Where do you begin when considering a vegan lifestyle? Everyone seems to have that one defining moment; the moment that makes them say “Maybe there is something to this whole veganism thing after all!” For me, it was a book, which led to a movie, which then led to dozens of vegan books and documentaries!
Since there are so many amazing vegan books and documentaries available, here is a list of where to start. I have read many books and watched many movies, so I had to narrow down the list. Fair warning: Please note that some of these books and films will elicit very strong emotions and feelings. Please prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.
I would suggest starting with this video by Gary Yourofsky. He tends to be quite controversial but he is thought-provoking, in a good way. Then, I would suggest checking out these vegan books and documentaries (most of which can be found on Netflix).
Books
1. The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell
This book focuses on the crucial connection between nutrition your health. The study isn’t strictly about vegan or vegetarian diets, but it does refer to plant foods over animal-based foods. It touches on the nutritional information that is often skewed by government and other authorities. After reading, you will believe the concept of “you are what you eat.”
2. Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease by Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn
Dr. Esselstyn’s book about a plant-based diet is proof that food is nature’s medicine. He incorporates his own studies and outcomes of his patients that followed the diet he suggests. There is also a cookbook that follows Dr. Esselstyn’s diet of veganism including no oil.
3. Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman
This book is meant to improve your health that will let you live longer. Scientific research is involved to support the natural healing Dr. Fuhrman discusses.
Documentaries
1. Earthlings
This documentary is about the economic dependence on animals narrated by Joaquin Phoenix. This footage shows the endless suffering that animals experience in puppy mills, research labs, factory farming and more.
2. Cowspiracy
Cowspiracy is about how negatively animal agriculture, specifically cattle farms, effects the environment. The film shows that the animals being raised for food is to blame for most of the environment’s destruction.
3. Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead
This is a documentary about Joe Cross’ journey from being an overly obese man to an improved, healthy person by changing his diet to juicing. It has the power to inspire anyone that is struggling with their health.
4. Food, Inc.
Huge food corporations are exposed in this documentary. The film shows all aspects of the food we are eating in supermarkets, restaurants, farms and factories.
5. Food Matters
This film encourages people to improve their well being with nutrition, rather than medication.
6. Forks Over Knives
Forks Over Knives is an eye-opening film that is about how most diseases humans are affected by can be reversed by a healthy diet.
7. Vegucated
This documentary follows three New Yorkers who loved cheese and meat before agreeing to a vegan diet for six weeks. It shows the hardships of transitioning as well as the positives.
8. Speciesism
This movie reveals the secrets of factory farming that many people are unaware of.
9. The Cove
This film is about the one crime in Japan that isn’t talked about enough: the capture and slaughter of dolphins.
10. Blackfish
The cruelty of Seaworld is highlighted in this documentary. It explores the behavior differences between captive whales and free whales. Specifically, it focuses on Tilikum, the killer whale that killed several people while captive.
These are just a few get you started. I hope these resources will guide you on your new, or continuing, journey of veganism. Which of these vegan books and documentaries have been helpful for you? Please let us know in the comments!
Chris Snyder says
I recently watched Forks Over Knives for the second time. Such an eye opening documentary and really inspired me to change my eating habits.
Dave Willits says
All excellent choices! For me, you could say I backed into it. After consciously experiencing death during a massive heart attack, I did not want to go down that road again. My research led me to Dr. Esselstyn’s book and Dr. Campbell’s book. It’s been over 2 yrs since converting to that lifestyle and have never been healthier. I highly recommend traveling down this road, unlimited benefits.