Being vegetarian is a choice that crosses many people's minds at least once in their life. Whether the thought was to actually consider becoming a vegetarian or it was a thought of admiration because you love meat too much to stop eating it, being vegetarian is a popular dietary lifestyle that many people think about. Just like any other diet, being vegetarian can be extremely difficult at first but can also be extremely rewarding after some time. I’ve been vegetarian for four years and it has been a very large lifestyle change. It isn't easy, but if you are willing to take the plunge, here are some tips to help you make the transition.
1. Make sure this is what you want.
Many people consider becoming vegetarian but it’s not for everyone. Do not do it simply because everyone else is doing it. Being vegetarian takes commitment and if you are used to a diet high in meat, it will be extremely difficult at first. If you have any health problems that require you to eat meat for its vitamins, then I would also not recommend you start a vegetarian diet.
2. Be patient.
Being vegetarian is hard. It may be difficult at first and you may give in and eat the occasional hamburger but do not stress over it. Like any other big change, baby steps are important in order to get to your goal.
3. Start small.
Do not start by throwing out all meat products. Start by slowly leaning off meat during meals until you eventually feel comfortable enough to not eat it at all. If you start by taking away meat completely, it’ll be difficult for you to find things to eat. You have to learn what you do and do not like to eat before you stop eating something completely.
4. Do some research.
Look up some vegetarian recipes to find new things to eat. Being vegetarian is much more than eating salads. We can eat pastas, soups, pizza, and anything else that meat eaters eat. If it helps, look up some factory farming videos to get a bit of a sentimental attachment to your food. It helps if you have an idea of what happens in factories and what animals go through before becoming food on a plate.
5. Don’t take advice from people who are not vegetarian.
I’ve heard countless of vegetarian horror stories only to find out they came from people who weren’t vegetarian themselves. Truth is, everyone is biased about their dietary choices and some people may find it weird if you are considering the choice of excluding a food category they love.
6. Try new foods.
You won’t know if being vegetarian is a good fit for you unless you try new foods. Start by incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your meals. Try some that you have never eaten or that you don’t usually eat.
7. Figure out where your protein will come from.
I have personally never had trouble with getting my protein or vitamins. Getting the proper amount of necessary vitamins is usually the main concern people have with going vegetarian. This is not as big of a problem as people make it seem. Beans and rice can give you the same amount of protein that meat does. As for vitamins, research the kind of fruits and vegetables that give you the most substantial vitamins you need. However, talk to your doctor if you have any concerns with your dietary needs.
8. Talk about it.
Talking about your dietary choices can make it easier to adjust. When I first became vegetarian, I found it fun to tell my friends about the new things I was learning. It also makes it easier for others to adjust to your lifestyle. I have friends that make vegetarian food whenever they have parties if they know I am attending. Being a vegetarian takes support and you should feel comfortable talking to people if you have concerns or find it necessary to talk it out.
9. Find substitutions.
Many restaurants have veggie patties you can substitute in for burgers or other foods. Local food stores also carry meat alternatives like tofu in addition to veggie patties. Find substitutes that you enjoy eating, but remember that they’re not all going to taste like meat. There is bologna, hot dogs, and steak that are made of soy and tofu but they do not taste like real meat so make sure you are open and realistic. You should also not feel obligated to eat something just because it’s vegetarian.
10. Reward yourself.
Be proud of any progress you make on your journey to vegetarianism. Whether you haven’t eaten meat in a week or three months, be proud of what you’ve done and reward yourself for the progress you’ve made. If you have a tough week and end up eaten meat again, do not feel bad. Everyone struggles differently when going vegetarian and if it takes you over a year to be vegetarian, then that’s perfectly fine.
