CELEBRITY VEGAN CULTURE

June 4, 2018

At this point, I’m sure we’ve all seen (at least in part) the fierceness of Beyoncé’s performance at Coachella. Like many, I watched her slay through song and dance without missing a beat. Like basically any Beyonce experience the performance gave me life and I quickly found myself researching all she did to bring us the magnificence of ‘Beychella’.

First and foremost I must give props to the genius of the performance. The nod to black culture was affirming to us Wakandaians and an invitation for others to learn the beautiful richness of our diaspora. Once I was able to settle my soul I was then taken away by the sustained energy she had a song, dance, and not missing a beat. Paired with a rigorous practice schedule the Queen B took on a new way of eating; veganism.

My heart soared and fell simultaneously. I have been thinking about becoming vegan for a while and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to give it a try. I also love food that is usually cream or sugar filled and have a southern family that loved a ‘little bit of chicken fried’.

As research began, I found that she started her vegan journey 44 days before the show. She and celeb trainer Marco Borges created the daily Nutrition program based on his book The 22 Day Revolution. After looking into the cost of this program (about $600 for 3 prepared meals a day for 22 days) I decided I had to do this quest on my own. Because while I strive to slay the Bey way the way I finance work…. nuff said. So if you are interested in trying this new lifestyle or a simple reset to your equivalent of Beychella (summer and wedding season is quickly approaching) check out these fun facts to veganism as you start your journey.

Why 22 Days?

It takes 21 days to form a habit. After this 22 day challenge, you might reunite with your favorite burger, but it’s not all lost. Since you will have done veganism for a while you will likely have some healthier habits stick with you.

Isn’t being Vegan Expensive?

Yes… and no. As with anything if you want to go all out veganism can be expensive. It also can be very affordable. Simple fruits, veggies, and some staples of beans, nutritional yeast, and rice are all you need. This is the opportunity to get creative! Check it this video for some inspiration, vegan meal prep for $30 a week. I would also bookmark Sweet Potato Soul, she has amazing accessible recipes and tips.

Won’t my body lack nutrients?

Not if you’re smart about ensuring you get what you need! When you venture into vegan it is essential that you get your vitamins, especially B12. B12 is responsible for ensuring your iron levels are good and energy. You can take a B12 vitamin or just ensure you’re getting the nutrient through fortified foods such as nutritional yeast, plant-based milk, soy products or fortified cereals.)

Doesn’t it take forever to prepare a vegan meal?

I’m not gonna lie, being vegan does take some preparation and planning. But this isn’t wholly a bad thing. A lot of people prep the major players (such as rice and beans and other similar staples) over the weekend. This gives you the opportunity to take time to put care and mindfulness into what you’re preparing for the week. Also, I find meal prepping helps me make more informed food decisions and reduce impulse eating when I’m out. It’s also a great way to sneak another healthy habit into your life; time-management and organization.

So far I’ve been on the vegan train for the past two weeks. While I think I’ll be “vegan-Ish” (someone who occasionally eats non-vegan food)when it’s all said and done, I will say I am enjoying this experience. My body feels healthier, I can taste flavors more fully, and I have more energy (that might be thanks to the B12). I’ve committed to two more weeks of this lifestyle and am toying with making it a forever thing.

What’s your experience with veganism? Any tips for converts? Let us know below!

MEDIA

CELEBRITY VEGAN CULTURE