SIX MOST COMMON EXCUSES FOR NOT GOING VEGAN

Vegan myths and misconceptions are abundant. Many non-vegans have a skewed perspective of what true plant-based eating looks like. Because of this misinformation, non-vegans miss out on the value of a diet that isn't just good for the body, but for the rest of the planet too. Knowledge is valuable. The next time you have a discussion with your non-vegan friend, you can help them see the perks - not the talking points.

1. " I don't want to limit my diet." The vegan diet is about expanding not subtracting. What goes unrealized is that a lot of the foods many people eat are already vegan: pasta, noodles, bread, fruits, veggies, nuts, legumes, etc. All those yummy foods are still available under veganism.

2.  "It's too expensive to eat vegan." Eating vegan is only expensive if you're splurging on expensive food. Vegan burgers and other luxury meat substitutes will still cost a little more than something as simple as tofu. You won't break the bank if you eat simple, fulfilling meals.

3.  "Meat substitutes are bland." Cooking takes time and patience. Even if you swear you're a chef, you can still overcomplicate pan-searing tofu. For those, who never start, the concept of faux meat might seem yucky. However, meat substitutes are not only diverse, the market for alt-meat is always coming up with new bases for vegan meat that taste immaculate.

4. "I wouldn't stick to it." If going vegan seems daunting, then scale it back. Instead of making a lifestyle change overnight, start small. Incorporate one plant-based dish into your meals. Learn one new vegan recipe. Swap out a food with a plant-based alternative. Good habits are built by consistency, but they are sustained with pleasure so have fun in your journey.

5.  "There are no vegan grocery stores near me." You don't need a vegan grocery store or supermarket to still eat healthy. You can find vegan staples like canned beans, peanut butter, rice, and mixed veggies at your regular stores. If you are searching for specific items, you can get them online. Additionally. if you can't find what you want, you can also grow food from your own back yard.

6.   "It's not a good way to get protein." Having a wide variety of protein sources does not mean you are not getting protein. As long as you have a diverse balance of plant-based protein, you can not only hit your daily intake but also exceed it. Plant fibers are not bad for your body! While it is technically true that the body has a harder time digesting plant fiber, your body stills benefits when plant fibers promote gut digestion.

Misconceptions don't have to be reality. If you are thinking about transitioning to a plant-based diet or even simply learning more about it, stick to the facts. The vegan diet has long been misunderstood but with the right open-mindedness, you can help make it clear to other people.