Viji Moo’s Journey From IBS Warrior to Vegan Influencer

For those seeking vegan recipes with a South Indian flair, Vijayalakshmi Vikram’s Instagram page is a must-visit. Known as ‘Viji Moo’ on social media, she crafts wholesome and nutritious plant-based dishes while sharing her journey of managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) through a vegan diet. Viji Moo’s content stands out not only for the delicious recipes but also for the unique way she presents them, often featuring her pet indie dog to promote the adoption of indie dogs.

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Vijayalakshmi Vikram, or “Viji Moo” as her legions of fans know her, wasn’t always the picture of radiant health whipping up vegan delights on Instagram. Her story began with a struggle – a constant battle with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) that plagued her since childhood. Back then, gut health issues weren’t widely understood, and Viji’s condition was often dismissed. But Viji, a fighter at heart, wasn’t one to give up.

One fateful day, a magazine article on plant-based diets sparked a curiosity that would change her life. With a leap of faith, Viji embarked on a new path. Within months, it was a miracle. The constant discomfort vanished, replaced by a newfound lightness. Viji wasn’t just healing her gut; she was unlocking a world of vibrant flavors and a newfound passion.

This newfound knowledge ignited a spark within Viji. As she delved deeper, the ethical implications of animal agriculture tugged at her heart. The plight of dairy cows and their calves became a compelling reason to embrace veganism fully. Seven years ago, Viji made the switch, and a powerful voice for animals was born.

But Viji Moo’s mission wasn’t about deprivation or preaching. It was about showcasing the abundance of a plant-based world. In 2021, during the throes of the pandemic lockdown, Viji found solace in her kitchen. She started uploading recipes, aiming to show friends and family that delicious, familiar Indian food could be wonderfully vegan with a few clever swaps. What began as a personal project blossomed into a thriving online community. Viji Moo’s signature head-nods in her recipe reels became a beacon of encouragement, inspiring countless others to explore the colorful world of vegan possibilities.

Today, Viji Moo is a successful plant-based home chef, blogger, and a champion for indie dog adoption. But above all, she’s a beacon of hope, urging others to embrace the power of plants on their plates and in their hearts. Her message is simple – go vegan, one delicious step at a time. It’s a journey, not a destination, and Viji Moo is there to cheer you on every flavorful mile of the way.

Viji’s journey to gut health and a plant-based lifestyle has resulted in a unique and practical approach to food. In an interview she had with weather.com, she shares a little on her personal eating habits for viewers to take inspiration from. She doesn’t shy away from summertime staples like mangoes, incorporating them in moderation and both ripe and raw forms. She’s a firm believer in listening to her body’s cues, indulging in sweet or savory overnight oats depending on her mood. To combat afternoon slumps, her go-to solution is a refreshing concoction of watermelon juice and mint.

Viji emphasizes a balanced approach, rejecting the idea of sacrificing favorite foods during the summer. Instead, she champions portion control and mindful consumption. Even her beloved hot filter coffee finds a place in her summer routine, proving that a plant-based diet can be both delicious and adaptable to seasonal preferences. This mindful indulgence, along with incorporating seasonal vegetables and fruits, allows Viji to enjoy a vibrant and satisfying vegan lifestyle throughout the year.

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From IBS warrior to vegan rockstar, Viji Moo’s story is a testament to the power of food, community, and the unwavering spirit of a woman who dared to change her life, one delicious bite at a time.