Hey everyone! Today, I want to share my thoughts on a fascinating video from Mark Lewis Fitness, where Mark dives into his year-long journey of living as a vegan. If you haven’t heard of Mark Lewis yet, he’s a fitness enthusiast and YouTuber who brings a mix of humor, honesty, and insightful content to his channel. In this video, he recounts his transition to a vegan lifestyle, the challenges he faced, and why he’s decided to stick with it.
Why Mark Decided to Go Vegan
A little over a year ago, Mark’s wife suggested they try going vegan. Initially, he was skeptical—especially after investing in a high-end meat smoker. But a cheeky comment from his wife about plant-based diets increasing libido by 54% (spoiler: it was a fib) convinced him to give it a shot. Fast forward a year, and Mark is still vegan. I love how candid he is about his initial reluctance and how he’s grown to embrace the lifestyle.
Switching to Veganism: Surprisingly Simple
Mark admits that the switch to veganism was surprisingly easy for him, thanks in large part to his wife, who was already on board and took charge of meal planning. I think having a supportive partner can make a huge difference in any lifestyle change. For Mark, the transition was seamless because his household was ready for it. His cupboards were stocked with vegan-friendly foods, and his kids were old enough to manage their own meals, making the switch less complicated.
For breakfast, Mark sticks to his usual routine—oats with banana and peanut butter. I tried this combo myself, and it’s both delicious and filling. He emphasizes that veganism isn’t about eating “vegan food” but rather about removing certain foods from your diet. It’s a mindset shift that makes the process less daunting.
Health Benefits: A Mixed Bag
When it comes to health, Mark’s take is refreshingly honest. He believes that being vegan doesn’t automatically make you healthier. Instead, it’s about making smart food choices, whether you’re vegan or not. I agree with him that the healthiest diet is one that’s balanced and varied. Mark takes a few supplements, like B12 and plant-based omega, to ensure he’s getting all the nutrients he needs. This is something I’ve considered adding to my routine as well, especially after hearing his experience.
Athletic Performance: No Major Changes
Mark’s athletic performance didn’t see any dramatic changes after going vegan, which was a bit surprising to him. He continues to improve in his fitness journey, but he attributes this to consistent training rather than his diet alone. I love how he keeps it real by saying that other factors like stress levels and sleep quality play a more significant role in performance. This resonates with me because I’ve noticed similar patterns in my own fitness journey.
Eating Out: Not as Hard as You Think
One of the biggest concerns people have about going vegan is eating out. Mark assures us that it’s not as difficult as it seems. With the rise of plant-based options in restaurants and fast-food chains, finding vegan-friendly meals is easier than ever. I’ve tried a few vegan burgers myself, and they’re surprisingly satisfying. Mark also mentions that being flexible and focusing on the company rather than the menu can make dining out more enjoyable.
Being a Dietary Minority: An Eye-Opener
Mark touches on the social aspect of being a vegan, noting that he’s now part of a dietary minority. This experience has given him a new perspective on how minorities are treated, albeit in a much less severe context. I think it’s fascinating how dietary choices can open your eyes to broader social issues. Mark’s approach is to not let others’ opinions affect him, and I admire his resilience.
Why Mark Is Sticking with Veganism
So, why is Mark sticking with veganism despite some of the downsides? For him, it’s about personal satisfaction, minimal inconvenience, and a newfound consistency in his beliefs about animal welfare. I love how he highlights the importance of aligning your actions with your values. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the little inconveniences are worth the bigger picture.
Mark concludes by saying he’s happy with his decision and doesn’t plan to make more vegan-specific videos unless something dramatic happens. I think his journey is a testament to the fact that lifestyle changes don’t have to be all-or-nothing. It’s about finding what works for you and sticking with it.
If you’re curious about veganism or just looking for some motivation to make a change in your diet, I highly recommend checking out Mark Lewis Fitness. His honest, humorous, and insightful take on veganism might just inspire you to try something new.