I've been a vegetarian for about a year in a half and it's definitely a significant part of who I am and my relationships with people—it sounds dumb, but it's true. It has affected everything from where I eat with my friends to my political views.
One of my parents was a vegetarian for 15 years and the other one barely eats meat, so the transition to being a vegetarian was not very difficult for me. I definitely think everyone should considering reducing the amount of meat and fish they eat for multitude of reasons. Here's why I eliminated all meat from my diet:
1. I'm not a picky eater
If you're going to eliminate many dietary options, liking many foods is helpful. I have found less than 5 foods that I can't stand and I'm willing to try anything, so I don't feel limited by being a vegetarian.
2. Global warming
Vegetarians have a smaller environmental footprint. This is because the production of meat in the United States releases an enormous amount of greenhouse gases—such as methane from cows. The average person has an environmental footprint well above the sustainable size, so I wanted to do what I could to reduce my impact on the environment.
3. I don't support industrial farming—because of corporations
I know that many vegetables are produced in industrial farms, but meat production is particularly bad. Only a handful of corporations have control over the meat industry, putting small farmers out of business.
4. I don't support industrial farming— because of the treatment of animals
Pigs, chickens, and cows are coped up in small areas, unable to graze. Even "free range" animals do not have much space. This increases the risk of animals transmitting disease— animals are practically swimming in their own waste. Many cows are not feed grass, which does not work well with their digestive systems. These conditions do not bode well for human health either.
5. Added Hormones
Sure, I can control the meat in my house. You can make sure that the meat you buy is hormone free, but when go out to eat you usually don't know what you're eating. Added hormones are not great for anyone's health, so I decided to eliminate the chance of consuming any food with added hormones.
6. Being a vegetarian has forced me to make healthier choices
For example, when I go out to eat, I'll choose a veggie burger over chicken fingers. I feel healthier and better about myself.In general, I am so much happier as a vegetarian. I've always cared about the environment and small businesses now I feel like I'm practicing what I preach. Farming vegetables has its issues, but knowing that my diet has a smaller impact on the environment and lessens support for corporate America is fulfilling.
