How to Talk to Your Parents About Going Vegan

Posted by Talitha on March 10, 2023

It can be a bummer when you’re psyched about going vegan but your parents are a little iffy about letting you make the switch. “But where will you get your protein?!” We know, we know—it’s a parent’s job to worry.

But guess what! They don’t have to worry at all. Vegan meals can provide us with all the nutrients that we need, minus all the saturated fat, cholesterol, and other icky stuff found in animal flesh, eggs, and dairy foods—and minus the cruelty of eating murdered animals and their secretions.

It took a few years for my mom to understand why I went vegan, and I definitely received some annoying comments from aunts and uncles over the years. But I stuck to my values, and now my mom and brother have both stopped eating animals, too! I still get annoying comments every now and then from other family members, but I’m at least starting to influence curious little cousins who are taking notice and asking questions. 😊

So, if your parents seem hesitant, don’t give up. Here’s what to tell them about going vegan:

It’s Healthy

You’ll need the same amount of nutrients as a vegan as you did when you were still eating animals. Now, you’ll just find them in much healthier places.

Have your parents visit the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine’s website if they have any questions or want to learn how this choice can improve your health and the environment.

It’s Cheap

Another selling point is that vegan eating can be super-cheap. Your parents will probably be interested to know that it will likely cost less to feed you after you go vegan than it did when you were still eating animals. Win-win!

It’s Delicious

Show your parents that not only are you eating healthier now, your new diet is also delicious. After all, the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach.

It’s Important

As always, it’s important to keep in mind that it’s just hard for some people to understand why someone would go vegan, especially if they have no idea how horribly animals are treated. But you can help them learn. Get comfy, grab your fave vegan snack, and check out lifesaving documentaries. Once your parents see what happens to animals, they’ll be more likely to understand that you’re standing up against something that you know is wrong.

Ask them, Shouldn’t we do our part to live in a world where everyone is this happy and free? 💗

Something else we recommend—if your parents really can’t see things your way—is to stay strong. The important thing here is respect. Even though my mom didn’t understand my decision at first, she still respected my perspective and choices. We don’t necessarily have to understand something to be accepting of it. And that might be the place to start, until they understand it for themselves, too. Remember, it’s OK to be different, especially when your difference means that you’re saving lives! Don’t worry about what others have to say when you know you’re making a positive impact on animals, the Earth, and yourself. 😊

If you have any questions about talking to your parents about your going vegan, be sure to contact us at [email protected].