Making the Switch

Like any major lifestyle change, transitioning will take time, effort, and dedication. Making the decision to become veg is a journey that is your own, and all the decisions you make about your diet and lifestyle-whether you choose to do it gradually or right away-are yours.

The best way to succeed in adopting a new diet and lifestyle is to keep an open mind and to avoid being judgemental-of both yourself and others. Celebrate your small victories, and do not beat yourself up over any slips you may have or mistakes you may make.

If you are interested in the veg lifestyle-whether it be for the animals, the environment, for your health, or for all of these reasons, education is always key.

How to get started

While you may be very passionate about this choice, make sure to take the time to prepare and educate yourself on this decision in order to do it successfully. Remember, going veg is not something that has to happen overnight. It can be a gradual process, where you can take small steps to eventually reach your goal of being completely plant-based.

These include making the decision to stop buying animal-based products, lessening your overall consumption of meat and dairy, dedicating one day a week to being veg (such as “Meatless Mondays”), and many more!

Going at your own pace and learning along the way are important ways to ensure you remain healthy and satisfied enough to avoid resorting to old habits.

Getting family on board

Whether you are in the process of becoming veg, or already are, it is a good idea to let your family and loved ones know about your decision.

For many, the idea of not consuming any animal products is a new concept and as there are many negative portrayals of plant-based eating in the media, easing the potential shock of those around you will more likely keep you and your relatives on the same page.

While some family members may be curious and ask questions, others may not understand or approve, and that is okay. Allow them to come to you in their own time and be there to answer any questions or correct any misconceptions that they may have about the diet.

Shifting to a veg lifestyle

Since being veg goes beyond diet and is an overall lifestyle, it is important to keep in mind that animals are not only abused and killed for food, but also for clothing, beauty products, accessories and more. It is always a good idea to research brands before supporting them in any way.

Luckily, this has become much easier over time, and there are now convenient ways to check if a brand is cruelty-free, such as Leaping Bunny, which is a free app allowing consumers to scan any product’s barcode to find out if the particular brand tests on animals or not.