Change isn’t always easy but it’s necessary - especially when it comes to our health. So, it’s no surprise that many people are now pursuing meatless options more often. According to Top Trends in Prepared Foods in 2017, six percent of Americans are now identifying as vegan, up from just one percent in 2014, with vegetables being the most consumed food globally. Besides providing major health benefits and supporting animal welfare, consuming a plant-based diet also serves the environment well by helping to prevent water depletion and pollution, as well as putting an end to other planetary burdens. Clearly, choosing more plant-based options can do both you and the world around you some good. If you’re interested in starting a plant-based diet but not sure where to start, try these tips to help you transition into a healthier life.
1. Ease into it
For some people, the start of something new can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re not sure where to start, and that’s especially true when it involves getting rid of something we’ve grown to be accustomed to - such as eating meat. Instead of jumping into the deep end, try stating off with eating maybe a few plant-based meals a week or maybe dedicate a day or two out of the week to eating only plant-based options (#meatlessmonday, anyone?). Either way, find a pace that works for you; if you find it challenging to eat meatless meals every day, back up a little bit and slowly come back in.
2. Research
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Before making the transition, spend some time reading up on vegan nutrition. Now, you don’t have to go and get every textbook you see discussing plant-based options, but researching definitely helps make the transition easier and more exciting.
3. Find community and support
Starting a new journey can feel lonely sometimes. Those around you may feel confused and unsure of why you’re making such a drastic change or you may feel that you stand out from the crowd too much with your different eating options. Those feelings alone, may make you want to give up the transition altogether, especially if you’re trekking this journey by yourself, so having the support of others can go a long way. If you have any family members or friends who seem interested in your new way of eating, try inviting them over to help you cook or even try a vegan recipe. They may not want to delve into this journey with you, but a delicious vegan meal can definitely win people over to being more open to the option and at least you’ve garnered some support. If you can’t find any support at home, try social media using different hashtags or even exploring a local vegan restaurant.
4. Experiment
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Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients or recipes and definitely play around with different spices. Being a plant-based eater can be as simple and delicious as you make it out to be, so, be adventurous and try new fruits, vegetables and maybe pick up a vegan cookbook to help you along the way.
5. Don’t be hard on yourself
This transition can be tough. Some days, you may do extremely well with your meals and other days, you may have a few slip-ups. It can be challenging for you to completely rid yourself of animal food and products if you’ve consumed excessive amounts for years. So, do your best and try not to be too hard on yourself if you have a mishap - you can start over.
6. Remember why you started.
Rather you started to become a healthier person or you’re devoted to animals’ rights, remember you made a commitment to yourself when you started this journey.
Everyday you commit to eating plant-based, you’re giving yourself a gift of being a healthier you. So, be positive and know that you are not only helping yourself but you’re also helping the world around you.
