Vegan vs Plant-Based 101

If you haven’t heard, vegan is the word. But there’s also another word out there gaining a lot of attention all over social media and even in conversations with friends, family, and coworkers. That word is plant-based.

Are these words one-in-the-same or two different things?

There are numerous similarities between these diets but there are also some major differences.

Most of us aren’t getting our recommended daily intake of plants, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs. With the latest research on all of the negative effects of meat, dairy, and eggs on our bodies, people are beginning to question their food choices.

On Being Vegan

For most vegans, veganism isn’t really a diet.It’s a lifestyle of compassion for animals and our environment. Vegans abstain from eating and using any and all animal products. According to the Vegan Society, veganism seeks to exclude all forms of exploitation of and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. You can find out more here.

Taking the vegan plunge can be a super healthy way to live, and allows you to consume your veggies, fruits, nuts, seeds, grains, and herbs, but you’ll also be able to consume vegan oils, mayonnaise, cookies, chips, ice cream, processed foods, and even chocolate.

Plant-Based

A plant-based diet can be similar to a vegan diet or very different. Like veganism, fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and herbs are the focus.

You may find your body thrives on a plant-based diet. More plants and less or no meat, dairy, and eggs is the plant-based plan. Not so much about our environment or animal welfare, a plant-based diet is more about a person’s health and wellbeing. Basically, plant-based is just that: plant-based. Plants are your main source of nutrition and energy. Processed foods, refined foods, and junk foods are not. You want to load your body with healthy fruits and vegetables for the ultimate nutrition powerhouse for your longevity.

A dab of dairy butter on your beans? Ok!

A small piece of chicken with your salad? Sure!

A double cheeseburger and French fries? Absolutely not! Some basic guidelines are as follows.

  • No Junk Food
  • Healthy
  • Minimal or No Animal Products
  • Plants, Plants, Plants
  • Minimal or No Oils, Sugars, Refined Flours
  • No Processed Foods

People make different choices for different reasons for their health, the animals, and our Planet Earth. Vegan and plant-based can both create positive outcomes for life and vitality.

Which will you choose?

Interested in Plant-based and Vegan recipes? Plant Based / Vegan Recipes

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