Five Tips for New Vegetarians
Making the lifestyle change to become a vegetarian continues to be a popular choice, with celebrities from Paul McCartney to Morrissey loud and proud about their meat-free diets. It’s not just those in the public eye who have made the commitment to stop eating meat and with reasons for making the change ranging from animal rights to environmental factors to the cost of meat people from all walks of life are adapting their diet. If you are new to vegetarianism, these five tips will help you go the distance.
Eat a Varied Diet
When making the change to a vegetarian diet it can be easy to focus on what you are missing. Instead, change your mindset so you are thinking about what you can eat. This is an opportunity to switch up your diet and introduce new foods and flavors, so see it as the adventure it is and add exciting new recipes to your culinary repertoire. Vegetarianism is fun!
Remember Why You Became a Vegetarian
Whatever your reason for becoming a vegetarian, you made the decision based on your morals or needs. If you are ever tempted to stray back to eating meat, think about why you made the lifestyle change in the first place. Was it for the planet? Health reasons? Because you are an animal lover? It can be helpful to make a list of why you became vegetarian and refer to it when you faulter.
Be Prepared
One of the main reasons new vegetarians struggle is because they don’t plan. As the old saying goes, ‘Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.’ If you are eating out or going to a friend’s house for dinner, let them know your dietary requirements beforehand. Call ahead to restaurants or look online for their menus so you know what choices they have ahead of arrival.For example, searchWhere can I get vegetarian food near me for local options. By doing your research you will find a wealth vegetarian and vegan friendly eateries all over the globe, including well-known branded restaurants.
Be Proud of Your Decision
Be proud of your decision to be a vegetarian – wear it like a badge of honor! For many vegetarians, their choice is a huge part of their identity. If you can adopt this mindset, you will find it easier to follow the vegetarian lifestyle you have chosen. You might also adapt other parts of your life to complement your decision, such as using cruelty-free cosmetics if you are vegetarian for the animals or swapping to an electric vehicle if you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint.
Ignore the Haters
There will always be people who tease you for your choice to become vegetarian. Don’t let them get to you – they’re not worth it.Remember, this is your decision. Own it!
When you first become a vegetarian, it can feel challenging to follow a new diet, but it soon feels less difficult and becomes second nature. Stick with it – it five tips do get easier. Promise!