What it means to be vegan

The concept of being vegetarian, maintaining a diet that does not include meat, is fairly well known today. A similar, but less known, diet is known as being vegan. Following a vegan diet and lifestyle is different than a vegetarian one because being vegan goes beyond just avoiding meat. Vegans do not consume or use any animal products.

Here on campus there is no group or club specifically dedicated to those who follow a vegan lifestyle but that doesn’t mean there aren’t many students who follow the practice. Sue Eledkawi, a Wright State senior, is one student who actively engages in a vegan diet and lifestyle, as well as in lifting and being physically fit. There are several reasons for being vegan; Eledkawi’s is concern for the environment.

“Personally, I became vegan initially for environmental reasons since it’s the most sustainable diet. Beef produces a lot of methane gas, which is a pollutant and requires 90 percent more water to grow than crops,” said Eledkawi.

After starting a vegan diet, Eledkawi began to work out more frequently and noticed some positive body changes. “My body was feeling lighter, I never feel tired after eating, I was becoming leaner and my skin was clearing up. My taste buds were slowly getting used to more natural sugar sources, so even sweets that are vegan became too sweet for me to eat. All of this, ultimately, was helping me get more in shape,” said Eledkawi.

For many people, transitioning into a vegan diet seems daunting and brings up many concerns about getting enough nutrients for their body. One common concern, especially for those who are trying to build muscle, is if they would get enough protein or not.

For vegans who follow a proper diet, protein is not an issue, even when building muscle. Becoming vegan made Eledkawi want to cook more and eat out less, letting her have more control on what nutrients she gets during meals and assuring she gets enough protein.

“Don’t believe that you won’t be able to get enough protein. That’s just a misconception and if you stick with it, you’ll see amazing results, both physically and mentally,” said Eledkawi when asked what advice she had for students looking to make the change.

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