More and more people are turning to a plant-based way of eating in order to help the environment or live a healthier lifestyle. However, starting with this type of diet can be challenging, especially if you’re used to eating large quantities of meat and dairy. Even if your diet consists of mainly other things, switching to a vegan way of eating requires some planning and preparation. So for that reason, here are some tips that will make this transition easier and more effortless.
Do your research
Researching a vegan diet might be challenging, which is why it’s important to use various sources of information. Browsing only vegan communities might be of great help, but keep in mind that many people in such online spaces tend to be biased toward certain issues. Therefore, choosing multiple sources will give you a clearer picture of what it’s like to eat a plant-based diet and live a lifestyle that goes with it.
Start slowly
Switching to a plant-based diet all at once might seem like a logical step, but it’s actually better to start slow and see what happens. For example, removing dairy products from your diet while sticking to meat (or vice versa) will show you how to function without certain products you used to eat on a daily basis. Removing only one group of products will give you more freedom to adjust to a new lifestyle without being too extreme. If you’re ideologically swayed, you might feel the need to stop eating every animal product out there, but that will also push you in an unfamiliar direction way too soon. Instead, try to opt for a vegetarian or pescatarian diet first, until you find your ground.
Be ready to grow and learn
The best way to stay comfortable in your plant-based diet is to constantly grow and learn. Not using eggs, dairy and meat as your diet staples means you’ll have to discover new ways of replacing them. This journey is the true joy of eating a plant-based diet: discovering the nutritional power of plants all the time. The Internet is full of valuable info, so reading articles at the Satia Nutrition blog will surely keep you informed and entertained. Every person has the innate desire to evolve, and a plant diet fits perfectly in that narrative.
Know how to talk about it
Let’s be real, some people may not agree with your lifestyle change. Although that should never concern you, you should get ready to answer questions or fight off unsolicited opinions and advice. Some people will be rude, while others will be genuinely confused, worried and also curious. It’s important to differentiate between these and act accordingly. Being preachy and judgmental yourself isn’t the right way to have meaningful discussions. But also, if someone starts being plain dismissive and rude, be sure to stand your ground.
Embrace your new diet and enjoy it
At the end of the day, life is short, so you have to enjoy every moment. So, embrace your new diet and find joy in it. Not eating certain foods is a sure way toward discovering new tastes and recipes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new fruits and vegetables, feel free to play with different blends of tastes because that’s where the true fun of a plant-based diet lies.
Conclusion
Starting a healthier, new diet is a big and brave step that deserves to be encouraged and celebrated. Still, it’s important to constantly learn and do your research, and being experimental and open-minded is also a huge asset. Finally, it’s essential to remember that fully embracing a new diet is the sure step toward enjoying it.
