More and more people are becoming vegan each day for many different reasons. Not only does it benefit people health wise, it also makes a statement for animal rights. Veganism isn’t just a diet, it becomes a lifestyle. It affects what can be worn wear, what products can be used and, of course, what can be eaten.

There are many things that separate veganism from vegetarianism. Vegetarians don’t eat meat, but do still use and wear animal by-products such as leather and silk. Vegans completely cut out eating or using animal and animal by-products because we’re completely against animal abuse which includes not eating any dairy products. Veganism is about doing the least harm to animals. Humans have already taken away their living space. Do we have to kill them for unnessary purposes also?

Animals are abused and disfigured everyday in factory farms. Factory farms are large operations that breed and raise animals. The people who work in factory farms have no disregard for the animals well being, it’s all about the money. Finding this out, my thought process on meat quickly changed.  How could I have pets and say I’m an animal lover but still be okay with this? So I started my path in veganism which has been short but very beneficial. I no longer view meat the same knowing the process of how it gets here and how the animals are treated. Yes, I agree that it tastes good, but I would rather not eat something that was once living and breathing.

So what do I eat? Everything. Being vegan, you don’t focus on what you can’t eat, but what you can eat. There’s a vegan substitute for everything for people who still want to enjoy the taste of meats and dairy products. Most vegan foods are 100% organic so you don’t have to worry about eating some weird looking, processed fake meat. The health benefits of veganism range from reducing the risk of heart disease due to eliminating dairy and meat from your diet to adding an extra 3-6 years on the average human lifespan. Veganism has benefited me so far by giving me more energy throughout the day.

Veganism is just one of the many ways you can help animals. It isn’t for everybody, but if it’s something you’re thinking about doing, do your research and talk to your doctor before making a commitment to this lifestyle.