The weird thing about being vegan

The weird thing about being vegan is everyone else’s reaction. After three years of veganism in Thailand, it’s been an interesting journey into a subculture that I’d otherwise be pretty ignorant about. Prior to our decision, we considered ourselves fairly balanced and healthy, but afterwards, we see ourselves as lifelong students always expanding our knowledge about nutrition, food, and diet.

We’ve been living in Lampang, a small city in Northern Thailand for about a year and a half now. And for veganism, it’s been surprisingly great. When we were in Rayong, on the Eastern Seaboard, closer to Bangkok, it was nonexistent and bleak, but thankfully, I was able to cook at home. These days, I don’t have the time, but there are many Thai vegetarian restaurants here, especially considering the town’s size and population.

In Chiang Mai, for instance, there are a lot of vegan options and restaurants. In fact, it’s considered the top vegan city in the world or one of the top depending on the source. Working and living a mere hour and a half away has been a real boon and pleasure for us.

But the strange thing about being vegan, I could not have anticipated, has been other people’s reactions towards us. For Thais, it’s not a big deal, most likely because it’s a lifestyle traditionally tied to Buddhism or Guanyin. Most vegetarian restaurants here are located near temples. And I use vegetarian and vegan interchangeably in Thailand because if a Thai restaurant is vegetarian, it’s vegan by default because Thai cooking does not include dairy products.

At work, however, where I work with both expats and Thais, it’s a little different. First of all, I don’t announce that I’m vegan. I’m very careful not to influence my students and whenever I’m asked why by the kids, I tell them for it’s for my health. I’m not on a crusade, although it would be easy to do so because I feel fairly educated, passionate, and I care about others. But, I bring my own meals and keep to myself.

When there are special events or holidays, I’m generally ignored. I don’t expect special treatment, but for this year’s Christmas staff party, I left because there was nothing for me to eat. We had just spent a long day ice skating with the kids and I was hungry. The past couple of times there was a special event, I was once offered a salad, which was nice, but also laughable, as in, there are so many things I can eat, so I passed to bring something that was more substantial. And the other time, the cook panicked and I said, it’s okay, don’t worry about me.

Now, Christmas party or not, I don’t care. I shamed the school into providing food for us because last year, it was a potluck, but this year, there was no time or energy for such things. The kicker though was in order to receive a gift from the raffle, you had to show up, and since I didn’t, well, let’s just say the Christmas spirit is dimly lit in some corners of the world.

I’m reminded of a couple of things. One, when we discovered that one of our students (this was at another school) was Muslim, so he couldn’t partake in the (ham and sausage) pizza party. He said never mind with a smile. And two, when a colleague from last year brought hummus to the party and that thoughtfulness touched my heart. I know, so dramatic, but no, I’m just a sensitive soul. Kindness counts.

You might think, “Why Lani, you should have brought your own food to share, and showed everyone how delicious vegan food can be”, to which I’d reply, “go take a flying leap”. (See: crusade and no time or energy)

Most folks are close-minded when it comes to food, me included. My husband made an astute observation, when it comes to meat, if you didn’t grow up with it, you’re less likely to try it. I was always squeamish about seafood, organ meats, and chicken feet. But let’s face it, it’s all about the sauce and seasonings because to eat meat plain is incredibly bland.

Recently, one of our longtime friends apologized for ordering seafood at a restaurant after he remembered we were vegan. Another one, when he’s with us, orders vegetarian. Both are sweet and conscientious, but it’s not necessary. We grew up eating meat and it’s all around us. Interestingly, one of the top reasons why vegans quit is due to the social pressure.

So in some ways, it’s easier for us to be vegan in Thailand where we’re surrounded by unfamiliar food and a language barrier. But if you think about it, much of our social interactions center around food. “Let’s have brunch, coffee, lunch, or dinner.” “See you at the party!” Even if you meet up for a spin around the museum or a walk in the park, it’s natural to then grab a bite to eat. Friends can feel put off by our diet, which is fascinating, as if we have a handicap, and what if we did? Sometimes, we consider telling folks that we’re vegan for religious reasons…

Because vegans receive a freight-load of hate and hostility. We’re the butt of many jokes. You’ll never see an article on “why I started smoking or drinking again”, but there are plenty of “why I quit veganism” stories running around vying for your attention. We’ve chosen to not include certain things in our diet and that makes us stupid and evil? Maybe it’s the guilt? Of course, there are vegans who are aggressive about it, but they appear to be a small faction. Trust me, there are fanatical meat-eaters, too.

Despite the challenges, they aren’t so for my husband and I. We’re used to being outsiders, left-handed, American expats, creatives who have learned to push through adversity, and quite frankly, are strengthened by it. I love being vegan, and I’m happy with my dynamic and robust relationship with food and my body.

FAQ

// Why do you eat fake meat? Like burgers?

We grew up in a culture that eats meat. It’s only natural to want or crave familiar foods from holidays or home-cooked meals.

And despite popular belief, these plant-based meats are not less healthier for you than the real thing because they are processed.

// Where do you get your protein?

It can be challenging to get everything you need and this applies to omnivores, as well. Protein is rarely a problem, but things like B12 or Omega 3s are. It requires a little research on alternatives and or taking supplements. It’s like any diet, really. Many women over the age of 50, for example, take calcium supplements.

// Don’t you think of veganism as an extreme diet?

Raising and feeding an animal, then cutting and cleaning for consumption might be considered extreme, but we’ve been raised to believe this is normal. You could look at veganism as an elimination diet. Many people choose to not eat certain foods. Is this normal?

// Why are you vegan?

For my health. In Thailand, meat and dairy are often not handled in sanitary ways. (and I suspect that this is a more worldwide phenomenon) Food poisoning is common here. But the longer I’m on the diet, the more I appreciate the other benefits, too.

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Do you know any vegans?