12 Tips for New Vegans Who Don’t Know WTF They’re Doing

1. Find some delicious vegan options near you.

Almost every city in the U.S. has incredible all-vegan restaurants or restaurants that can create fantastic vegan dishes. Find some near you!

2. Make a meal plan.

From budget-friendly recipes to easy microwaveable lunches, chooseveg.com is loaded with helpful info, including this seven-day meal plan.

3. Even chain restaurants have vegan options.

Don’t believe us? Check this out. And while you’re at it, here’s how to order a vegan pie at big pizza chains.

4. Download a vegan app.

From locating veg food near you to offering flavorful vegan recipes, these seven apps are must-haves for your smartphone.

5. Understand allergen warnings. “May contain” does not mean it isn’t vegan.

Under every ingredients list, common allergens are listed in bold. Keep in mind that if something says “may contain” milk or eggs, it doesn’t mean that it does contain them. This warning is for people with life-threatening allergies.

6. Veganize a few of your favorite meals.

There are plant-based versions of all your favorite foods. Click here for 11 easy swaps to make your favorite dish vegan.

7. You don’t have to know everything.

You may get a lot of questions from friends and family after your decision to become vegan. It’s OK if you don’t have all the answers.

8. Take a multivitamin.

While you can certainly get all the nutrients you need on a vegan diet, everyone should be taking a multivitamin, vegan or not.

9. Tons of foods are“accidentally” vegan.

Just because something isn’t labeled vegan or sounds like it isn’t, it never hurts to check the ingredients. Here are 17 popular foods that just happen to be vegan!

10. Eat enough calories.

If you often feel hungry, you’re probably not eating enough calories. Many people who ditch meat find they need to increase the amount of food they eat.

11. Find your favorite vegan alternatives.

From veggie sausages to plant-based mayo, vegan substitutes for meat and dairy abound. Find your favorites!

12. Focus on pragmatism over purity.

No one is perfect. Veganism isn’t about purity; it’s about living our lives in a way that avoids exploiting or harming animals and takes a stand for a kinder world.

Not vegan yet? Click here for meal ideas, savory recipes, and tips on making the switch.