The term “plant-based” is a new one that is frequently misunderstood. Plant-based may appear to entail only eating a plant-based diet (such as a vegan diet), however this is not the case. While many people who follow a plant-based diet avoid eating animal products, this is not the same as being vegan.
A Plant-Based Diet
Let’s start with an overview of what a plant-based diet entails. This diet consists primarily of plant-based meals, which are usually whole and unprocessed. Plants will be the primary source of protein in your meals rather than meat. Lots of complete grains like rice and oats, potatoes, veggies and fruits, healthy fats, and dairy-free options like nut milk and tofu could be part of this diet.
Animal items, such as modest amounts of fish, poultry, or beef, can also be added. They are unlikely to be served at every meal, or even every day in many circumstances. It’s more like a flexitarian way of living, but with more whole, plant-based foods.
What a Vegan Diet Looks Like
Veganism is a way of life in which you commit to not eating animal products. This means that no meat, poultry, seafood, or milk, is consumed. It also contains insect byproducts such as honey and beeswax. Many people who consume a vegan diet also live a vegan lifestyle, which means they don’t wear fur coats, wool apparel, or leather handbags and shoes.
If you eat a lot of processed and packaged foods that aren’t created from plants, you can be vegan but not plant-based. Did you know that Oreo cookies, for example, are vegan? They don’t, however, come from plants.
The Difference Between Plant-Based and Vegan
The key distinction between these diets is the frequency with which you consume animal products, which ranges from rarely to never. This is a big decision that depends on a lot of things, such your health, personal preferences, moral commitments, and feelings about the meat and fish businesses.
Because the terms “plant-based” and “vegan” are not synonymous, it’s critical to understand the differences. A plant-based diet includes exclusively plant-based goods (such as vegetables, fruits, and nuts), but a vegan diet excludes all animal products.
People will find what they’re looking for more quickly while searching for recipes online or purchasing food in stores if everyone recognizes this critical distinction.
Choosing the Right Diet For Yourself
Consider why you’ve made this decision. Veganism is the ideal option if you care about animals and want to achieve your main goal. However, if your primary concern is your health, a plant-based diet may be the superior choice because it eliminates the majority of processed foods from your diet.
