Why Vegan?
Discover the philosophy, benefits, and impact of choosing a plant-based lifestyle.
The Philosophy
What is Veganism?
Veganism means avoiding animal products, for ethical, health or environmental reasons.
Veganism extends beyond dietary choices into a comprehensive lifestyle philosophy. It encompasses avoiding all animal-derived products including meat, dairy, eggs, honey, and gelatin, plus materials like leather, wool, and silk.
A conscious choice to live in harmony with the earth and all sentient beings.
The Origin Story
A Brief History of Veganism
The term "vegan" was coined in 1944 by Donald Watson, a British woodworker, by combining the first and last letters of the word "vegetarian."
That same year, Watson founded the Vegan Society and published The Vegan News to promote their philosophy of "living solely on plant-based foods free from meat, dairy, eggs, and any products derived from animals."
What started as a modest ethical movement has transformed into a worldwide lifestyle embraced by millions.
Fuel Your Body
Vegan Nutrition
A well-formulated plant-based diet includes fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. These foods are naturally low in saturated fats, free of cholesterol, and packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
Variety & Balance
Variety and balance form the foundation of optimal nutrition.
Healthy Fats
Plant-based oils like flaxseed, hemp, and coconut provide healthy fats and omega-3s supporting cardiovascular and cognitive health.
Complete Nutrition
Essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your overall health and wellbeing.
The Movement
Why Go Vegan?
Veganism represents a social justice movement opposing exploitative practices and environmental harm.
Ethics
Avoid cruelty and exploitation in the meat, dairy, and egg industries.
Health
A whole food plant-based diet helps prevent and reverse many chronic diseases.
Environment
Veganism reduces your carbon footprint, water usage, and land exploitation.
Got Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Veganism Healthy?
A well-planned vegan diet can be healthy. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics states that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate and appropriate for all stages of life, and may help prevent and treat some diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Planning matters: see the nutrients question below.
What Do Vegans Eat?
Anything that does not come from an animal: fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, grains and plant oils. Restaurants also make vegan versions of burgers, pizza, tacos, sushi, baked goods, ice cream and cheese; our dish pages list where to find them.
Can You Lose Weight on a Vegan Diet?
Weight loss is achievable because plant-based foods are often lower in calories and higher in fiber, which helps you feel full longer and avoid overeating. However, processed vegan foods high in sugar and oil shouldn't dominate one's diet for optimal results. Sustainable weight loss requires focus on whole, nutrient-dense meals and physical activity.
Do Vegans Have Nutrient Deficiencies?
A balanced vegan diet can cover most nutrients, but vitamin B12 is not reliably found in plant foods, so vegans need a supplement or fortified foods. Calcium, iron, vitamin D, iodine and omega-3 fats also need attention; sources include fortified foods, leafy greens, legumes, chia, walnuts and flax. A doctor or registered dietitian can advise for your situation.
Do Vegans Eat Eggs?
No, vegans do not eat eggs or any animal products. Most hens live in overcrowded, stressful conditions, and male chicks who cannot lay eggs are typically killed shortly after hatching. Plant-based egg alternatives include flaxseed eggs, chia eggs, aquafaba, and commercial replacers.
Do Vegans Get Cancer?
Yes; no diet prevents cancer. In 2015 the World Health Organization's cancer agency (IARC) classified processed meat as carcinogenic to humans, based mainly on colorectal cancer, and red meat as probably carcinogenic. Some studies link diets high in plant foods with lower risk of some cancers, but the evidence varies by cancer type.
Ready to try it? Find vegan food near you, pick a specific dish, or browse the city guides.