Tag: protein

Personally, I have chosen to live a vegetarian lifestyle for about the last 13 years. While I will always encourage others to do the same and respect those who abstain from meat and/or dairy, I understand that changing a diet so drastically may be a large and intimidating step for some people to take. So, I’ve compiled a list of tips and things to remember that may help those who would like to transition to vegetarianism or veganism but are feeling unsure that they can do it successfully.

1. Take it slow. Changing your diet does not have to be a drastic and immediate change. A gradual move towards vegetarianism or veganism will help ease you into this adjustment. Additionally, a slower shift is more sustainable, and likely to make it in to a long-term lifestyle move. Try beginning with just a once-a-week vegetarian meal, like a Meatless Monday challenge. Don’t be ashamed to take baby steps!
2. Do some research. Read up on how to get all the necessary protein and nutrients from non-meat foods. Need a place to start? Check out my blog’s page on meat alternatives – it even gives you the approximately amount of protein in each one. Also look for some recipes that will introduce you to new plant-based food ideas. (You may want to start with some simple recipes so that you’re more inclined to actually make them.)
3. Stock up. Once you know what vegetarian-friendly or vegan-friendly foods you’ll be wanting, go to the grocery store and make sure you get plenty of options. It’s easier to stick to a plant-based diet if you have the food available at home. It might also be a good idea to read up on the different food labels and what they mean so you can pick the best items at the store. (Check out my page “Learn the Language” for some quick information.)
4. Host vegetarian/vegan dinners with your friends. Sometimes, it can help to have the support of your friends when you’re taking on a new challenge like this. This isn’t to say that the purpose of this get-together would be to change their minds and pressure them to cut out meat too. But having your buddies around all enjoying the same thing may help you start to feel more comfortable about choosing this lifestyle. (According to Self.com, “Studies show that failure to stick with a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle is often attributed to feeling ‘different’ or isolated. Food is all about community and sharing, so do your best to share this lifestyle with people you care about—even if they’re not making the change along with you.”) Also, if you can create something really yummy that’s also vegan, you’ll impress them and they’ll probably support your decision even more and may even treat you to a plant-based dinner sometime.
5. Remind yourself of why you’re doing this. Whether it’s for environmental reasons, health reasons, or animal/ethical reasons, it’s helpful to keep telling yourself why you are making this sacrifice/change. It’s a different experience for everyone, but if it gets particularly difficult for you, just tell yourself all of the benefits of making this switch so you can reinforce your decision and encourage yourself to keep it up.