Coffee Bean – Kennel

Making the decision to go vegetarian is half the battle; for many new vegetarians, though, there is something of a lull after the big decision is made.  This usually comes as the result of just no knowing where to start.  And that is the problem this quick-start guide is designed to resolve.  In these few simple steps you’ll be well on your way to transitioning through the worst of it, and coming out on the other end, loud and proud to be a vegetarian.

Quick-Start Guide To Vegetarianism

1. Research first.  This may sound like a chore, but since you’re interested in becoming a vegetarian, the chances are very good that you’ll welcome some interesting reading; and on the internet, there is lots of it available.  You don’t have to try to read it all, but take some time for some surfing and pick a couple of good vegetarian sites that you connect with.  Read up and get advice from others who’ve made the switch, and learn also about the staple foods of a vegetarian diet.
2. What’s your type?  Part of what you’ll read is information about the different types of vegetarians – some are semi-vegetarians eating some meat, others are plant-based but consume dairy and eggs, others are fully vegan vegetarians who shun all animal-based foods and products altogether.  They’re all good, but they may not all fit into your lifestyle.  You’ll want to decide what type of vegetarian lifestyle you want to maintain.
3. Tell people.  You’re making a great, healthy choice and you should be proud of that.  Tell the friends, family, and coworkers close to you; expect some “feedback” but simply ask them to respect your decision and be supportive.  If they can’t do that, ask them to at least keep their opinions to themselves; after all, you’ve already researched it and you know what you’re about J
4. Break it in.  Do yourself a favor and allow yourself a break-in period.  Decide what kind of a break-in works for you best – cold-turkey or a gradual switch-over.  You might decide to replace only “x” number of meals at first, or maintain a semi-vegetarian diet for a while, then transition into a full vegetarian or vegan diet.
5. Plan to crave.  You probably have been eating meat a long time, unless you were raised as a vegetarian; so eating meat and WANTING to eat meat is probably pretty well engraved in you.  It won’t be that way forever, but it will happen and it will subside over time.  Plan ahead for cravings and make a plan for dealing with them (a good, hearty, dark been dish might help, or a veggie burger or chili dish that will make it hard to miss the meat).  Don’t give up if you slip up, either.  It happens to a lot of transitioning vegetarians, and it’s no good reason to quit.
6. Have your favorites.  It is actually quite easy to turn a lot of traditional dishes into vegetarian dishes with a few simple switches (like replacing beans or lentils for meat in a chili of dish, or swapping tofu for chicken….).  You’ll enjoy your experience more if you allow yourself the freedom to keep the old favorites, and even the less-than favorites.
7. Expand your horizons.  Keep the old, but welcome the new.  There are TONS of great vegetarian recipes out there; all you have to do is try them.  You might even find yourself becoming very excited with all the new flavors and options.
8. Think positive and Get support.  It may be a challenge at times, but most things worth doing are, aren’t they?  Think positive, and connect with other vegetarians online and off who will be happy to help you through the transition phase and beyond.

M.E. Ward enjoys blogging about ways people can obtain their Masters in Health Administration.