Cindy Chwa

What inspired you to go vegan?

CC:  My path towards the exploration of veganism was quite rocky, only because I embarked upon this lifestyle for weight loss. Slowly, my inspiration grew into something more meaningful, after my goal weight had been reached and my curiosity and interest for a more conscientious pull emerged. I watched Forks Over Knives and Cowspiracy, then switched over to Youtube to discover a magical world of vegan creators who blessed the Internet with their “What I Eat In a Day” videos. The beauty of veganism opened up to me, and I began to draw love and enthusiasm from this community that I am extremely proud to be a part of. Social media has played a major aspect in my vegan journey, and being able to freely express our opinions on food, lifestyle, culture, and problems has enriched my personal quality of life, as well as positively influenced those around me.

What are some of your favorite vegan restaurants?

CC:  My go-to for a basic and healthy meal is Real Food Daily, but of course, do not forget to try their apple cobbler with coconut based ice cream! If I’m ever craving Mexican food, I’ll head straight to Gracias Madre and order a plate of flautas and tacos. When I’m simply wanting a hearty and filling burger, Seabirds Kitchen has the best “Beets Me Burger”, which is probably one of the best burgers I’ve ever had in a long, long time. But lastly, Pressed Juicery of course, with their to-die-for healthy freezes (basically frozen yogurt), all sweetened by dates.

What are your favorite vegan dishes to make?

What are common misconceptions about being vegan?

CC:  The number one question I get as a college student (whose surrounding is 95% non-vegan) is, “What do you even eat?” Many think all we consume is an abundance of vegetables, particularly lettuce and celery. Not true! There’s never a day when I’m craving a non-vegan food item, because I know that there’s a veganized version of it somewhere, maybe at a nearby Whole Foods? Plus, you’ll probably never see me order a salad, because firstly it’s always overpriced and I’m almost never full from eating a plate of it! The second one is, “Where do you get your protein?” when ironically, plants do have protein. Vegetables are protein! Plus, I naturally consume beans on a daily basis, so there we go!

What do you find is the worst part about being vegan?

CC: The stigma around the concept of veganism. There are many people who judge me when I mention that I am a vegan. It’s difficult living in a society where this lifestyle is constantly ridiculed and considered as “extreme”, when in reality, they are simply unaware of the truth. Additionally, the stereotype that all vegans are skinny or fit, is one that irritates me because I personally am no where near skinny, and therefore it is difficult for me to prove through experience that veganism is great for weight loss, though it is for many people.

What is the best part about being vegan?

CC:  The best part is knowing in the back of my mind that I am living a life free of guilt. Once I made the connection between the source of food and what was on my plate, I began to see the world in a different light. The human body is a machine, made for us to nurture and protect. As veganism is implemented into our lifestyles and the process of detoxing all animal hormones is complete, our health is elevated to an entirely wholesome level that any non-vegan on a paleo or gluten free diet will never achieve.

What advice to you have for people who want to become vegan?

CC: My advice is to start slow. Begin to discover the plethora of ways one can consume a non-vegan snack, dish, or dessert, and not revert back to those with animal products. My hardest was to let go was ice cream, but once I discovered So Delicious’ cashew milk ice cream, and made countless trips to Yoga-urt, an all vegan almond milk based frozen yogurt store in Glendale, I never laid my eyes on a Haagen Daaz ever again.

How has your life changed since you’ve become vegan?

CC: The number of conversations I have with open-minded people at my university have been so valuable for myself, and for them. I have influenced so many of my friends to understand veganism, and why I pursue this path of love and nourishment. Now, it is never an issue when I want to eat out with my friends. They now always suggest going to an all-vegan restaurant because they truly enjoy Veggie Grill’s too-realistic Beyond Meat Burger, or they believe Whole Food’s vegan chocolate donuts are better than its animal product filled alternative. Additionally, my health and digestion have never been better.

What are the top 3 reasons to go vegan?

CC: First, compassion. There is never such thing as too much compassion in this world, since there are too many out there filled with hate and anger. Second, health. Personal care is extremely vital for longevity and prolonged happiness. Third, discovery. Before veganism, I didn’t have options. It was constantly a mix of rice, chicken, vegetables. Now, there is never a day when my bowl isn’t bursting with beautiful colors, orange from sweet potatoes, green from broccoli, red from tomatoes, yellow from corn.

What are your favorite vegan blogs/instagram/youtube channels?

CC:  My personal favorite Youtubers are Bonny Rebecca and my vegan parents, Mr and Mrs Vegan. As for recipes, I stick to Oh She Glows, Minimalist Baker, Hot For Food, and Deliciously Ella. On Instagram, I’m in love with Trish (@plantsandbalance), Rachel (@earthlingdoll), and obviously @thatveganlifedoe 😉

Do you have a blog, instagram, or youtube channel?

CC: I’m @plantsized on Instagram, and I have a blog I don’t update as much (trying my best to get on with it!) – thewhiteaesthetic.wordpress.com