Are you planning on going vegan?
Changing habits can pose a lot of trials and challenges in the process. It can be even harder if it’s a habit that you enjoy, but it’s harmful to your body. This also tends to be the case when changing some eating habits, especially with food choices.
Switching to a vegan diet can come with many reasons, either for health or conscience. Whichever motivates you, there is a way to make the shift easier and more bearable. Today, we look at these vegan tips to help you take a step towards a new lifestyle.
1. Go at Your Own Pace
It’s crucial to remember that change doesn’t happen overnight. The same applies to changing your habits and food choices. It’s best to take it one step at a time instead of eliminating certain foods immediately.
Instead of rushing to make it happen, take it at a slow pace. You can do this by starting small first, taking off certain food items from your menu bit by bit.
For instance, you can start removing red meat from your diet, and then you work from there. You can even lessen your intake every week until you stop eating it completely.
When making this transition, focus on yourself and be conscious of what is around you. You don’t need to announce or brag about it. Instead, take control and stay firm with your choices.
With this approach, you have the means to exercise mindfulness. It’s good practice to pay closer attention to your food actions and what you should avoid.
2. Find a Partner
Having a partner to accompany you on your journey will make the transition much easier. In this case, you need a partner that can help you push through with your shift in diet. They can help you watch your food choices, give you the needed support, and even make the change with you.
Having a like-minded companion can help you maintain focus. This way, you have lesser chances of giving up your food and lifestyle goals. You can further this by joining a vegan support group to reinforce your conviction.
This approach gives you a crucial advantage in succeeding with your ventures. That factor is accountability.
With it, you can improve and focus on your goals. This also allows you to measure your success and progress with the shift towards a vegan diet.
3. Learn About Alternative Protein Sources
One of the main concerns of people shifting to a vegan lifestyle is getting enough nutrients. Some people believe that meat is the only source of certain nutritional benefits. This is where you need to expand your horizons when it comes to food choices.
In this case, you now veer away from animal-based foods or products such as dairy or eggs. For this to work out, consider formulating a plant-based protein diet.
The first ones that would come to the list of options include the use of chickpeas and lentils. Other options include peanuts, quinoa, and almonds. Soy stands out as one of the richest sources of protein, which makes tofu a versatile ingredient in any dish.
The good thing about tofu is that it works well as a meat substitute. You can create meat dishes where tofu takes the place of the meat. Explore your options and find interesting recipes to try while fulfilling your protein needs.
4. Explore Other Food Items
The vegan diet focuses on vegetables and fruits as your daily staple. This does not deprive you at all. In fact, it even allows for more tasty dishes and treats that you can even enjoy.
This is where you start exploring other ways to prepare your dishes. You would need to learn how to cook vegetables with tasty recipes such as stir fry or salad.
You can also venture towards fruit smoothies for tasty beverages. You can even top your smoothies with fruits like bananas, strawberries, and blueberries. For extra flavor and health, add chia seeds and consume your smoothie bowl.
Mushrooms are also a nutritious food item to add to your new vegan diet. Adaptogenic mushrooms can increase your energy levels and boost your immune system. You can enjoy them in different forms and products, such as drinks and extracts.
You may also include white mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms in your diet. White mushrooms are the most common in the supermarket, making them an easy addition. Shiitake mushrooms work well as a great meat substitute and can also retain flavor when cooked with garlic and ginger.
Other mushrooms that you can try out include reishi mushrooms and chanterelle mushrooms. The former has this distinct red color and has its use as part of herbal medicine.
Meanwhile, chanterelle mushrooms have a delightful flavor and texture. These mushrooms can work well as food toppings.
There are some foods you should avoid. In this case, you should watch out for animal-based ingredients. This is not limited to meat as it also extends to other products like dairy and gelatin.
5. Remember Your Goals
Make sure to remember the goals you set when making the transition. Take note of why you chose to change your diet and lifestyle. As you go through this journey, let these goals linger and run within your head.
However, it’s crucial to note that you must have a realistic and healthy goal. You might be doing this for health reasons, or you might be doing this to save innocent wildlife. This goal will keep you motivated throughout your transition to a vegan lifestyle.
Try These Vegan Tips to Help with the Journey
Going vegan is not only a step out of your comfort zone. It’s a tough endeavor to change your lifestyle and food choices. However, with these vegan tips, you’re sure to have an easier time pushing through with your change.
Veganism is only one piece to a larger, healthier lifestyle. Want to know how else you can improve your life? Check out our nutritional wellness guides for more tips on getting a better lifestyle.