Tips for Veganuary — How to go Vegan for Veganuary

Veganuary might be a term you’re familiar with or it might be brand new to you, but as the year draws to a close it’s something that you might hear more of. From discussions over ‘what is Veganuary?’ to new Veganuary 2024 products or vitamin and supplement bundles that can help you if you are trying out a plant based lifestyle, exploring veganism can open up new experiences and give you a chance to see what being vegan can feel like.

It started as a campaign in 2014 that aimed to encourage people to try a vegan lifestyle in January. It began in the UK but has picked up support around the world, with many people trying it out as part of their New Year’s resolutions and then many adopting it as part of a bigger lifestyle change.

Adopting a vegan lifestyle means stopping the consumption of animal products such as meat, dairy and eggs and considering an approach that doesn’t use any animal by products or impact the environment like other diets and lifestyles do. Veganuary has earned widespread support from individuals, organisations and celebrities across the world, and it has inspired many people to continue following a vegan diet even after January ends.

It’s important to remember that everyone's vegan and plant based experience is unique, and it's okay to take small steps toward a more plant-based lifestyle and this can mean small swaps or changes rather than a complete overhaul.

If you’re curious to try out veganism or a plant based diet this Veganuary, we have some top tips for you:

● Educate yourself
Before taking on the Veganuary challenge, teach yourself about plant-based nutrition and the impact it could have on your diet and wellbeing. This can include considering essential vitamins and supplements or all in one vitamins and supplements to ensure you are getting all the essential nutrients that your body needs. It’s also wise to make sure you’re comfortable with what vegan choices there are available to you and any changes it might mean for your daily routine.
● Plan your meals
There’s a saying ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’ and this is true for any lifestyle change, but especially if switching to a vegan style lifestyle is a big change. Plan your meals in advance to ensure a balanced and satisfying diet and that you won’t be likely to give up, as well as seeing it as a chance to explore new recipes and experiment with plant-based ingredients such as beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, quinoa and nuts. See it as the perfect chance to find your new favourites!
Keep vegan snacks on hand for when you're on the go or feeling hungry between meals, which can keep you focused on your plant based lifestyle. Try fruits, nuts and veggie sticks with hummus as easy options.
● Read labels and know where your food has come from
Pay attention to food labels, especially in processed and packaged foods, to identify ‘hidden’ animal ingredients. Look for vegan alternatives and substitutes for common non-vegan products and ask the vegan community for easy ‘swaps’ if you’re missing a particular favourite.
● Stock up on staples
Keep your kitchen stocked with essential vegan staples like grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. These form the foundations of a plant based diet and will mean that cooking quick and easy meals, especially when it’s dark and cold in January, won’t seem like a hassle or a chore.
● Explore vegan alternatives
There are options such as plant-based milk, cheese, yogurt and meat alternatives that you can try to find products, tastes and textures you enjoy. Many supermarkets offer a variety of vegan options, and it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the treats and things you enjoy.
● Connect with others and enjoy the vegan community
Join online communities or local groups participating in Veganuary for support, advice and recipe ideas. Sharing your experiences and learning from others who are on a similar journey can make it feel less isolated and also will give you more chance of sticking with it for the whole month, as well as considering it as a more permanent lifestyle change.
● Communicate about Veganuary
Let friends, family, and colleagues know about your commitment to Veganuary so they can offer support and also consider offering plant based options for meals or places to eat out at.
● Stay positive
Focus on the positive aspects of your journey, such as the benefits to your health, the environment and animal welfare. Don't be too hard on yourself if you face challenges or ‘slip up’, and remember that; transitioning to a new way of eating takes time.
● Learn from the experience - good and bad!
Use Veganuary as an opportunity to learn more about your food choices, preferences as well as how a plant based diet makes you feel. Reflect on the experience and the positives and negatives before considering whether you want to continue with some or all aspects of a vegan lifestyle.