1. Cutting out bread, meat, and dairy really is not all that hard.

I know what you're thinking. "I love pizza! I need cheese like I need air. Chicken nuggets! How could I possibly do this?" Believe me, I was there, too. But listen to me, it can be done. Just don't put all this crazy pressure on yourself, and reassure yourself of the reasons you're making this change, whether it be nutritional, moral, or environmental. Whatever it is, you can do it.

2. There are gluten free/vegan versions of EVERYTHING.

Seriously. Everything. I went grocery shopping and I was able to get vegan and gluten free bread, pizza dough, pasta, yogurt, cheese, soup, and ice cream.

And you know what else...

3. It actually tastes good!

Yes. It's true. As a genuine New York City Food Snob™, I can confirm that gluten free and vegan grilled cheese really does taste as good as the normal thing. Just gotta get the right brands, especially of the cheese. Pro tip - it tastes even better with some hot sauce!

4. You will get enough protein.

Beans. Leafy greens. Nuts. Tofu. Honestly, the whole myth that you can't get enough protein while eating vegan is just crazy. And even going gluten free, you can have quinoa or chickpea pasta, which is my personal favorite, which is LOADED with natural, plant-based protein! Also, nutritional yeast. The stuff is like instant-umami flavor-blast powder! Also, it's totally packed with protein!

5. I've honestly never felt better!

Of course, eating this way isn't for everyone. Nothing in life is one-size-fits-all. For me, though, my body is running so much more smoothly, and I feel healthier and cleaner than I ever have before. I'm eating less, I'm hungry less often, I'm sleeping better, and I have far fewer headaches. I'm most definitely going to keep eating like this for as long as I can keep it up.