Many people are interested in going vegan but aren’t sure where to begin. The process is a lot easier than you might think, but it can take some time to get accustomed to the change in lifestyle. This article will give you tips for transitioning to a new vegan diet.
Get rid of the old . Before you start buying new foods and cooking from scratch, get rid of all the processed food in your kitchen pantry and refrigerator. Replace it with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans and other healthy options.
Think big picture. You don’t have to become an overnight vegetarian or vegan if you don’t want to — it’s better if you don’t have unrealistic expectations about what it means to be a vegan or vegetarian. If you’re going cold turkey on animal products, be prepared for some cravings and temptations that may not even be related to food (for example, leather shoes or leather seats in a car).
Start with breakfast: Typically, breakfast is one of the easiest meals for someone who is transitioning to a vegan diet because many breakfast options already exist that do not include meat or eggs. Oatmeal, toast, and rice cakes all make good options for someone who wants to start their day with something that is vegan.
Trying different varieties of plant-based protein can also help you get used to this new way of eating. Some people have trouble adjusting to beans or soy products, so doing some research on alternative sources may help you find a type of protein that works for you.
Eat healthy snacks between meals if you get hungry. This is especially important if you’re cutting out meat altogether because meat is high in protein. Your body needs protein to function properly, so make sure that you eat some type of snack every few hours to keep your energy up throughout the day.
Susan Kowal
Susan Kowal is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor/advisor, and health enthusiast.