6 Simple Steps for Transitioning to a Vegan Diet
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In recent years, veganism has become all the rage - and for a good reason. Aside from being extremely beneficial health-wise, people have realized its potential when it comes to preserving our planet. With many celebrities declaring themselves as vegans and a shift in our relationship towards animals, more and more people are transitioning to a vegan diet. However, more often than not, these attempts end up being just that - attempts. And while each one is a powerful step in the right direction, it's evident that a bit of planning and perseverance is needed to truly transform your diet into a plant-based one. If you are reading this article, it's highly likely that you have given veganism a thought. So, without further ado, here are six simple tips that should encourage you to persist in your mission.
What is Veganism?
For a radical change to become viable, it is imperative to thoroughly educate yourself on the topic. Since losing yourself in the current trends is easy, knowing what you are getting yourself into before going on a vegan shopping spree is of the utmost importance.
Simply put, a vegan diet implies excluding all foods that come from animals. Not only does this include meat and fish, but dairy, eggs, honey, and various other foods that include animal products or byproducts.
For many people, veganism is much more than a diet. It's a lifestyle that revolves around not eating, using, wearing, or buying any animal products. Your leather shoes? Not so vegan. That silk dress too. Even many cosmetic products and household items aren't acceptable according to this philosophy.
Why should you transition?
Transitioning to a vegan diet will be much more feasible if you have good reasons and motivation to implement such a significant change into your routine. While there are many reasons why everyone could benefit from a plant-based diet, we will remind you of the essential ones.
1
A vegan diet will keep you healthy
According to research, turning your meals into their plant-based counterparts can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and even cancer.
2
A plant-based diet can save the planet
It's no secret that planet Earth has been going through a rough patch because of humans. However, not many people know that a vegan diet could reverse the damage and significantly lower our carbon footprint.
3
Veganism is animal-friendly
Most of us have pets that we adore - dogs, cats, hamsters, fish. But we shouldn't forget about our other friends - cows, pigs, sheep, bees, dolphins - the list could go on forever.
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Omnivore – vegetarian - vegan
Every beginning is tricky if you rush into it unprepared. When it comes to smoothly transitioning to a vegan diet, taking one step at a time is essential. This means you shouldn't go cold turkey on animal products, as this will likely leave you craving those very things you are trying to exclude.
An excellent way to make your transition less troublesome is to introduce one vegan meal per week. Once you conquer vegan Wednesdays (or any other day), you can level up to one vegan meal per day.
In the meantime, work on eating more veggies and try to cut back on meat. Don't exclude everything at once, as this will shock your body and mind.
Go on a mindful shopping spree
Sticking to a vegan diet when you're hungry and all you have in the fridge are chicken nuggets isn't easy. To improve your chances, it might be a good idea to go shopping. However, try not to get overly excited at the store. Overstocking on perishables and groceries you don't know what to do with isn't good for the environment, your motivation, or your wallet.
Start with foods you know and love and introduce new vegan products, such as cold-pressed juices, gradually. Look for inspiration online and, most importantly, be open to broadening your horizons.
Don’t forget about protein
Many people claim that a plant-based diet didn't work out for them because they never felt fully satisfied or energized. While it is possible that there are people who simply cannot click with this kind of dietary regimen, it's more likely that they didn't do it right.
In this case, the main problem for most is inadequate protein intake. If you don't balance your meals properly, you could easily end up deprived of essential nutrients. This is especially important for people who work out. Veganism and exercise go well together only if your body is getting enough protein and other nutrients it needs. Tofu, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, and quinoa are just some of the biggest plant-based protein sources everyone should include in their diet.
Focus on healthy food
Even though many popular snacks are vegan, basing your diet on them won't do you or the planet much good. When transitioning to a vegan diet, it's vital to focus on health. Balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, healthy fats, grains, and fruits will keep you satisfied and motivated for longer.
Keep your meals fun
Boredom is one of the most common reasons people quit their plant-based diets after only a few weeks or months. And it's understandable - in a world that revolves around animal products, it's no wonder why people can't find the inspiration to spice things up.
Again, you can find many exciting ideas online. However, if experimenting in the kitchen isn't your cup of tea, you can always subscribe to a vegan meal plan. This will eliminate the age-old question of 'What should I eat today?' and allow you to adapt to a plant-based diet more efficiently.
Nurture a positive attitude
When transitioning to a vegan diet, the best thing you can do to keep yourself motivated is to adopt a positive mindset. Don't punish yourself when you give in to cravings. Instead, celebrate your efforts and reward yourself with delicious plant-based treats!