What is a characteristic of a vegan diet?

A vegan diet is defined by its exclusion of all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. This means that individuals who follow a vegan diet consume only plant-based foods, which encompass fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. The characteristic of containing only plant-based foods is foundational to veganism, as it aligns with the principles of ethical, environmental, and health-related motivations that many people adopt this dietary pattern for.

The emphasis on plant-based foods not only ensures adherence to the vegan philosophy but also generally leads to higher intakes of dietary fiber, vitamins, and phytochemicals that are prevalent in whole plant foods. This characteristic promotes a lifestyle that is largely focused on the consumption of unprocessed or minimally processed whole foods derived from plants, contributing to various health benefits.