When you think of November, you probably think about Thanksgiving, big dinners, cooler temperatures, and the start of the holiday season. However, the eleventh month on the calendar is also home to World Vegan Day (November 1) and World Vegan Month, a month designated to celebrate and learn more about veganism and its impact on the planet and our health.

You may already be eating a vegetarian diet or living the plant-based life, or you may be curious about how to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine. You may be wondering whether vegetarianism is right for you, or if you need special supplements if you’re a vegetarian. Regardless of where you land on the vegan, vegetarian, or veggie-curious spectrum, we can all benefit from more plant-based goodness in our lives.

Health benefits of veganism

Eating a plant-based diet can be beneficial to your health in a variety of ways, including a reduced risk of heart disease. A vegan or vegetarian diet often includes lots of fresh fruits and veggies, as well as protein from plant-based sources like nuts. You can get your calcium via leafy greens, oranges, and fortified foods.

Veganism may also aid in weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight, healthy blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol. If you’re curious about embarking on a vegetarian diet, bring it up with your healthcare professional or work with a dietitian to get started.

Veganism, vegetarianism, and the planet

As climate change continues to worsen, many people are opting to eat a plant-based diet to help reduce their carbon footprint. The meat industry has come under fire for its impact on water levels, deforestation, and contributing to global warming and greenhouse gas emissions. If you’re concerned about your meat consumption and want to make a change, going vegetarian or vegan, even a few times a week, can make an impact.

Easy ways to live a more plant-based life

You don’t have to completely overhaul your life to incorporate more plant-based meals and snacks into your day. Some simple ways to get started:

  • Sign up for a farm CSA box for a weekly or bi-weekly delivery of fresh fruits and veggies from your community.
  • Swap one or two meals a week for a meatless option, like Meatless Mondays.
  • Try plant-based alternatives to your favorite meals, like veggie burgers, zucchini noodles, and cauliflower wings.
  • Have dinner at vegetarian or vegan restaurants in your area to change up your dinner routine.
  • Swap your go-to turkey sandwich lunch for veggies and hummus with a green smoothie or a veggie wrap.

Veganism, vegetarianism, and supplementation

While you should be able to acquire an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals from a healthy, well-rounded vegan or vegetarian diet, you may also require extra support from a supplement. Many vegetarians take a multivitamin to ensure they’re getting everything their body needs. Epresat® Adult Multivitamin Liquid Supplement is a plant-based liquid vegetarian-friendly multivitamin with vitamins A, B6, D, and E. If you’re looking to maintain or supplement iron levels, Floradix® Iron + Herbs Liquid Herbal Supplement is a vegetarian liquid iron with 10 mg of iron from ferrous gluconate with B-vitamins per serving. Looking for a vegan option? Try Floravital® Iron + Herbs Liquid Herbal Supplement to support your busy, active, plant-based life.*