Vegan nutrition

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned vegan looking to enhance how you eat, the great news is you can meet all your nutrition needs eating vegan. Making nutritional improvements to your diet can be a journey that can be enjoyable and fulfilling. If you are making changes to your diet remember to be patient with yourself and go at your own pace. By focusing on the positive impacts on your health, the environment, and animal welfare, you can stay motivated and inspired to continue your vegan journey. Enjoy the process of discovering delicious, nutritious foods that nourish your body and know that each choice you make also contributes to a healthier, more compassionate world.

Variety is Key

A well-planned, well-rounded vegan diet is abundant in essential nutrients and provides a rich combination of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre. These nutrients support overall health, boosting your immune system, improving digestion, and promoting healthy outcomes. Find the balance on your plate every day by including a variety of foods providing protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats (macronutrients) in appropriate proportions and stay focussed on your vitamins and minerals intake (micronutrients). Specific dietary requirements are personal and will vary based on factors such as age, sex, activity level, and overall health.

Fresh is Best

Overall, eating fresh is best although it’s not aways practical to prep from fresh. A great alternative is to use tinned, refrigerated and frozen fruit and vegetables that will make for easier mealtimes. With practice you’ll become familiar with what to buy and how to prep and cook your favourite dishes. It might be easier than you think!

 

Tips for a Balanced Vegan Diet

Diversify Your Plate

To ensure you're getting all the essential nutrients, it’s a good idea to include a variety of foods in your diet. Legumes, grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds each offer unique nutritional benefits. Experiment with different cuisines and recipes to keep your meals exciting and diverse. 

Supplements

Certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids will often need some more specific attention when living vegan (Vit B12 especially). You may consider taking supplements or choosing fortified foods to meet your nutritional needs.

Plan Your Meals

Planning your meals can help you maintain a balanced diet and avoid the temptation of convenient but less nutritious options. If it’s possible for you, batch cooking and prepping ingredients in advance can save time and ensure you always have healthy meals ready to go.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is crucial for overall health. Drinking water, and incorporating hydrating foods like cucumbers, oranges, and melons, can help you stay energised and support your body's functions.

The nutrition information on our website acts as a guide only and is not intended to replace any medical or specialist health advice. Heathy outcomes are personal and individual. If you have specific dietary concerns or conditions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice.

Latest nutrition articles

Image of some golden liquid filled capsules
4 MIN READ

What every vegan should know about B12

Very low B12 intakes can cause anaemia and nervous system damage. The only reliable vegan sources of B12 are supplements containing B12 and foods fortified with B12.
Read more
Image of green and yellow bundles of uncooked fresh spaghetti
2 MIN READ

Carbs are not the enemy

It is a huge mistake to label all carbs as BAD. Of course eating donuts and potato chips all day is not good, but this shouldn't be equated with eating broccoli and sweet potatoes.
Read more
2 MIN READ

Nutrients in a vegan diet

If you are thinking about becoming vegan you may be asking yourself "Will I get the nutrients I need from a vegan diet?". Our nutrition writer Georgia Bamber sets your mind at ease.
Read more
1 MIN READ

Where do you get your protein?

Where do you get your protein? This is the big question that vegans will hear many, many times, but also a question that those new to veganism sometimes worry about and aren't quite sure they know the answer to.
Read more
2 MIN READ

Veganism and pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time when it is important to be as healthy as possible, and when information about health can be both contradictory and confusing. A balanced, whole foods, plant based (vegan) diet is demonstrably a great choice for you and your growing baby.
Read more
Vegan Australia is an animal rights organisation that campaigns nationally for veganism. 
Sign up for our newsletter

Newsletter Sign Up

Name(Required)
Privacy(Required)
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram