“Veganism is a lifestyle. And one that you should enjoy! It’s personal, it’s affordable, and can lead to a world of vibrant health.”
We sat down with Christina Mason of @veganafropixie
September 19, 2018
Q: What inspired you to become a vegan?
A: I started a plant-based diet for the glow up. I was 210 pounds on a drive-thru diet, and I wanted to be in the #whatsawaist squad so bad. This quickly evolved into an afro vegan lifestyle for wellness and food justice. Hip hop artist Waka Flocka said he was tired of being lied to about food, and I felt that in my shondo.
Q: Tell us your favorite vegan dish.
A: I am a blendaholic. I love smoothies that taste like dessert!
Chocolate Mint Green Smoothie
1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (oat milk is so creamy!)
1-2 frozen bananas (swap for coconut meat if you need to reduce sugar intake)
2 handfuls raw spinach
Sprinkle of fresh mint leaves
1 tsp vanilla extract
Dash of cinnamon
2 tbsp raw cacao powder
Dash of stevia (optional)
Blend until creamy (usually 30 seconds with a high-power blender). Enjoy!
Q: What is your daily vegan beauty routine?
A: I love oil rinsing. It easily cleans away acne-causing bacteria and makeup without stripping sebum from my face. I follow up with an AVC-based toner, botanical serum, and finally oxybenzone-free sunscreen all over my face, neck, and shoulders.
I love to tap Samudra's Shea Body Butter underneath my eyes to “wake up”, it’s perfectly light and cooling. That aloe, tho’! When I'm wearing a skirt or dress, I love moisturizing with the body butter for an extra glow!
“I love to tap Samudra’s Shea Body Butter underneath my eyes to “wake up”, it’s perfectly light and cooling. That aloe, tho’!”
Q: Any tips for people who want to pursue a vegan lifestyle?
A: Eat the world. Try a new restaurant that’s plant-based by default: Ethiopian, Indian, Mediterranean, Cambodian, or Thai.
Eat cheap. Shop by season, at farmers markets, worker-owned cooperatives, and sign up for a local CSA box.
Be nutrient rich. Meat eater or not, Americans are severely nutrient deficient. Make sure you get enough plant-based sources of:
Calcium
Vitamin D
B-12 (methylcobalamin supplement)
Protein
Omega-3 fatty acids
Iron
Zinc
Iodine
Veganism is a lifestyle. And one that you should enjoy! It’s personal, it’s affordable, and can lead to a world of vibrant health. If you ever feel deterred, this vegan calculator will remind you of the positive impact you are making in the world.
Bonus! Christina is hosting a giveaway with our ultra-rich Body Butter. Check her Instagram for all the details!