Whether switching over from a meat-eating or vegetarian lifestyle, deciding to live animal-free is a big step. Going vegan means becoming more cautious and inquisitive on evenings out, and perhaps even abstaining from buying a painfully tempting pair of shoes every now and then. But it is important not to let these factors discourage you from taking the leap. The following steps will help you before, during, and after making the switch.
1. Baby Steps
If you don't think that you can realistically go vegan overnight, don't. It is more beneficial to take a year or two to go all the way than it is to go 'cold-turkey', so to speak. Instead, set goals for yourself and take smaller steps. If you eat meat, you may want to slowly phase it out of your diet over the course of 6 months before dropping dairy and eggs as well. This way, not only does your body have time to adjust, but you do too. After all, no significant change in diet is effective if you resent the new foods you can eat and pine after what you cannot.
2. Research Food and Nutritional Replacements
Before you officially convert to veganism, make sure that you have done your research. Consult your GP for advice on nutritional supplements you may need to take; everyone's body chemistry is different. Also, consider where your protein, calcium, and essential vitamins will come from - though it is easy to find replacements, you should have them on hand and ready to go before dropping a number of foods out of your diet.
3. Give Your Palette Time to Adjust
While there are numerous vegan options out there - such as imitation meats and cheeses - not everything is going to satisfy you from day one. You need to have a certain level of acceptance that your bagel with "cream cheese" may not taste 100% genuine a week after you've stopped eating dairy. Over time, however, you will adjust and discover that vegan replacements are just as delicious, if not better, than the so-called "real" thing!
4. Read the Ingredients
There are three words that often apply to being vegan: you'd be surprised. Animal by-products are hidden in so many different foods. Things like pre-packaged meals, breads, and even most breakfast cereals contain non-vegan ingredients. Educate yourself by checking out a list of common animal ingredients - many of them are chemicals, or are involved during the process of making a certain food, rather than being immediately present within it. When it comes to dining out, don't be afraid to ask questions! Any quality establishment will be willing to accommodate allergies or dietary restrictions.
Last, but not least, remember that there are countless sources of information to help you if you need it. Websites like GoVegan.net are priceless to novices and veterans alike.
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