In her journey toward a more ethical and compassionate lifestyle, her path to veganism began with a strong commitment to ethical living and a lifelong love for animals. Starting as a vegetarian at a young age, she eventually transitioned to veganism to deepen her dedication to compassion. When she was later diagnosed with celiac disease, she embraced a gluten-free diet as well, finding that it not only improved her health but also brought new depth and meaning to her journey.
Previously featured on our website in the article “Embracing Compassion and Awareness: My Journey from Vegetarianism to Veganism on Long Island,” she shared her insights on shifting from vegetarianism to veganism. Today, we’re thrilled to revisit her inspiring story and hear about her continued commitment to a meatless lifestyle and the personal growth that has followed since.
Reflecting on Your Continued Journey
Fact: We’re out here thriving on plants! 🌱💪 ��
Since we last spoke, my journey has evolved even more. I have grown my Instagram page, Kerri The Vegan, significantly and created an ebook, ‘Seasonal Vegan Cookbook: Comfort Foods’. I also now have an online store where I post merch for sale! I even have a second instagram page, Kerri The Vegan Too where I post laughs, tips an lifestyle info.
I met a person through one of the Instagram groups I’m part of and we ended up becoming very close friends! She has helped me with my ebook and merch line. The two of us together as vegans are trying to make a bigger impact.
Navigating Nutrition and Health
When someone asks me for the 100th time where I get my protein… 😂 Guess what, veggies pack a punch!
Many readers are interested in the nutritional aspects of veganism/vegetarianism. Could you discuss some key nutrients and plant-based foods that contribute to a balanced diet?
A balanced vegan or vegetarian diet can provide essential nutrients like protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, omega-3s, and vitamin D through a range of plant-based sources. Protein from beans, lentils, tofu, and chickpeas; iron from leafy greens, legumes, and pumpkin seeds (boosted by vitamin C-rich foods for better absorption); and calcium from almonds, chia seeds, and fortified milks support overall wellness.
Adding fortified foods or a supplement for vitamin B12, along with omega-3s from chia, flax, and walnuts, and vitamin D from fortified options or sunlight, helps create a nutrient-rich diet that supports energy, bone health, and vitality.
While I am already vegan and gluten free, I also have allergies to dairy, eggs, and gluten. However I recently discovered that I’m iron deficient so while working with my doctor we were able to improve my levels through a supplement.
Inspiring Others Through Challenges
With my growing instagram pages, I receive backlash from some viewers (aka non-vegans). However, all I can do is stay true to myself, my mission with my page, and keep educating and empowering others to be vegan while also showing them how to make yummy foods.
I stay motivated by remembering why I truly became vegan in the first place. Ethical reasons. The meat and dairy industry is an absolute horror and nightmare. Not only do millions of animals get abused and slaughtered but it’s also not healthy to be indulging in a lifestyle like that
Ethical and Environmental Impact
Living vegan isn’t just about the food—it’s about reducing our impact on the planet too 🌍💚
The ethical and environmental aspects of a meatless lifestyle are powerful motivators. How do these considerations influence your choices, and what impact do you hope to make?
The ethical and environmental benefits of a meatless lifestyle are huge motivators for me.
Choosing plant-based foods is a way to support animal welfare and minimize environmental impact, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water usage tied to meat production. I hope to inspire others by showing that conscious food choices can make a difference in animal lives and environmental health.
Small shifts in diet can collectively lead to a significant positive impact, and being part of that change fuels my passion for living and promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Diverse Culinary Adventures
When people ask, ‘But what do you even eat?’ as I’m about to devour chips, Gus and salsa… 😂 🌱
Since our last interview I think I have definitely stepped up my game. I try to incorporate what is in season and post what viewers want to see such as trending items and what I think they would enjoy.
I conduct polls and ask questions on my Instagram stories asking people what they want me to make. If they suggest something I will make it! I try to stay with what is trending plus what the basics and favorites are.
Empowering Lifestyle Choices
I recently discovered Earth Harbor, it’s a cruelty free skincare line that I love. I use everything from face washes to moisturizers. Otherwise, I ensure all clothing is cruelty free and not make of animal products.
Advocacy and Education
Let’s make this a community where we can laugh, learn, and thrive together!
Advocacy plays a crucial role in the meatless movement. How do you educate others about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, and what advice do you have for effective communication?
I definitely think my platform on Instagram helps with educating others about the benefits of this lifestyle.
On my page, Kerri The Vegan, I post only recipes and foods that I made showing viewers how easy it is to cook plant-based, vegan, and gluten free. On my page Kerri The Vegan Too, I give tips and tricks about being vegan and gluten free to educate while also incorporating some humor. This is through reels, memes and even just posting some of my favorite things.
Balancing Passion and Compassion
When you go to a family dinner and spend half the night explaining what being vegan means… again 😂
Pursuing a vegan/vegetarian lifestyle can be empowering, but it can also be challenging in social settings. How do you navigate eating out or sharing meals with friends while staying true to your values?
One thing I always do is research a menu before going somewhere whether it’s with family or friends. I look to see if there are any vegan & gluten free options. Ideally, I’d love to visit a place with multiple options but I understand some people don’t follow this lifestyle so I try to be as accommodating as possible.
Meatless Movement in Popular Culture:
Veganism and vegetarianism have gained visibility in sports and entertainment. Are there any notable athletes, celebrities, or cultural figures who have embraced this lifestyle that you admire?
Currently I follow Joaquin Phoenix and Keanu Reeves mostly. Known for their commitment to animal rights and environmental causes, they been long-time vegans and actively use their platforms to advocate for plant-based living.
I was following Lizzo quite frequently as she was living a vegan lifestyle, however, Lizzo recently stepped back from veganism after four years, adding animal proteins for ‘health reasons’ like improved energy and mental clarity, especially after trying new foods on a trip to Japan.
As someone who values vegan principles, it’s disappointing to see her move away from a plant-based lifestyle, given her influence on promoting compassionate choices.
A Vision for the Future:
I see the future of the meatless movement evolving tremendously. People are becoming more aware of what happens behind closed doors in farming factories as well as their ingredients in foods. I am hoping my Instagram pages can help provide insight, even if I just am able to change one persons mind
Kerri | Vegan & Gluten-Free
Serving up vegan & gluten-free laughs, tips, and lifestyle inspo 🌱
all images courtesy of Kerri | Vegan & Gluten-Free
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