As a vegan, it’s essential to pay attention to what we eat and drink to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

While water is the go-to drink for most people, vegans have a variety of options to choose from.

Whether it’s plant-based milk alternatives, fruit juices, or healthy hydration options, there are plenty of beverages that fit into a vegan diet.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of drinks that vegans can enjoy besides water. We’ll also discuss the nutritional benefits of each drink and answer some frequently asked questions about vegan beverages.

Whether you’re a vegan or just looking for some healthy drink options, this article will provide you with all the information you need.

Key Takeaways – What Do Vegans Drink Besides Water

• Vegans have a variety of drink options available besides water, including plant-based milk alternatives, fruit and vegetable juices, and healthy hydration options.
• Tea and coffee variations are also popular among vegans, but it’s essential to ensure that they are made with vegan-friendly ingredients.
• Vegan-friendly soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available, but it’s important to check the ingredients before consuming them.

Understanding Veganism and Beverages

Defining a Vegan Diet

A vegan diet is a plant-based diet that excludes all animal products. This includes meat, dairy, eggs, and honey.

Vegans choose to follow this lifestyle for various reasons, including ethical, environmental, and health concerns.

When it comes to beverages, vegans avoid drinks that contain animal products or by-products, such as milk, honey, and gelatin.

They also avoid drinks that are processed using animal products, such as beer and wine that may use animal-derived fining agents.

Importance of Hydration and Plant-Based Drinks

Hydration is crucial for overall health and well-being. It helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and flush out toxins.

While water is the best drink for hydration, there are many plant-based drinks that can also provide hydration and offer additional health benefits.

Plant-based drinks such as herbal teas, coconut water, and fruit juices are great options for hydration. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.

Vegans can also enjoy non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, soy, and oat milk.

These plant-based milks are fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making them a great alternative to dairy milk.

Plant-Based Milk Alternatives

As a vegan, you might be wondering what milk alternatives are available for you. Luckily, there are many plant-based milk alternatives that can satisfy your taste buds and provide you with the necessary nutrients. Here are some of the most popular non-dairy milk alternatives:

Almond Milk and Its Benefits

Almond milk is one of the most popular non-dairy milk alternatives. It is made from ground almonds and water, and it has a creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Almond milk is low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those who are watching their weight. It is also rich in vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage.

Soy, Oat, and Cashew Milks

Soy milk is another popular non-dairy milk alternative. It is made from soybeans and water, and it has a creamy texture and mild flavor.

Soy milk is high in protein and calcium, making it a great option for vegans who are looking to increase their protein intake.

Oat milk is made from oats and water, and it has a creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. It is a good source of fiber and is often fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Cashew milk is made from ground cashews and water, and it has a creamy texture and nutty flavor. It is a good source of healthy fats and is often fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Coconut and Other Nut Milks

Coconut milk is a popular non-dairy milk alternative that is made from the flesh of coconuts and water. It has a creamy texture and sweet flavor, and it is often used in cooking and baking.

Coconut milk is high in saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation.

Other nut milks, such as hazelnut and macadamia nut milk, are also available. These milks have a creamy texture and nutty flavor, and they are often fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Tea and Coffee Variations

When it comes to vegan drinks, tea and coffee are two of the most popular choices. Fortunately, there are plenty of vegan-friendly options available for both.

Herbal and Green Teas

Herbal and green teas are a great choice for vegans looking for a warm, comforting drink.

Some popular herbal tea flavors include peppermint, chamomile, and ginger. Green tea is also a great option as it contains antioxidants and has been shown to have numerous health benefits.

Vegan-Friendly Coffee Options

For coffee lovers, there are plenty of vegan-friendly options available as well.

Many coffee shops now offer soy or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to traditional milk.

You can also make your own vegan latte at home using soy or almond milk and alternative sweeteners like stevia, maple syrup, or cinnamon.

Alternative Sweeteners and Flavorings

When it comes to sweetening your tea or coffee, there are plenty of vegan options available.

Stevia is a popular zero-calorie sweetener that is derived from the leaves of the stevia plant.

Maple syrup is another great option that adds a rich, sweet flavor to your drink.

Cinnamon and vanilla are also great options for adding flavor without adding calories.

Fruit and Vegetable Juices

As a vegan, it’s important to ensure that we get all the essential vitamins and minerals that our body needs.

One great way to do this is by incorporating fruit and vegetable juices into our daily diet.

Not only are they delicious and refreshing, but they also provide us with a wide range of nutrients that are essential for our health.

Fresh Juices and Smoothies

Fresh juices and smoothies are a great way to get a quick burst of nutrients.

Whether it’s a green smoothie packed with leafy greens or a refreshing apple juice, there are plenty of options to choose from.

One of our favorite recipes is a green smoothie made with spinach, kale, cucumber, and apple. It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals and is a great way to start the day.

Nutritional Benefits of Vegetable Juices

Vegetable juices are also a great way to get essential nutrients.

They are packed with vitamins and minerals and are a great way to add more vegetables to our diet.

Some of the best vegetables to juice include carrots, beets, and celery.

Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for healthy eyesight, while beets are packed with iron, which is essential for healthy blood.

Celery is also a great choice as it is rich in potassium, which is essential for healthy blood pressure.

Healthy Hydration Options

As a vegan, it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day.

While water is the most obvious choice for maintaining fluid balance in the body, there are other healthy options available that can help us stay hydrated.

Coconut Water and Its Electrolytes

Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes, including potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which can help replenish the body after exercise.

In fact, coconut water has more potassium than bananas, which helps keep fluid and electrolyte levels balanced, especially during exercise.

In addition to its hydrating properties, coconut water is also low in calories and contains antioxidants.

Sparkling and Mineral Waters

Sparkling water is a great way to add some fizz to your hydration routine without adding any calories or sugar.

It’s also a good source of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium.

Mineral water is similar to sparkling water, but it contains higher levels of minerals, such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

When choosing sparkling or mineral water, make sure to check the label for added sugars or artificial flavors.

Look for options that are 100% natural and free from added sugars.

Vegan-Friendly Soft Drinks

As a vegan, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients in the soft drinks we consume.

While many sodas are not vegan-friendly due to the use of animal derivatives in their production, there are still plenty of options to choose from.

Natural Sodas Without Animal Derivatives

One option for vegan-friendly soft drinks are natural sodas. These sodas are made with natural ingredients and do not contain any animal derivatives.

Brands like Fentimans and Fever-Tree offer a variety of flavors that are vegan-friendly, including Curiosity Cola, Victorian Lemonade, Cherry Cola, Indian Tonic Water, and Ginger Ale.

Another option is to look for sodas that are sweetened with natural sweeteners like agave or stevia instead of refined sugar.

These natural sweeteners are plant-based and do not involve the use of animal derivatives in their production.

Reading Labels for Hidden Ingredients

When choosing vegan-friendly soft drinks, make sure to read the labels carefully.

Some soft drinks may contain hidden animal derivatives in their ingredients, such as gelatin or cochineal extract (a red dye made from crushed insects).

Brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have a range of soft drinks that are vegan-friendly, but it’s important to check the label to ensure that there are no hidden animal derivatives in the ingredients.

Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the sugar content in soft drinks, as many contain high amounts of refined sugar which can have negative effects on our health.

Alcoholic Beverages for Vegans

As a vegan, it’s essential to know what alcoholic beverages are safe to consume.

Fortunately, there are plenty of vegan-friendly options available, including wine, beer, and cocktails. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best alcoholic beverages for vegans.

Vegan Wines and Beers

Wine and beer are two of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world.

Many people assume that all wines and beers are vegan, but that’s not always the case. Some wines and beers use animal-derived fining agents, such as gelatin, isinglass, and egg whites, to clarify the liquid.

However, many vegan-friendly options are available in the market.

Vegan wines and beers are typically labeled as such, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.

Organizations like the Vegan Society and PETA provide vegan certifications to alcoholic beverages that meet their criteria.

Some popular vegan wine brands include Frey Vineyards, Bonterra, and Yellow Tail. For beer lovers, there are plenty of vegan options, such as Sierra Nevada, Samuel Smith’s, and Lagunitas.

Crafting Vegan Cocktails

Crafting vegan cocktails is easy once you know which ingredients to use.

Many spirits, such as vodka, rum, and tequila, are vegan, as they are made from plant-based ingredients.

However, some brands of vodka and rum may be filtered with animal products, so it is always best to check the label.

Liqueurs and other flavored alcoholic beverages may contain animal-derived ingredients, so vegans should exercise caution.

Some popular vegan liqueurs include Kahlua, Baileys Almande, and Cointreau.

When crafting cocktails, non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk can be used in place of cream, and creative garnishes can elevate the look and taste of drinks.

In addition to wine and cocktails, ciders are another popular alcoholic beverage among vegans.

Many ciders are vegan-friendly, but some may contain honey, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.

Some popular vegan cider brands include Angry Orchard, Strongbow, and Woodchuck.

Energy Drinks and Nutrition

Vegan Energy Drinks

Vegans can enjoy a range of energy drinks that are free from animal products.

Some popular vegan energy drinks include Power Dream Soy Energy Drink and Monster Energy Drinks. These drinks are usually made with plant-based ingredients such as caffeine, guarana, and taurine.

It is important to note that not all energy drinks are vegan, so it is important to check the label before purchasing.

Some energy drinks may contain ingredients such as honey, gelatin, or carmine, which are not vegan.

Assessing Nutritional Value and Sugar Content

When assessing the nutritional value of energy drinks, it is important to consider the sugar content.

Many energy drinks are high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems.

Some vegan energy drinks, such as Power Dream Soy Energy Drink, are lower in sugar than traditional energy drinks.

However, it is still important to consume energy drinks in moderation and to balance them with other healthy foods and beverages.

To help you make informed choices, we have compiled a table below comparing the nutritional value and sugar content of Power Dream Soy Energy Drink and Monster Energy Drinks.

Energy Drink	Calories	Sugar Content
Power Dream Soy Energy Drink	130	13g
Monster Energy Drinks	110	27g

As you can see, Power Dream Soy Energy Drink has fewer calories and less sugar than Monster Energy Drinks.

However, it is important to note that both drinks should be consumed in moderation.

Related Reading: Vegan Drink Options

14 Healthy Drinks to Enjoy Besides Water, According to Experts – Discover expert-recommended vegan beverages that go beyond plain water, offering both taste and nutritional benefits.

Vegan Drink Listing (Juices, Soda, Energy Drinks, and More) – A comprehensive guide to vegan-friendly drinks, including juices, sodas, and energy drinks, perfect for any occasion.

17 Best Vegan Drinks (+ Plant-Based Beverages) – Explore the top vegan drinks that are as satisfying as they are nutritious, from plant-based milks to herbal teas.

12 Healthy Vegan Drinks You Should Try – FULFoods – FULFoods offers a curated list of vegan drinks that promise health benefits and delicious flavors.

18 Delicious Vegan Drinks & Beverages (Hot and Cold) – From hot beverages to refreshing cold drinks, this list has something for every vegan’s taste.

15+ List of Vegan Drinks that are Extremely Delicious – Dive into a list of vegan drinks that prove you don’t need to compromise on flavor for ethics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which non-dairy milks are suitable for vegans?

There are numerous non-dairy milk options available for vegans, including soy, almond, oat, rice, coconut, and hemp milk.

These milks can be used in a variety of recipes, including smoothies, coffee, and baking.

It is important to read the labels carefully when purchasing non-dairy milk, as some brands may contain additives or sweeteners that are not vegan-friendly.

What types of tea and coffee can vegans consume?

Vegans can consume most types of tea and coffee, as long as they are not made with animal-derived ingredients such as honey or milk.

Black, green, and herbal teas are all vegan-friendly, as are black coffee and espresso. Some coffee shops may offer non-dairy milk options for lattes and cappuccinos.

Can vegans drink alcoholic beverages, and if so, which ones?

Yes, vegans can drink alcoholic beverages, but it is important to check the ingredients to ensure they are vegan-friendly.

Some beers and wines may use animal-derived fining agents, while some cocktails may contain dairy or other animal products.

Fortunately, there are many vegan-friendly beer, wine, and spirits options available.

What are some popular vegan smoothie recipes?

There are countless vegan smoothie recipes available online, but some popular options include green smoothies made with spinach, kale, and fruit, as well as chocolate peanut butter smoothies made with non-dairy milk and frozen bananas.

Smoothies can be customized to include a variety of fruits, veggies, and protein sources such as nut butter or protein powder.

Are there specific vegan brands of soft drinks?

Many soft drinks are vegan-friendly, but it is important to check the ingredients to ensure they do not contain animal-derived additives or sweeteners.

Some popular vegan-friendly soft drink brands include Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Sprite.

What plant-based energy drinks are available for vegans?

There are several plant-based energy drink options available for vegans. These include Guru, Runa, and Hiball Energy.

These drinks are made with natural ingredients such as yerba mate, green tea, and guarana. They are also free from animal-derived ingredients.

It is important to consume energy drinks in moderation. This is because they can be high in caffeine and sugar.