If you feel that the time has come to do something good for your health, the environment and the animals, that is, if you want to change your diet and turn to veganism, pay a little attention to the following hints and tips. They are very simple and are sure to guide you through your transition smoothly.
1
Do it gradually
If you try to make the transition overnight, it is very likely to turn into an overwhelming and unpleasant experience. As a result you might find yourself giving up. On the other hand, you can start by eliminating meat and fish from your diet. Once you are comfortable with your new diet, you will feel more prepared to take the next step and eliminate dairy (milk, cheese), eggs and honey. Introducing veganism into your life gradually, will give you time to adjust to this exciting way of life. Soon, you will become an expert at reading products’ ingredients and cooking vegan dishes that will pleasantly surprise even your most skeptical guests.
2
Don’t hesitate to eat out
Most restaurants today offer several vegan options and delicious vegetarian dishes. You might even come across products such as vegan "mozzarella", "chicken" or "kebab". Most of these products are very tasty and can be especially useful during the first few weeks of your transition. Nevertheless, please keep in mind that processed products should be an exception, not the norm. Striving for a wholefood plant – based diet should always be your ultimate goal.
3
Don not be affected by other people’s negativity
One thing is for sure. Uncomfortable comments and questions are bound to come your way. Prepare yourself to respond to these educatively. Most people become defensive about veganism because it threatens their daily habits and current way of life. Try to be understanding and keep in mind that most of us were once in their shoes. Remember, that historically, the most influential individuals, were those who had the courage to challenge the status quo and stand up for what was right. In truth, if anyone should feel uncomfortable about their choices, it should be them, not you.
4
Connect with other vegans
Vegans are a growing community. This gives you the opportunity to join groups on social networks, meet other people, exchange views, experiences and even recipes. Doing so, will assist your transition toward a vegan lifestyle and give you immediate access to everything there is to know about veganism. Remember, this is an ongoing process and there is always more to learn about the means by which we exploit animals, and the products it would be best to avoid.
5
Read food labels carefully
This should become a habit for anyone who consumes products of any kind, but in the case of vegans especially, labels are extremely important. Firstly, this will save you time from having to return products that you would later discover are unsuitable for your diet. In addition, it will help you locate animal products/by-products in foods you never imagined they might be added to.
Fortunately, from a legal point of view, product manufacturers are obligated to highlight allergens, meaning that milk and eggs are easily traced on most packages.
6
Focus on the reasons behind your decision
This might be the most important tip. If at any time you find yourself struggling, remember why you decided to make this change in the first place. Is it because you just wanted to experiment with something new? Or is it because you understand that the demand for meat sentences trillions of innocent animals to death, and that treating sentient beings inhumanely is an immoral act ? For most of us, the decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle comes from the belief that veganism is the most effective way to put an end to animal suffering, environmental degradation and the most prevalent human health issues.
(Source: the guardian)