9 Tips For Going Vegan and Really Enjoying It

We’ve all thought about going vegetarian or vegan at one point or another. Whether you’ve made an attempt (or several) to go full vegan or cut back on meat, it’s definitely not always easy.

Veganism has become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only does it provide a number of health benefits, but it also promotes environmental sustainability and animal welfare.

However, many are hesitant to adopt a vegan lifestyle because they think it will be too difficult or unenjoyable to sustain long term.

We're here to reassure you, it doesn't have to be hard or even forever! We've laid out 9 tips to enjoy veganism and make the most out of this lifestyle change:

1. Try 2 “Meat-Free” Days a Week

It can seem almost unfeasible to go the rest of your life without eating another In-N-Out cheeseburger or your grandma’s famous lasagna.

Of course, some people do give up animal products for the entire course of their life, so how is it done?!

By taking it one day at a time. I like to think of vegan and vegetarianism similar to cutting out or lowering our alcohol intake.

Instead of saying, “I am never eating meat (or drinking alcohol) again!” Start by practicing a couple days a week, or take a month break from animal products. This is how you can start to take note how you feel without the undesired products.

Once you start feeling good about the decision and finding a sustainable way to continue your journey, you might start choosing meatless days because you want to rather than it feeling like an obligation.

The bigger picture is always most important! Even if you don’t go full vegan for the rest of your life, if you think you’ll feel better by eating animal meat say once a week, isn’t that better than giving up on your goals completely?

Which brings me to my next tip…

2. Don’t Get Tied Up in the Labels

The way society and media portray veganism is often “all or none.” You’re vegan or you’re not. But don’t worry about whether you’re going to say “I’m a vegan” or not.

You don’t have to identify as anything in order to make healthy changes to your lifestyle! This might help take the pressure off “slip ups.”

3. Find Other Things You Can Enjoy and Indulge In

These days, there are so many delicious vegan options, that you no longer have to feel like you’re “missing out” by being vegan-friendly.

For example, Grüvi Dry Secco and Bubbly Rosé wines are both vegan, gluten-free, and sulfite-free. You can enjoy a tasty, fancy treat all while still being kind to your body and the planet.

4. Air Fry Your Food

A lot of people who cut back on meat swear by this trick! If you’ve ever used an air fryer, you know it is an absolute game changer. And using it with vegetables is no exception.

Air frying keeps your food healthy, adds that crisp crunch that often feels “missing” from cooked vegetables, and really is like hitting the “easy” button. Don’t sleep on these yummy vegan air fryer recipes!

Tips for Going Vegan & Enjoying It

5. Season & Taste Often

Another great vegan-eating tip from a Grüvi team member is to taste often - especially with salt! You’ll typically salt more than you think you need, especially since veggies will always exhaust water out into the pan.

It’s always better to season frequently in smaller amounts, and taste just as frequently. This can be the difference in making your dish a star or a dud!

6. Use Fresh Veggies Over "Imitation Meat"

No shade on imitation meat, but sometimes preparing these “meats” at home doesn’t turn out as we hoped. Sure, the vegan restaurant down the street does it right, but when left to our own devices, our burgers might not be so great.

Cooking meals with fresh veggies can often be healthier (and tastier) and still provide you with sufficient protein. Green peas have up to 8g of protein per cup and spinach has up to 6g per cup. Not to mention all the other vitamins that come along with it!

Opt for fresh veggies when you can and pair with a vegan, gluten-reduced brew.

7. Find Vegan Versions of Your Favorite Foods

Going Vegan no longer means “giving up” anything! These days, there are vegan versions of just about everything - from burgers and pizza to ice cream and chocolate.

Do some research and find vegan versions of your favorite foods to make the transition to a vegan lifestyle much easier.

8. Join a Vegan Community

We all know support is crucial in any major life change. Joining a vegan community - whether that be online or in person - can be a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and find support, tips, and recommendations.

9. Revel in the Benefits

Stay focused on the numerous benefits of making changes to your diet. Get ready to reap the rewards of a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Focusing on these benefits can help you stay motivated and enjoy the positive changes that come with adopting a vegan lifestyle.

In addition to the health benefits, veganism is also better for the environment. The production of animal products is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By going even just halfway vegan, you are making a positive impact on the planet and can feel extra good about your choices.

Other Random Tips for Enjoying Going Vegan

• Roast veggies longer than you think you should
• Toss with chili flakes and lemon zest after cooking
• Soak diced sweet potatoes in salt water for an hour before roasting or air frying, air fry everything, but especially toful
• Always drain and rinse beans and chickpeas - save the aquafaba for vegan version of egg whites (great for mocktails!).
• Meal prep!!! Having a plan and intention can help us stick to our goal.

Feeling good about beginning your new vegan journey? Load up on some vegan bevs to celebrate all the little wins along the way!

This blog was written in part with Chat GPT and is not meant to be medical advice. Please consult with a medical professional, if necessary.