Our Technical and Quality Manager, Aleksandra Wielgopolanin loves a challenge. From reading a book a week for a year to training for an ultra-marathon, Aleks always has a goal to work towards. But underpinning all her efforts is her choice to follow a vegan diet.
Aleks’ veganism may have started as a post-COVID experiment she set herself as part of her ‘year of challenges’ in 2021. But it has become an important and enjoyable lifestyle choice that she sees as a fundamental part of her identity.
Embracing the challenge
“I love to challenge myself.” Aleks says.
“It’s not about judging my success, but having a goal helps to motivate me to make positive changes. I enjoy the journey and that was particularly true when it came to learning how to follow a healthy, vegan diet.
“Back in 2021, many of my friends were vegetarian or vegan and I wanted to see if I could follow a vegan diet myself. I had several motivations to cut out animal products from my diet; I was concerned about the dairy industry and wider animal welfare issues surrounding the production of meat and dairy, in addition, for me veganism is an important environmental choice. Once I made the switch to veganism I never lapsed, but I did learn some important lessons that made it much easier and more enjoyable!”
Try Aleks’ favourite kombuchas for yourself
Original kombucha
Our Original will always be my Number 1. I’m fan of its pure flavour. Sometimes I brew my own kombucha, mixing different types of teas, and I think the love for the classic fermented flavour grew from that.
Sicilian orange & Yuzu Kombucha
Orange & Yuzu is my favourite of our fruity kombuchas. It reminds me of Fanta, which is a taste of my childhood. Now I have a healthy version which is even better!
Ginger kombucha
Ginger is great when I need a pick-me-up, either in the morning to start the day better, or when I need a little bit of a vitamin kick because I’m not feeling great – it’s the best option.
Find the life in your food
Aleks says that she found the transition to veganism gave her the chance to see food in a completely new way. It was exciting to experiment with food and find new ways to make familiar ingredients the star of her meals.
She says: “I tried a few meat substitutes but quickly realised that they weren’t for me. I didn’t use recipes, I just focused on the ingredients I loved and experimented with how to prepare the dishes I enjoy using just vegan-friendly ingredients.
“There’s lots of life in my food. My cooking skills have improved, and I love to cook for friends and surprise them with the flavour and excitement you can have in vegan dishes.”
Do your homework
If you’re considering adopting a vegan diet for Veganuary, or as a long-term choice, Aleks has some tips:
- It’s important to do your homework. I would recommend researching the iron content of different foods to ensure you’re getting enough. Anaemia is a common problem, particularly for women, and it’s simple to top up your iron with a supplement. Make sure you pair it with Vitamin C to aid absorption.
- I take vitamin B12 supplements as this can be difficult to find in a plant-based diet. There’s plenty of useful information on the NHS website and the Vegan Society is a rich source of tips, recipes and information.
- There’s no need to start all at once – why not start with one or two vegan days a week and build up?
- Herbs and spices are your friends – even the most humble vegetable can be made into something delicious and satisfying with a little care and creativity.
And one final piece of advice from Aleks…Have fun with your food.
Aleks says: “I think my challenge has been easier to stick to because I didn’t get too hung up on making perfect meals. Sometimes my creativity led to brilliant discoveries, other times I made things I will never repeat!”
