VEGAN OF THE MONTH: MARCH

Jeanette

What inspired you to go vegan?

The reason why I even considered going vegetarian is totally shallow and vapid one. But I’m so grateful that it happened no matter the reason! My college boyfriend dumped me because I had gained some weight, and I was absolutely devastated. I asked my sister (aka Mrs. Vegan) what I should do. She told me “why not go vegetarian and focus on that… it will take your mind off of him, and you will lose weight!” And I did it! We wound up getting back together. Then I lost all the weight, and I wound up dumping him! 🙂

About three years later I went 100% vegan after watching “Forks Over Knives.” The documentary made such a logical argument for the health benefits of a 100% plant-based diet, it was difficult to ignore.

Short Answer: My sister + “Forks Over Knives”

What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants?

Real Food Daily – The basic bowls at RFD are pretty much the best thing you can eat. They offer different mixes of rice, veggies, beans and greens every day, so it’s impossible to get bored. And if you are trying to lose or maintain your weight, they use no added oils in the basic bowl, so it’s totally WSLF (whole starch low fat).

Gracias Madres – The patio at Gracias Madre is the most fabulous place on the planet. Well, at least when I’m there it feels that way! I usually get the uno bowl or just a bunch of sides and of course a chocolate beer. That’s right… vegan chocolate beer! Obsessed!

Fred & Ricky’s – This one isn’t based in LA, but in my hometown St. Louis, Missouri. Everything at Fred & Ricky’s is vegan and mostly oil-free. It has to be the healthiest place to eat in the Midwest. They opened not too long ago and did not exist at all when I lived there.The fact that a plant-based, health-focused restaurant is thriving in the land of quarter pounder cheeseburgers means that plant-based eating is truly going mainstream.

What are your favorite vegan dishes to make?

If you watch my YouTube channel, you will know that I am the queen of the microwave. I specialize in preparing frozen veggies and beans with rice in my rice cooker. Frozen fruits and veggies are so convenient since they never go bad and are frozen at the height of their ripeness and nutrient level.

Short answer: My favorite ones are the easiest to make that take absolutely no effort 🙂

What are common misconceptions about being vegan?

That we are pretentious hipsters who thinks we are better than everyone.

What do you find is the worst part about being vegan?

People think you are judging them, especially when they eat meat and dairy in front of you. Part of me does judge them, and the other part of me remembers that I used to eat meat and dairy, too. I was raised to believe that God put animals on the planet to serve man. It’s a religious and cultural thing, so you cannot knock someone because of how they were raised. What you can do is live the proof and spread the truth that the vegan diet is the healthiest, most ethical way to live.

What is the best part about being vegan?

The amazing community!!! I have struggled throughout my life to find people with whom I truly connect. It wasn’t until I moved to LA and met all these amazing vegans that I can say I now have more amazing friends than I ever imagined. I feel so blessed!

What advice to you have for people who want to become vegan?

There are some “overnight vegans” but most have to take it slow. Go vegan at your own pace. Even if it’s a snail-like process, embrace it for what it is. Completely overhauling your diet can be stressful and scary. Take it one meal at a time.

How has your life changed since you’ve become vegan?

I’m happier, healthier and more grateful than ever. Veganism made me less depressed and anxious. More often than not I feel calm, happy and like I’m truly approaching self-actualization. It makes me think twice about every dollar I spend. I consider how that purchase either positively or negatively impacts the planet.

What are the top 3 reasons to go vegan?

For your health, for the planet and, of course, for the animals.

What are your favorite vegan blogs/instagram/youtube channels?

Of course my sister & brother-in-law Mr & Mrs Vegan, Bonny Rebecca, High Carb Hannah, Stella Rae, Supreme Banana, Koi Fresco, Claire Michelle, Rawvana, Apples & Amandas, Sweet Simple Vegan, Jon Venus, Happy Healthy Vegan… I mean my list could go on for days really! Oh and some will get mad at me for this, but I think Vegan Cheetah is really talented at what he does, too.

Do you have a blog, instagram, or youtube channel?

Yes! You can follow me at @basicveganbitch on Tumblr, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. My New Year’s resolution is to post more YouTube videos this year, so my goal is to post at least 3-4 videos a month if not more. My videos are about my weight loss journey, healthy lifestyle and everything WSLF.

ThatVeganLifeDoe

Keep calm and vegan on

VEGAN OF THE MONTH: MARCH

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