Qatar- The Pressures of Diet Labelling

(MENAFN- Gulf Times) There are several pressures we face when changing our lives in ways that are perceived as ‘drastic' or even ‘extreme' to others who do not share your mind-set. The pressure of being labelled under a certain diet can turn a positive opportunity into a somewhat negative, pit-of-your-stomach feeling. Declaring yourself as ‘Vegan' is one thing —but living up to what society thinks you should be, do, say, or consume is another. You may feel trapped in a commitment that was ultimately your own dietary choice. You may feel you have to act in a certain way, or avoid certain things, for fear of not living up to what a ‘Vegan' would do.
In my many columns here on the Holistic and Wellness page, I've explained about the benefits of Veganism. I've explained about the ways in which you can consume healthy vegan food to better your life. I've debated the arguments surrounding the negative aspects of a plant-based diet, such as potential deficiency in vitamins or minerals such as amino acids (which are typically found in meat).
I've explained, I've analysed, I've tried, and I have tested. My vegan journey was a process that was ultimately life-changing, and a learning process but let's be clear: when making the switch to veganism, there is no ‘one-size-fits-all' approach, nor is there a certainty or guarantee of something working the way in which you hope or intend it will.
Instead, all we must do is educate ourselves, stay informed, and remain true to our core values surrounding our diet, health, and more. Yes, it's ok to break free from a sudden commitment to Veganism if it's not working for you at the moment. Before you listen to anyone (myself included), you must listen to your body. If your body isn't, or was not ready from the start to make a sudden switch — it will not achieve anything, and will likely lead to you suffering mentally, if not physically.
In an era dominated by smartphones and gadgets, we often underestimate the true intelligence and ability of our own body. Not only does it know us better than anything else (given that it is us) but our bodies are used to routine, and often it craves it. Any sudden change isn't going to be welcomed as ‘good news' by our bodies, and this is why I cannot stress enough on the importance of bettering our lives in a way in which our body is physically ready for, and our brains are mentally ready for too. We need to eliminate expectations when it comes to ‘how a vegan should be.' Of course, there are hundreds of common traits that vegans share as a result of consuming a similar plant-based diet, but we are not defined by society's perception of ‘a vegan'. I have travelled across the globe and met people from all areas of life, some who are vegan and are twice my size. Others, will never consume the fresh, organic ingredients that I include in my daily diet, yet still they consume food that is technically vegan. What works for us has to remain the priority.
Share your vegan meals on social media, be proud you are working towards a healthier diet that will in turn help save the planet, tell your friends when you feel more energised. But remember that any decision involving our health and diet is personal to yourself only, and what works for you will not work for everyone. In the rush to declaring yourself as a Vegan, pause to make sure your body is as up to speed as your head is. If it's not? Take it slow. One step at a time. It's a journey, not a destination. But it's your journey.


* The author is an expert in vegan wellbeing and health.Instagram handle: @Ghanim92

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