But there’s a lot more to the diet than just being a stricter form of vegetarianism.

Pictured recipe:Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado & Walnuts

What is the vegan diet?

What can vegans eat?

Strawberry Spinach Salad with Avocado & Walnuts

Generally speaking, vegans can eat the following foods:

What vegans can’t eat?

Here’s our full list ofsurprising foods you think are vegan but may not be.

Environmental impact of a vegan diet

Some choose to go vegan for environmental reasons.

Peanut Butter Protein Overnight Oats

So, is the vegan diet better for the environment?

The research is mixed but lots of experts think eating more plants would have a benefit to the environment.

For a 100-calorie portion of beef, 700 calories of feed are required.

Vegan Grain Bowl

Learn more:Is a Vegan Diet Good for the Planet?

Is it cheaper to eat a vegan diet?

There may be a significant economic benefit if you eat a vegan diet.

Tofu & Snow Pea Stir-Fry with Peanut Sauce

But you wouldn’t necessarily see huge savings at the grocery checkout.

Being smart with your plant-based purchases can help.

You don’t need fancy products to be a vegan.

Making a list and planning in advance to minimize impulse purchases and keep costs down.

Is it actually healthy?

For many, going vegan is a way to simply eat healthier.

Don’t forget to hydrate with a glass of nondairy milk or calcium-fortified juice.

You’ll get some fiber from the fruit and protein from the nut butter.

Lunch

Turkey sandwiches on white bread with mayo are overrated.

Afternoon snack

Who needs the vending machine when you’ve made your owntrail mix?

Toss together an assortment of your favorite nuts, dried fruits and flaked coconut.

you’re able to easily whip together astir-fryat home and be confident your dish is entirely vegan.

For some extra substance, add a side of brown rice or soba noodles.

Dessert

Make a large batch ofchiapudding using coconut milk and your preferred sweetener.

Top with fresh berries and mint.

Chia seeds are full of healthy omega-3 fats and protein.

This would also make a great breakfast!

With planning, it’s possible to eat a healthy and nutritionally-sound vegan diet.

There also may be environmental and money-saving benefits.

If you’re considering switching to a vegan diet, check out our vegantipspage.