Whatever the reason (health, allergies, love of animals or the environment), you want to become a vegetarian/vegan, it is a difficult task to change your eating habits, especially if you have followed a meat-based diet all your life. But it’s not impossible and it’s worth a try! Try these suggestions to help your transition:
Make a Recipe List: Compile a list of 20 recipes that you feel comfortable with – cooking and eating. You can get a lot of recipes from friends, cookbooks, or the Internet. Make a short list of 20 vegetarian/vegan dishes from various cuisines. Choose the ones that don’t involve elaborate cooking because you don’t want to get discouraged before you even start. Choose dishes that use ingredients that you are familiar with and that are readily available. Start testing each one, one by one. You will most likely be left with only half the number you started with. Changing your diet should be satisfying to your palate only then will you continue. Sometimes it’s also about acquired taste. Be patient and keep looking for more. You will have a list of perfect recipes just with trial and error.
Change one meal at a time: Once you have a list of delicious recipes, it’s time to make a meal completely vegetarian/vegan. Start with dinner. Even if you’re eating out, be sure to only order a vegetarian/vegan dinner. You have to use your will power. You will start to notice the difference in a few weeks. Your digestion will improve, you’ll sleep better, you’ll have more energy the next morning, and of course you’ll notice weight loss. These motivating factors will influence you to shift your focus to the next meal: breakfast. There are a number of nutritionally balanced breakfast recipes that are easy to prepare. Do a good research. Gradually, as you’ve adjusted to the switch from breakfast to dinner, you may not even crave your usual diet at lunch. When it’s time to turn your attention to lunch, start by replacing four lunches a week with your new dietary preference, continue a few meals with your old diet until you don’t crave them.
Important aspects: Choose recipes that suit your taste, that are nutritionally balanced and satiating. Special emphasis on Vit. D, B 12, Calcium and protein because vegan diets lack or are deficient in these essential nutrients. Fortified foods should be included in your daily meals. Monitor your health parameters. Plan your meals according to your physical requirements, lifestyle, age, and exertion levels. Always consult a nutritionist/doctor for guidance in planning a balanced diet. Try not to rush to change your diet, if you want a permanent change then go slowly, plan well.
If you gradually change your habits, you are more likely to stick with them. Good luck!
