Vitor Brunow, known online as Mano Veganu, a digital influencer , is gaining a significant online following by promoting a vegan and healthy lifestyle. With an audience of approximately 2.4 million across platforms like TikTok, Kwai, Instagram, and YouTube, Brunow focuses on disseminating information about veganism and holistic well-being.
Brunow adopted veganism in 2018, driven by a commitment to environmental sustainability and personal health. He began creating content in 2019, combining humor with vegan lifestyle insights to make the philosophy more accessible. His content features a variety of recipes using legumes, fruits, nuts, and vegetables, alongside shopping vlogs and guided meditation practices. He also addresses common concerns, such as Vitamin B12 deficiency, noting its global prevalence and offering practical advice.
Challenging misconceptions, Brunow has successfully gained eight kilograms of muscle mass, demonstrating that a vegan diet can support significant muscle development. He states that his personal health markers have shown consistent positive trends since transitioning to a vegan lifestyle. Research supports his experience, indicating that plant-based protein can be as effective as animal protein for muscle building, with some studies showing comparable or even greater lean mass gains in individuals following a vegan diet during resistance training. A 2023 study showed that a high-protein vegan diet (1.6–2 g/kg body weight per day) can lead to slightly greater muscle mass gain than a traditional diet.
Brunow maintains an active presence on social media, with 1.3 million followers on TikTok, 530,000 on Kwai, 370,000 on Instagram, and 275,000 subscribers on YouTube. His content ranges from short-form videos to vlogs and detailed recipes. While a vegan diet offers numerous health advantages, experts emphasize the importance of addressing potential nutrient deficiencies, particularly Vitamin B12. Vegans are advised to take B12 supplements to avoid risks such as irreversible nerve damage, as B12 is primarily found in animal products.
The transition to veganism also has a significant positive impact on the environment. For example, one study showed a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, 54% in water pollution, and 75% in land use. Research indicates that vegan diets contribute to a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and land use compared to meat-rich diets. This highlights the dual benefit of veganism: for personal health and for the planet.
Brunow's core mission is to inspire positive shifts towards healthier eating habits for everyone, regardless of their dietary choices, believing in the universal benefits of a more conscious and health-oriented lifestyle.