A little over two years ago I made the choice to become vegetarian. It was mostly a health choice, but after I saw the documentary Food, Inc., my mind was completely made up. Since becoming vegetarian I have not felt sluggish after eating, gained creativity in the kitchen and lost nearly 50 pounds. Although it comes with some side effects, like constantly being questioned and the need to check a restaurant's menu before heading out to eat, I am two years strong and don't see a need to switch. Here are the top things that vegetarians are sick of here, based on my experience.

1. "So... do you eat fish?"

If I had a dollar for every time I heard this, I could be a life supply of avocado toast. Every person that finds out this, not-so-secret, fact about me asks this question. My response is simple with a side of sarcasm, "If it has eyes or a beating heart I don't eat it".

2. "I didn't eat meat for, like...three days. I just couldn't do it."

It's true, quitting cold turkey (pun intended) may not be possible for everyone. Incorporating a vegetarian meal once a week is a great start. Just because I'm vegetarian doesn't mean I expect everyone to make the same choice.

3. "Don't you ever crave a nice, crispy piece of bacon?"

I'm going to be honest, at first I was craving bacon a lot. The first month was really hard, especially because I was still on a meal plan at school. I would walk into the dining hall for breakfast and it was like a shark smelling the first drop of blood. However, I stayed strong like Bruce, Anchor, and Chum, the sharks from "Finding Nemo."

4. "How do you get enough protein?"

There are plenty of ways to get protein without chowing down on some animal flesh. It is said that women should get on average 46 gram of protein. One egg has six grams. The average for a cup of greek yogurt is 17 grams! Nuts, quinoa, beans, tofu and leafy greens all are great sources of protein for a vegetarian.

5. "How do you afford your groceries? Isn't it expensive?"

If you're smart and buy fruit and veggies when they are in season and on sale, your grocery bill shouldn't be any higher than a carnivore. Yes, the pre-made meals, like products from Amy's Kitchen, can be pricey. However, you can make stuffed peppers with rice, beans, peppers, and some seasoning for a whole lot less than picking up a roast for the family.

6. "Do you just eat salad all the time?"

Sure, I enjoy a bowl filled with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, corn, cheese and some crunchy croutons. No, I don't have this for every meal. You can still have pizza, burritos, and french fries. Just remember to keep it in moderation.

7. "You know you're still killing plants"

To this, I just roll my eyes. My dad always told me to pick my battles, and this is not one worth putting effort into.

8. "What are you going to eat?"

It is considerate when people ask what I am going to eat when we are picking a restaurant. Almost any place has something that doesn't have meat on it. If they don't, I've never been denied the request to exclude the meat in my dish. I'll get the chicken alfredo sans chicken or the salad without the bacon.

9. "Just take the meat off the pizza"

Two words. Meat. Juices.

10. "So do you eat eggs or drink milk?"

The confusion with this question probably comes from the growing population of vegans. I also understand the confusion on the fact that, if the egg was fertilized, it would have been a chicken. I also use my response to number one with this question.

11. "Do you think you'll ever switch back?"

Honestly, I don't know. I can't predict the future but I am happy with my lifestyle choice. I feel good, I'm working toward my health goals and I don't see a reason to start eating meat right now.