Vegan Facts, Myths, And Stereotypes Explained

Top 5 Vegan Myths, Debunked

Vegans Suffer From Malnutrition

A lot of the time, people presume that vegan diets that are low in protein can cause malnutrition. In reality, so long as the vegan diet is balanced and contains a variety of vitamins & minerals (through supplements or meat substitutes), there is no reason for it to cause malnutrition.

We tend to fixate on protein these days, making it seem the most important element of our diets. Whilst it is indeed super important, it’s worth saying that we generally need less protein than we think we do. And besides, we can get protein from so many sources than just animal-based products; oats, whole grains, vegan protein powders, nuts, and seeds all contain protein and can be incorporated into a healthy, balanced diet. Plus - if plant-based protein is good enough for Djokovic, Venus Williams, and David Haye, it’s good enough for us.

Years of TV adverts showcasing happy kids drinking glasses of milk have embedded the idea that dairy = calcium. Believe it or not, you can get all the calcium you need through plants. Leafy greens, figs, sweet potatoes, and fortified plant-based milks all offer healthy, animal-free sources of the mineral, helping you to keep your bones strong.

To make sure you're doubly covered, a vegan calcium supplement can be a great shout too:

Vegan Food Is Expensive

A common misconception about veganism is that it can be expensive to eat a diet that's entirely plant-based. In reality, you can actually save money buying vegan alternatives with tinned goods like chickpeas or pulses and grains.

Worried about going vegan without breaking the bank? Check out our blog below for tips and advice:

Vegan Diets Are Restrictive

Too often, veganism is associated with ‘cutting back’, ‘restricting’, or ‘limiting’. The realities of a plant-based diet, however, couldn’t be further away from this! When you switch out animal products, you start to discover how much goodness the plant-world has to offer.

There are so many weird and wonderful plant-based ingredients that making meals soon becomes an adventure rather than a routine. And this increased diversity isn’t just exciting for food-lovers, but actually brings a number of health benefits; recent studies have established a clear link between the broader diets of human herbivores and better gut health, amongst a plethora of other health benefits.

Click here to shop our vegan foods, snacks, and drinks.

Vegans Have A Weakened Immune System

Contrary to popular belief, vegans actually often have a stronger immune system due to their increased intake of vitamins, mineral, antioxidants, and ant-inflammatory compounds which all come from plant-based foods.

That being said, vegans who eat overly processed foods without vitamins or added benefits too often can suffer from a weakened immune system. (1)

if you're going vegan and are worried about weakening your immune system, it's important to ensure your intake of vitamins & minerals is high. Check out the vitamins and minerals we have available to supplement your plant-based diet here.

Veganism Is A Privilege

Many think that it’s really difficult to go vegan, but it’s actually surprisingly easy. All you need is a little more awareness when food shopping, and a playful attitude when choosing recipes. If dropping animal products all of a sudden isn’t for you, don’t do it. We’d recommend gradually reducing your meat and dairy intake as you up your plant provisions. Taking a ‘vegan-ish’ approach allows you to find your own way to a healthier, more sustainable diet without compromising your enjoyment of food.

Top 5 Vegan Stereotypes, Debunked

Aside from the common myths surrounding veganism, there is also a lot of projected negativity which stereotypes vegans and their diet. We're here to debunk these claims and inform you of the realities of going plant-based.

Vegans Are Always Preaching About Veganism

As the popularity of veganism began to rise, the notion that vegans were overly 'preachy' manifested itself into our society. While we can speak for everyone who practices a plant-based diet, it's clear that this is a wide generalisation, perhaps fueled by those who don't want to accept veganism as a nutritionally balanced diet.

If you're struggling with a vegan who you appears to be preaching to you, take a step back and try to look at their argument from a neutral position. It's always okay to explain that veganism isn't for you, but remember to be respectful of other people & their food philosophy.

Vegans Think They Are Superior

Sadly, the topic of veganism often causes offence, even when it isn't intended. Arguably the reason so many people presume vegans have a superiority complex is perhaps because of the altruistic nature of veganism.

Veganism Causes Brain Fog

Vegan diets do not typically cause brain fog or any mental-health issues. That being said, vegans do need to monitor specific nutrients including DHA and B12 to supplement their brain. (2)