30 Day Vegan Challenge

I always considered myself to be a health-conscious kind of guy. Prior to embarking on a 30 Day Vegan Challenge, I had not eaten red meat for 10 years and I went to the gym…sometimes. But after seeing the “What The Health” a documentary currently available on Netflix, I decided to be brave and take it a step further by transitioning into only eating vegan meals. Last December, I made my own salads—including greens, dressing, and a starch—but I still would have small portions of chicken and fish. When I went on vacation in December, I knew I wasn’t ready to start eating vegan. When I came back though, I gave myself no excuses and read (a lot) about what I would need to keep my body properly functioning. With practice, I meal prepped and excitedly began my journey.

I didn’t know where to start with my vegan diet, so I browsed the web a ton for information. Vegangela and YupItsVegan had some of my favorite meals. I currently live in Boston and there aren’t too many vegan restaurants available, but there are plenty with vegan options on the menu. When I travel back to Brooklyn, the options are definitely there (Zen Vegetarian House in Flatbush is a must-visit).

When it came to cooking at home, coconut curry lentil soup was my favorite thing to make. Sticky Sesame Cauliflower and Creamy Kale Cashew Stew were my quick, but delicious go-tos. To make the dishes more filling, I added beans and peas. Don’t hesitate to do the same! You can even add your own seasonings to give the meals the flavor you want.

Doing this vegan challenge and eating with friends who were not was the hardest part to me. For example, I went out to dinner with a friend to celebrate his 30th birthday and I had to ask if there were vegan options on the menu. Thankfully, there was one. That was usually the case though, one option, not many. I was very vocal with my friends and family about my transition into veganism; to my surprise, everyone was incredibly supportive! People told how cool it has been to see me post my meals on social media during the vegan challenge. Some followers have even asked for some tips on switching over to a plant-based diet!

Being vegan takes work, so please do your research before starting your own vegan challenge! You have to plan your meals in advance and you read ingredient lists on the back of labels more frequently. I also learned that what you consume really impacts your body.  I can say that I feel way more energetic, positive, and active. I’d also suggest that you share your journey with those around you. You’d be surprised at how supportive people are and how many people are eating plant-based diets themselves! Are you trying to include more plant-based foods in your diet? Comment below with your favorite vegan meals you’ve tried!

About Aaron: Aaron Spencer is from Brooklyn, NY and currently works in Boston as a recruiter for teachers. He is currently earning his Master of Science in Program and Project Management at Brandeis. He wants to apply his education and experience to build his own school in his hometown. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, cooking, reading, staying active, and staying an avid New York sports fan.