12 things I'd like to know before moving to veganism

The transition from traditional foods to a vegetarian and especially vegan - a conscious decision. Everyone has their own reasons: one unfortunate animals, others feel discomfort from eating meat or dairy products, and consider switching to vegetarian food more healthy. And for some it is nothing more than food as a temporary experiment.

Gradually you get used to everything. But there are nuances, of which I would like to know in advance. Perhaps you would change your mind and on May Day celebrations were eating kebab instead of vegetables on the grill. Or, on the contrary, would refuse my mother's favorite burgers a year ago.

1. People will ask you lots of questions

Only worth telling friends, family or colleagues about his decision to become a vegan, in Reply poured stream of questions: why, what, if you can eat it or something and the guilty milk.

Some try to be drawn into the dispute, to impose their views, while you just want to quietly eat up your salad.

At first, you do not have all the answers and you're not ready for this onslaught. Vegan restaurants have become a second home. And not only because of the menu. Just where you no one will ask what is not!

Eventually, of course, learn to answer confidently, talking quietly. The main thing - to explain that it is your choice and you think he's right. So to avoid protracted disputes much easier.

2. Do not have to starve

A common misconception is that vegans, exhausted and miserable, constantly hungry. But it is far from the truth.

The first time home vegan cuisine is not yet mastered, you go to the cafe and just order a vegan everything that you find, and eat. Half of the salary goes to the salad with tofu, porridge of bulgur and questionable coffee with almond milk.

Then you want some variety. Collect interesting recipes that comes up with itself and become a regular visitor of vegetable specialty stores and supermarket shelves. Now-a-you know exactly what dish you will eat for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

You eat what you like, and until then, until you feel satiety. And sometimes even to overeat.

Sometimes, of course, that you remain hungry at a party or event, which does not provide for vegetable products. But it is rather an exception.

3. You'll be ready, even if it did not do before

To do this, there are at least five reasons:

1. You will know exactly what is in front of you vegan dish as cooked it themselves.
2. plenty worthy recipes from plant foods will not leave you indifferent. You will definitely want to cook something!
3. You will have what you want, rather than what is offered by the institution. This is ten times more food.
4. It is more economical. One trip to the restaurant - about 50 carrot cutlets.
5. Homemade food is still delicious.

4. Meals now look a little differently than you're used to

Determination of food is becoming more flexible. Often the usual first, second and compote and a bun for dessert turns into one big bowl from the base (cereals, pasta, soy products), sauce and vegetables: roasted, fresh or stewed.

In practice, the options are many. Soups, main dishes, consisting of a base and a side dish, and dessert - everything is still possible, only this time with a completely different composition.

5. You do not have to be perfect vegan

Sooner or later, you still eat something which contains an invalid component for you. Most likely by accident. But to find it, you do not need to get upset.

It can be boring to ask members of the staff of the availability of milk or eggs in the dish, but it will not give any guarantees. Probably, you even do not know about it.

So you have to accept this fact and come to terms. In the end, it's your informed choice.

6. We'll have to plan every snack in advance

Gradually you find suitable restaurants and cafes, you recognize where they make the best vegan sandwiches. beforehand planIf you will stay close to this institution, or to collect a dinner with him. Planning becomes your best friend, and you do not risk to remain without lunch. It is in your best interest.

By the way, those who have not made friends with the planning, helping to spread the myth of the eternally hungry vegans.

7. You will also plan a trip to a restaurant with friends

Led by friends who love meat of vegan restaurants - bad idea. So you learn to compromise. Fortunately, many institutions offer a vegetarian menu option, which greatly facilitates the life of the company with different food preferences.

Be prepared that the first joint outputs will look like on the show: you and lettuce against the pork knuckle and rib eye steak.

Friends, no matter how good they may be, one way or another will ask you questions and is likely to offer to try a slice of juicy beef. You can go from the return and once bring your dish, they immediately begin to treat your companions.

8. Find alternative vegan favorite dish - you can

In the transition to veganism you give up some of your favorite dishes. Or all. At first, it's scary. However, having dug deeper and having studied hundreds of recipes, you will find an alternative and learn to cook vegan versions of favorite foods, replacing them eggsMeat and milk plant products. Vegan burgers, no matter what anyone said, very tasty.

9. You are open to new products, which are not even known before

When from the diet goes a substantial portion of meat and dairy products, there is room for something new. To diversify the menu, you start to look much more rice, lentils, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers and green peas. We'll have to broaden my horizons and start trying new food for you.

A varied vegetarian or vegan table is not a myth. It is man's desire to eat is interesting, varied and delicious.

10. You will cook the meat for pet

There are aggressive vegans, who categorically do not accept meat lovers. Fortunately, they are not so much. Close people eventually accept your decision, so why should they also suffer from it? Of course, much depends on personal beliefs. However, to rush from one extreme to another is not necessary.

If the husband is crazy about pork cutlets, cooked according to your recipe, do not deprive him of it. You can cook and together, sharing responsibilities. Someone marinating meatAnd someone is preparing a side dish.

11. You have to spend a little more

Unfortunately, vegan foods are expensive. Especially if you are trying to eat varied and often. And if the transition to veganism began to use ethical cosmetics and household cleaning products.

You will find the best deals, compare the range and quality of products, and as a result choose favorites that satisfied on all counts. But the cost will still be little more than before.

12. It's not as difficult as it seems

Refusal of products that we are accustomed to from birth, it seems difficult. But it is not so difficult if you approach it consciously, honestly answer yourself the following questions: "Why do I need it? Am I ready? "

Understanding of veganism can warn against making a wrong decision or, on the contrary, to give confidence in its accuracy. The main thing - to stay true to yourself and do not act against the will and under duress.

see also

• 10 Olivier salad recipes. Including for vegans →
• 14 phrases that can not speak vegans →
• The meat is dangerous and whether to give it up →