Veganism is hot in Hollywood and everywhere else these days. Why Vegan? There are a variety of reasons people choose to embrace the vegan lifestyle … for the animals, environment and/or good health. Vegans believe in following a cruelty-free lifestyle, which means they avoid using any products that use animals in any way. How much do you really know about being a vegan?

One of the biggest misconceptions about veganism is that it’s dangerous, but what does the research say? According to The Vegan RD, the research used to make claims against veganism doesn’t really stand up to close scrutiny. For instance, many experts recommend that vegans consume fortified foods or take vitamin supplements to avoid deficiencies. However, omnivores are just as likely to develop deficiencies without proper nutrition. So, it would seem, vegans are not so different after all. We should all be mindful of our diets to ensure we’re getting everything we need to stay healthy. As always, it’s best to consult a medical professional before making any major changes to your diet.

Do you have a vegan coming for dinner? Cooking vegan-style isn’t necessarily difficult – it’s just a matter of knowing what to include and what to exclude from the dishes you’ll be serving. Most of us already know that vegans and vegetarians don’t eat meat, but vegans also avoid all items manufactured using animal byproducts. Vegans believe in living a cruelty-free lifestyle in every way. Want to be absolutely sure a product is vegan? Look for the “Certified Vegan” symbol on the package or label. If you’re still unsure about certain dishes or products — try asking a vegan friend or family member. Your local library can help too! We have a great selection of vegan cookbooks to help you prepare your very own vegan feast.

5 Vegan Facts That May Surprise You:

• Salad dressings and sauces may contain non-vegan ingredients.

5 OilFree, DairyFree Salad Dressings — One Green Planet Vegan Worcestershire Sauce — Forks Over Knives

• Some sugars may not be vegan.

Is Your Sugar Vegan? — The Vegetarian Resource Group Vegan Sugar Substitutes — Livestrong.com

• Some alcoholic beverages may not be vegan.

Fact Sheet on Alcoholic Beverages — Vegetarian Society Vegan Alcohol – Vegan.com

• Vegans do not eat honey.

Why Won’t Vegans Eat Honey? — SF Gate 4 Must Try Honey Alternatives — Vegetarian Times

• Traditional gelatin is not vegetarian or vegan.

Gelatin Is Made Out of What? — POPSUGAR Fitness Vegan Gelatin Recipe — Allrecipes.com

Veganism for Beginners

Vegan Cookbooks in Print

Vegan Cookbooks in eBooks

Vegans/Veganism – Online Resources

12 Things You Need To Know Before Going Vegan – Health.com

How Healthy Are Vegan Diets? – Oprah.com

Vegan.com – Making Vegan Easy

How To Go Vegan – The Vegan Society

14 Best Vegan and Vegetarian Plant Sources – Health.com

Ingredient Substitution Guide – Vegetarian Times

No Eggs, No Problem: How to avoid the most common vegan baking mistakes – Bon Appétit

20 Easy Vegan Dinners – Real Simple

Vegan Quick & Easy Recipes – Oh She Glows

Top 50 Vegan Blogs – Academy of Culinary Nutrition

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Disclaimer: This blog provides information for educational purposes only. Always consult a medical professional before starting any new diet or exercise plan.