Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, which consists of no meat or dairy products, is one of the best things you can do for your health and the environment. Here are just a few aspects of transitioning vegan that you may not know:

1. Friends and family may not accept it at first.

If your friends and family are still omnivores, they may not understand why you decided to make this transition. With time, they will understand and possibly even support it. Making sure not to push it onto them and just answering any questions they have is the best way to help them accept it.

2. It probably won't happen overnight.

Cutting meat and dairy completely from your diet is difficult to do overnight. Some people are able to do this with no problem, but a lot of people need more time. Finding the substitutions that work best for you while transitioning is completely fine.

3. Don't be afraid to track nutrients.

Using an app on your phone or computer is the best way to track your nutrients to make sure your body is getting everything it needs. It can be easy to overlook certain nutrients and get into a routine of eating the same things. Also, do not be afraid to take supplements, especially B12, if you notice a pattern of a certain nutrient that is lacking. While eating a vegan diet is healthy and livable, no one is perfect at getting every nutrient necessary.

4. Your body may change due to the new diet.

Since your body gets rid of toxins while transitioning, there may be a few negative side effects at first. These should clear up fairly quickly and the good side effects, such as increased energy, will begin.

5. Eating out can be difficult sometimes.

Unless you are eating at a vegan restaurant, you might have to get creative when ordering. Ask for substitutions if necessary or even see if the chef can prepare an awesome vegan meal that is not featured on the menu.

6. The good with becoming vegan will outweigh any bad.

The health benefits and knowing that you are saving the lives of animals outweighs the few bumps in the road to maintaining a vegan lifestyle.