Besides a brief vegetarian episode I recall back in high school, I have always enjoyed meat, dairy, and eggs. I don’t see myself as the “Vegan” type; “conservative’ would be better fit me if I had to pick.
However, after watching a gruesome video on slaughterhouses and the miserable lives that brought the animals there along, with the effects of steroids and antibiotics fed to these poor creatures, I decided to turn Vegan.
To pretend it was easy would be a lie, but different it was, and certainly challenging.
First, I cleared out my pantry
I invited some friends over, made my first Vegan hors d’ oeuvres, and on the way out I gave everyone a care package of my former (non-Vegan) food.
Second, I bought several Vegan Cookbooks
I enjoy cooking, but besides that I also understand the difficulties in trying to maintain Vegan when eating out. So most meals were prepared at home.
Third, I shopped at local Supermarkets and Farmer’s Markets that offered clearly marked Organic and Vegan food selections.
This may sound obvious, but many supermarkets do not carry Vegan staples such as Seitan. Shopping where these items are readily available made the transition easier for me.
The results of my Vegan Diet were pretty impressive and quick to notice. Without the consumption of any animal fat or byproduct, my energy level was noticeably higher throughout the day. That sleepiness we get after we had a good meal never came, no matter how many beans, grains and vegetables I ate.
With the higher energy also came a significant weight loss. Within several weeks I noticed my clothes fit looser and although I am certain it will level out eventually, it seemed impressive for me that I was still eating the same amount of food, just no animal products whatsoever.
There are of course days on which temptation is difficult to fend off. Those are the days that I seek like-minded people to hold onto for strength. Local groups are great, but in a jiffy, a Vegan Restaurant will do just fine.
I hope you will enjoy your new food palate and experience the many new and exciting ways of preparing and devouring Vegan meals.