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Veganism is a type of vegetarian diet that excludes meat, eggs, dairy products and all other animal-derived ingredients. Many vegans also do not eat foods that are processed using animal products, such as refined white sugar and some wines. It rejects the philosophy of commodity status of animal. Vegan refers to either a person who follows this way of eating or to the diet itself. The origin of veganism is unknown, although it has been attributed and practiced from the Indus Valley civilisation to the Greeko-Roman civilisation.
The Greek sage Pythagoras may have advocated an early form of strict vegetarianism. Pythagoras was distinguished by such purity and so avoided killing and killers that he not only abstained from animal foods, but even kept his distance from cooks and hunters There are several categories of veganism which may include dietary vegans or strict vegetarians who refrain from consuming animal products, not only meat but also eggs, dairy products and other animal-derived substances.
The term ethical vegan is often applied to those who not only follow a vegan diet but extend the philosophy into other areas of their lives, and oppose the use of animals for any purpose. Another term is environmental veganism, which refers to the avoidance of animal products on the premise that the harvesting or industrial farming of animals is environmentally damaging and unsustainable.
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A colourful vegan pizza... there are vegan alternatives for almost every type of commonly consumed food.
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What do vegans eat, then? A vegan diet includes all grains, beans, legumes, vegetables and fruits, and the nearly infinite number of foods made by combining them. In addition, many vegan versions of familiar foods are available, so you can eat vegan hot dogs, ice cream, cheese, non-dairy yogurt and vegan mayonnaise along with the more familiar veggie burgers and other meat substitute products. Many foods are associated with veganism, such as soy milk, non-dairy milk substitutes and tofu, but many non-vegans also enjoy tofu, also!
Is “Vegan” a synonym for vegetarian, or is it entirely different? A vegetarian excludes meat, poultry, and seafood from their diet. Some vegetarians also exclude dairy, some do not, and some may consume eggs. Likewise, vegans avoid meat, poultry, and seafood, but they also take it a step further by eliminating all animal products from their diet... and often their lifestyle, too.
This includes any type of animal milk and eggs. Vegans avoid foods produced using animals or animal products in any way, including honey. Many vegans also avoid household products, clothing, or other items made from animal products or tested on animals. As long as nutritional requirements are met, adopting a plant-based diet offers you a huge range of health benefits. The risk of developing many awful health conditions is greatly reduced by avoiding red meat etc, organic food heart and cardiovascular system benefits, brain benefits, all the processes in your body benefit.
So, go vegan - if you can - there's no greener lifestyle!
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