Gradual vs Cold Turkey: My Journey to Vegetarianism and Veganism
Are you considering making a change to your diet and lifestyle to become vegetarian or vegan? This article shares my personal journey, including the challenges and benefits of both gradual and cold turkey approaches. Understanding the different methods and their potential impact on your health and the environment can help you make an informed decision.
From Chicken to No Meat
My journey to vegetarianism began gradually, much like a seedling growing into a tree. I decided to give up chicken first as a way to ease into the change. I realized that the taste of chicken can often be enhanced by its seasonings, which allowed me to cook chickpeas, vegetables, and potatoes with similar flavors and still find satisfaction.
After the chicken went, beef was the next hurdle. Replacing hamburgers with bean or veggie burgers was a breeze, as I often focused on the fixings rather than the meat itself. The fact that I love the flavors and textures of these alternatives made the transition much easier.
Then came the most daunting challenge: giving up pork products like sausages, tacos, and ribs. However, I found ways to make these meals enjoyable. Lentil sausages seasoned with fennel tasted much like real pork sausages, making the transition less daunting. Shiitake bacon also proved to be a fantastic substitute, tasting just like the real thing yet being simpler to prepare.
Going Cold Turkey: From Vegetarian to Vegan
My struggle with dairy products culminated in a cold turkey approach to becoming vegan. After 9 years as a cheese-eating vegetarian, I attempted and failed to be vegan several times. However, after the fifth attempt, I succeeded in eliminating dairy completely. A major motivation for me was my participation in CrossFit and a desire to improve my athletic performance. Removing dairy from my diet and body has had a profound impact on my health and overall well-being.
The Benefits of Vegetarianism and Veganism
Becoming a vegetarian can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health. I fully withdrew my support from the meat industry and began to see the pollution and animal suffering more clearly. This realization made it easy for me to commit to a plant-based diet and never look back. Now, I am grateful for the flexibility and satisfaction I have in my food choices, knowing that I am no longer supporting harmful industries.
As a vegan, my health has improved dramatically. I have become a CrossFit athlete and received praise from my doctor. My skin is clear and glowing, and I no longer need moisturizer, which is an unexpected side effect of healthy eating. I feel more physically capable and experience better mental balance and sleep. The transition to a vegan lifestyle has enabled me to pursue a wide range of activities with renewed vigor and confidence.
Key Takeaways and Further Reading
As my favorite yoga teacher once advised, “Don’t give up cold turkey” if gradual changes seem more manageable. However, if you are ready for a significant change, going cold turkey can be incredibly rewarding. If you are seeking more information on the how-to and health benefits of a vegan diet, I highly recommend Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, a straightforward guide to adopting a whole-food, plant-based diet.