Lots of individuals find the transition to veganism easy, but others may have a more difficult time. Sometimes it is a gradual process of weeks, months or even years and other times it happens overnight. Keep in mind that everyone is different and if you are one of those who finds the process more difficult, do not get discouraged.
An important fact to remember is that the meat and dairy industry are directly linked to one another. Cows who can no longer produce milk and hens who can no longer lay eggs are immediately sent to slaughter for things like pet food. Therefore, even if you consume no meat but choose to still indulge in dairy products, animals are still being harmed.
Start by eating a variety of fruits for breakfasts, smoothies are easy and delicious options. My favorite is strawberry and mango with a splash of agave. Most commercial oatmeal is vegan as well as pancake mix and some bagels. Dried fruits, nuts and seeds are perfect snack options between meals. Experiment with butters like almond, cashew and macadamia. Almost all meat/dairy products have a vegan alternative such as Veganaise, Tofurky, Earth Balance, Daiya cheese, etc. You will find that your dinners will become one dish wonders. Things like stir fries, pasta dishes, quinoa salads, etc. Pinterest is a fantastic little helper for recipe ideas. Try to stay away from or minimize the amount of white bread, rice or pasta you consume as well as excessive sugar. Remember, lots junk foods even though they aren't advertised as vegan do not contain animal ingredients. It is easy to snack away all day on unhealthy things. The object is not only to save the lives of animals, but also to become healthier in the process.
Eating out can be a bit of a challenge, depending on your area. Happycow.net will give you a list of restaurants in your area with vegan options. Practically every fast food and sit down restaurant has a salad menu. Asian and Thai places feature great tofu dishes. Taco bell is one of your cheapest options. Order a bean burrito with no cheese and a side of rice and black beans. Subway has a great veggie sub (order on Italian bread). You can order a cheese-less pizza from Papa Johns since their dough and sauce are vegan and add your own veggies toppings at home. YUM!
An important fact to remember is that the meat and dairy industry are directly linked to one another. Cows who can no longer produce milk and hens who can no longer lay eggs are immediately sent to slaughter for things like pet food. Therefore, even if you consume no meat but choose to still indulge in dairy products, animals are still being harmed.
Start by eating a variety of fruits for breakfasts, smoothies are easy and delicious options. My favorite is strawberry and mango with a splash of agave. Most commercial oatmeal is vegan as well as pancake mix and some bagels. Dried fruits, nuts and seeds are perfect snack options between meals. Experiment with butters like almond, cashew and macadamia. Almost all meat/dairy products have a vegan alternative such as Veganaise, Tofurky, Earth Balance, Daiya cheese, etc. You will find that your dinners will become one dish wonders. Things like stir fries, pasta dishes, quinoa salads, etc. Pinterest is a fantastic little helper for recipe ideas. Try to stay away from or minimize the amount of white bread, rice or pasta you consume as well as excessive sugar. Remember, lots junk foods even though they aren't advertised as vegan do not contain animal ingredients. It is easy to snack away all day on unhealthy things. The object is not only to save the lives of animals, but also to become healthier in the process.
Eating out can be a bit of a challenge, depending on your area. Happycow.net will give you a list of restaurants in your area with vegan options. Practically every fast food and sit down restaurant has a salad menu. Asian and Thai places feature great tofu dishes. Taco bell is one of your cheapest options. Order a bean burrito with no cheese and a side of rice and black beans. Subway has a great veggie sub (order on Italian bread). You can order a cheese-less pizza from Papa Johns since their dough and sauce are vegan and add your own veggies toppings at home. YUM!
Sometimes it take a little extra effort to care, but I am always willing to put in that effort if it means others do not have to suffer or die for me. Who am I to ask others to make that sacrifice? Just think outside the box. Being vegan is super easy once you have made your initial adjustment. The hardest part,for me, has been my critics. Stay tuned for a blog post on how to deal with those negative Nancys in your life. :)