Going VEGAN Episode 7: Taking the Challenge on Tour

Going VEGAN Episode 7: Taking the Challenge on Tour

DYLAN’S DIARY FOR THIS EPISODE

Almost a month! In this episode we officially take this challenge on the road and I receive kind words and support from Cro-Mags frontman John Joseph and fellow bandmate Andrew Totemoff.

I gotta say, so far this new diet has been pretty easy and not too taxing on me, but the challenge has been taken to a whole new level of difficulty as I move out of our apartment and into the van. Besides a backpack and pillow, I’m armed with a big bag of my signature oatmeal concoction, some produce, mixed nuts, boiled quinoa, and some dry cereal. Not having a kitchen and fridge at my expense is kind of a concern, but I think I’ve done enough research so far to keep me healthy..

The first few days aren’t so bad – a hearty breakfast can keep me tied over for some time and almonds are great for hunger pangs. I’ve discovered that quinoa and hot sauce isn’t as bad as it sounds, and Subway has become my best friend. After about a week though I start to feel the effects of subsisting on only dry foods: lethargic, grumpy, tired to name a few. It’s surprising how much your body reacts when you subtract essential nutrients from it – both mentally and physically. I am short tempered in the van and especially exhausted after shows, this sucks actually.

But things get better when we have a few days on the east coast in the studio without shows. A refrigerator and stove?! Oh how I’ve missed you! Not only do I have the chance to go to a grocery store and stock up on some delicious goods but I also try Indian food for the first time(so good!). I’m happy, the guys are happy, and my tummy is happy. Life is ok

So a big thankyou to John Joseph for providing advice, support, and showing me that veganism on the road can work. He is a great example of success for me and anyone else out there who is considering trying this wonderful yet challenging way of life. I feel recharged and determined. Almost done!

-Dylan Mandel, The Lives of Famous Men

ABOUT GOING VEGAN

No meat. No eggs. No cheese. No Jello.
Planet Verge challenged The Lives of Famous Men drummer Dylan Mandel to abstain from consuming animal products for one month and document the process for its On The Verge. The series, titled Going Vegan, will follow Mandel at his home in Portland and as he road trips across the USA, where he will cut flesh foods, eggs and dairy cold turkey (pardon the pun) from his diet. Follow him as he learns that being vegan goes beyond his diet, to his clothes, shampoo and even daily vitamins. He’ll meet vegan friends who help him along the way as he takes his 30 days one day at a time.

Similar Posts:

• Going VEGAN Episode 6: What’s Cooking?
• Going VEGAN Episode 4: Condoms Aren’t Vegan?
• Going VEGAN Episode 3: Visiting Mom in Seattle, Washington
• Going VEGAN Episode 8: Beyond the Challenge (series finale!)
• Going VEGAN Episode 5: Cow’s Breast Milk