VEGAN OF THE MONTH: APRIL

By Leave a Comment

Caitlin Shoemaker 

Screen Shot 2016-04-03 at 11.27.56 PM

 What inspired you to go vegan?

C: I was actually raised vegetarian, but as I grew older and more involved in the Instagram community, I became very interested in vegan food and cooking. One day I decided to do more research into the lifestyle and found out about all of the health and ethical information as well – and I never looked back!

What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants?
 C:  I always make it a point to go to local vegan restaurants everywhere I travel! A few of my favorites would have to be Beyond Sushi in NYC, Great Sage in Ellicott City, Maryland, and Gracias Madre in LA!
What are your favorite vegan dishes to make?
 C: If you can’t tell from my Instagram feed…I kind of have a thing for banana ice cream and smoothie bowls, haha. But I also love to cook savory food as well! Chili-stuffed sweet potatoes and vegetable curries are also staples in my diet.
 What are common misconceptions about being vegan?
C: I think a lot of people think vegan food can be “boring” and of course, that vegans are nutrient deficient. I love proving these people wrong though! There is such a wide abundance of delicious fruits and vegetables that I never get bored with my food – and I’m pretty sure I get more nutrients in my breakfast than most people on the SAD (Standard American Diet) get in a day 😉
What do you find is the worst part about being vegan?
C:  I think it can be frustrating to know how awesome veganism is, and still have people judge you/not be open towards it. I always try to take the opportunity to spread the positive message though!
 What is the best part about being vegan?
C: Uhh….EVERYTHING! Honestly, going vegan was the best decision I’ve made in my life. I feel so vibrant, energetic, HAPPY, and I love how I am saving animals lives at the same time.
What advice to you have for people who want to become vegan?

C: It may sound kind of odd, but I think my advice would be to take it slow and keep it simple – there are a lot of subgroups and diets within the vegan community, and I think it can get a little overwhelming for people first transitioning to this lifestyle. You don’t have to have an elaborate smoothie bowl every morning or only eat raw vegetables, etc – just being vegan and not eating animal products is awesome. Then, if you’d like to be more creative or focus on your health, I say go for it 🙂 Also, definitely look around if you lack creativity in the kitchen – there are loads of healthy AND stupidly easy vegan recipes online!

How has your life changed since you’ve become vegan?
C: I think learning to practice nonviolence and compassion towards all beings, both animals and humans, has transformed me for the better as a person. I think being kind to all people is the best way to spread the message as well 🙂 Also, I eat a lot more bananas, sweet potatoes, and just carbs in general – and I’m loving every second of it.
What are the top 3 reasons to go vegan?
C: For the ANIMALS, for your HEALTH, and for the PLANET <3
What are your favorite vegan blogs/instagram/youtube channels?
C: I actually follow a lot (aka embarrassingly large amount) of vegan people online! My favorite accounts at the moment would probably be @thrivingonplants and @earthlytaste on Instagram, and High Carb Hannah and Tess Begg on Youtube!
Do you have a blog, instagram, or youtube channel?

C: Yes, all three! My blog can be found at bit.ly/frommybowl, my instagram is @frommybowl, and my Youtube channel can be found here  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0cxMY7jZ_kiE2bvykJffZA. Hit me up, I’m always looking to make new friends 🙂

Filed Under:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *