Vegetarian In 14 Easy Steps

Jun 19, 2018 by apost team

A vegetarian diet has been recognized as a positive change for those looking to eat healthier. Though it is difficult to imagine life without consuming meat, it is obtainable by following a few simple steps. 

The best way to form a new habit is to simply start. Cutting meat from your diet is a big change and it doesn't need to be done all at once. Choose one day per week and decide to abstain from meat.

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Once you are meat-free a single day out of the week, try to stay away from meat for the weekdays. During the work week, remain focused on your vegetarian diet and try some new recipes.

If avoiding meat for the work week or a whole day is too large of a transition, start with one meal. Eating meals without meat will require you to find new recipes and foods to eat. Try a meatless lunch and experiment with your new options.

A big milestone in your transition to a vegetarian diet is the fact that you no longer keep meat in your refrigerator or freezer. Once you have worked through your current stock of meat products, simply stop purchasing it from the grocery store or butcher. 

When you are consuming meat with nearly every meal, a lot of the food you eat will revolve around that protein. Try to find an ingredient that you had never thought to cook with before and find or create a recipe based on it. 

One of the easiest ways to fall out of your new habit is when you are in a rush. Find 2-3 recipes that are quick and easy to make when you're on the run. Overnight oats are a great option.

Social media is a fantastic source of vegetarian inspiration. You will find recipes and experiences similar to your own.

Use calorie trackers such as My Fitness Pal to keep track of what you are eating. With less meat, the calories are less dense. You will need to eat more overall to keep your calorie and nutrient count the same. 

Dining out can be a challenge as a vegetarian. Luckily, most menus are posted online. Check ahead or give the restaurant a call and ask what will work for your diet. 

Eating vegetarian will not only provide you with new ingredients and recipes, you may even find your new favorite restaurant. Seek out the vegetarian-friendly restaurants near you for some new flavors!

If you miss your favorite burger, try a mock-meat. New technology has gotten the tastes and textures closer than ever. 

Always have a vegetarian snack on hand and ready to go. You never know when hunger will strike! 

It sure is uncomfortable when you're invited to dinner and all they cook is meat based recipes! Offer to bring your own vegetarian dish. 

Finally, make sure you realize that the change you are making is positive. Be easy on yourself when you make mistakes!

Transitioning to a vegetarian diet will be a difficult but positive change. Let us know what you think about our 14 tips and pass this along to friends that are interested in making the change.