By Diara Fowler |Staff Writer|
CSUSB is one of many campuses that caters to those who are vegan/vegetarians.There are many beneficial factors within the lifestyle.
For starters, vegans and vegetarians have a lot in common.
According to the Vegetarian Resource Group (vrg.org), “a vegetarian cuts all forms of meat, poultry and seafood from their diet; A vegan not only cuts those from their diet, but they also go to the extremes of eliminating all animal products from their diets.”
Some vegans also avoid using any common household products that are made or even tested on animals.
Vegans and vegetarians avoid foods made of animals or animal by-product, they substitute the missing nutrients with fruits, vegetables, greens, grains, nuts and seeds. Both also maintain a predominantly plant-based diet.
Nutrition and food science major, Esthefany Limon decided to become a vegetarian about six months ago.
“I began to notice a slight change in my weight from drinking green shakes frequently,” said Limon.
The plants, which fill in as a substitution, happen to be rich in protein, iron, calcium and many other vitamins and minerals that the body needs.
“I would take everything green in my fridge at the moment and throw it in the blender,”continued Limon. “Items like lettuce,spinach, cilantro, green apples and sometimes for flavor carrots or pineapples.”
On another note, those who do decide to become vegan or vegetarian may lack in certain vitamins the body needs.
“I began to feel irritable at first,” stated Limon. “I was used to eating fast food to now having to prepare healthier hand made meals.”
Supplements would come into play in this void. B12 is taken among many vegans and vegetarians. Lack of B12 causes anemia and nervous system damage.
Taking B12 at least once a day provides 10 micrograms and taking B12 weekly gives them 2000 micrograms.
Meal prepping within this community is highly recommended among trainers to the everyday student.
While on the beneficiary side, some bonuses of being vegan or vegetarian are that one is less likely to become obese, get heart disease or diabetes.
As more people are choosing to become vegans and vegetarians the Cal States and UC campuses are adding new options to their menus for those who pursue this lifestyle.
Our very own Commons offers dishes such as pilau rice, Mediterranean greens, pita chips and hummus. While our student stores also have their own alternative food choices.
Fruits, crackers, trail mix, sunflower seeds, salads, Honest teas and Odwalla’s are available.
Students can choose vegetarian offerings at Pizza Hut, Subversions, Stir Fresh and vegan-friendly products at the Wow Cafe.
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