Gone Vegan: Why, How, The Struggle.

Hi Everyone & Happy Monday!

Today I’m going to talk about the newest and greatest thing in my life…Being Vegan. Now don’t get me wrong, I haven’t made the transformation fully but I seem to do well most days. For the longest time when I would hear about someone being vegan, I assumed it was because they loved animals and didn’t want to see them being killed for their meat. Little did I know, there’s so much more to it than just that. I’ve watched documentaries before about chickens being jammed into tiny spaces, while being injected with hormones but I never stopped eating meat because of it. That’s why I’m dedicating this blog post to explain more about my decision and the decision you could possibly make for yourself.

Why?

Why be vegan? I have a brother who was vegan most days, I have vegan friends, but why the change for me? After watching the documentary, “What the Health” two weeks ago with Michael and Ryder, I decided to make the change. I’m not going to go into details about what the documentary talks about, but I will tell you that it all makes so much sense. Our bodies aren’t meant to digest chemicals and all of this processed food that companies are pouring money into for us to be bombarded with on television and social networking sites. On every corner of the supermarket you’re going to see chips, cookies, sodas etc. being displayed because that’s what the food industry can make the most money off of. Not to mention, doctors are making a killing off of prescription meds to try and tame all of these diseases rather than cure them. I’ve always been against medication for myself. After having Ryder, the doctors are willing to put you on anti depressants for post partum and I never once took mine. I have many friends and family members who rely on medication for their health but I refuse to put myself into that situation personally.

In addition to everything stated above, I also wanted a lifestyle change that would make me feel better. There’s not a diet in the world that I would stick to…even if it told me I could look like Jennifer Anniston when I’m 50. I NEEDED something that would make me wake up in the morning and feel ready for the day. That’s how I ended up here…eating cucumber slices as I type this.

How?

How do you go Vegan cold turkey? You don’t…or not for me at least. The decision I had made did happen suddenly but I knew it wouldn’t be easy. After making this decision, I immediately went to pinterest/google to start finding recipes and understanding what nutrients I would need to take in to remain healthy. Once I gained all of this information, I began planning different meals and finding replacement options at restaurants. You’re best bet is to never eat out (kidding) but really…that might be the hardest thing. I haven’t been vegan for long but I do recommend taking baby steps and truly make this decision for YOU.

The Struggle.

Last but not least, the struggle. Whether we’re eating a regular diet or we’re on a diet, there’s always a hill to climb. My biggest struggle right now is learning to cook without eggs, not throwing cheese on everything (mainly restaurants, I have dairy free cheese at home) and ensuring that when I go out to eat, butter isn’t being used. Clearly the biggest issue is going out to eat. I’m always on the go, so I do feel like this will always be a struggle for me. Not to mention, milk is used in pretty much everything!

As my journey continues, I will keep everyone updated on the changes that take place <3

Stay Strong & True to Yourself <3

xoxo Angelina