom and more! They are naturally rich with compounds like Polysaccharides and Lentinan for nutritious support.
6. Spirulina:
This Blue-Green Algae is a superb source for protein and other Vitamins and Minerals. It’s a natural source of Magnesium and Compounds like Phycocyanin, that contain strong antioxidant concentration.
7. Chia Seeds:
Chia Seeds are an abundant nutrition source that are great for snacking. They carry Iron, Omega EFAs, Magnesium and other antioxidant compounds for wellness support. Chia Seeds are a perfect addition to Yogurt, Smoothies, Oatmeal and other Superfood Snack Recipes. [4]
It can be difficult to receive all the vitamins and minerals your body need to thrive through diet alone. Doing so requires perfect nutrition from a variety of foods. Supplements provide a great way to support your diet with additional nutrients from natural sources.
However, many supplement brands strictly carry products that are sourced with animal byproducts, dairy and Non-Vegan ingredients. This makes it frustrating to find supplements that fit your lifestyle. Fortunately, there is a solution to this dilemma that doesn’t involve a lifestyle change…
Piping Rock’s Vegan Products:
Piping Rock carries a wide assortment of over 250 Vegan Products to satisfy all your wellness needs. Find everything from Bulk Herbs, Nuts & Seeds, Dried Fruit, Herbal Supplements, Liquid Extracts, Essential Oils, Beauty Items and much more!
Enjoy some of our Vegan beauty favorites like Hyaluronic Acid Serum, Max Biotin and Castor Oil, or daily wellness items like Melatonin, Blackseed Oil, MCT Oil and Vitamin C. We pride ourselves on the vast depth of our assortment, elite sourcing and exceptional value of our products.
Don’t compromise your lifestyle or change your diet to adhere to your supplement regiment. Piping Rock’s Vegan selection is great for any lifestyle and suitable for both Men and Women!
