Wait... What? It's true. You could easily become a meat-eating vegetarian or vegan. Many people flirt with the idea of becoming vegetarian or vegan for a variety of reasons. They love animals, they want to lose weight and/or improve their health, they hope to play their part in improving our environment, etc. Going vegetarian or vegan can be like going on a diet... Sure, you're motivated at first, you've made your New Year's Resolution, you've purchased all the right books, etc. Then, like any other diet, you cave after you go to a party and someone waves that huge, gorgeous slice of double chocolate fudge cake under your nose. Then, you feel as if all of your hard work was a waste, and you fall back into old routines. Hey, you are not alone! It happens to the best of us.
In an earlier post, I mentioned having had fish a few times in my first year after becoming vegetarian. Sure I felt guilty, but man my brother-in-law fixes a delectable fresh fish gumbo! My mouth waters just thinking about it! I've also been known to guiltily eat a fish fillet from McDonalds, even knowing that they are on their way to depleting Alaskan Pollock in the process. I'm human. I also mentioned in a prior post that I have not had red meat, fowl, etc. at all in over 2 years. It surprises people when I say that I don't miss it, but I've had years to find great, tasty alternatives. That's what this blog is about. Sharing tips, recipes, favorite finds, and facts about a vegetarian/vegan way of life in order to save you a little bit of time at the end of the day.
For every year that you eat vegetarian or vegan, you save over 100 animals. That's nothing to sneeze at! If you want to eat meat, fine. I have provided posts that tell you how to make an informed decision on where to buy your meat/dairy that improves your health, the environment, and gives animals a better life/death. But why not go vegetarian or vegan a few days a week? Most of us indulge on the weekends in foods and drinks that are not good for us... Maybe use Mon-Wed as your "healthy" days. Cut meat (and dairy if possible!). I guarantee you'll lose weight, you will improve your health, and you will still be saving lives. You'll also be trying new foods that you will love! Life is about new experiences. When was the last time you challenged yourself to try something out of your every day life?
PETA has a great, FREE, vegetarian starter kit. They also have a 30-day pledge that will give you a great challenge to try new recipes, look at our world differently, and give you the opportunity to see how great you feel after your body has cleansed the animal products out. Remember, just a few days a week can improve your health and save lives and a depleting environment. Flirt with vegetarianism. Yes, you CAN have your cake, er meat, and eat it too!
Love the post! I think it's very important to stress that everyone can make a difference, even if they're not vegan or vegetarian. Like Food Inc says, every dollar is a vote. Take the time to think about what you purchase and what you eat. It will make such an enormous difference.
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