Getting used to my vegan diet?

Question

I started being a vegan today:) And It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, however, i didnt neccssicarly follow ALL the rules. I had a vegan breakfast and vegan lunch at school, then when I got home I made Morning Star chicken nuggets ( which does contain eggs, but im just eating them until i run out ). Then I went to dance, and they had a party because it is the end of the season, so I had a peice of cake. I know I broke my diet a little bit, but what do you think of how my day went considering that this is my first day being a vegan? I know I just can't jump right to it. So this week I'm planning on having a vegan breakfast and lunch, dinner if I have something.

vegans/vegetarians: whe you first started your new diet, did it take you a while to follow the whole diet correctly? If so how long did it take? Or did you just jump right it and never went back?

Expirieced people only please:)

Answer 1

It sounds like you're off to a great start! It can be hard when you're at a party or somewhere that doesn't have vegan options. If you know you're going to be in a social situation with no options, it helps to make some vegan treats to bring along. (Make enough to share -- it's a great way to show people how delicious vegan food can be!)

It did take me awhile to make the transition to a vegan diet. I never really liked milk or scrambled eggs, so it was easy to replace those with soymilk and scrambled tofu. I kept eating things like chocolate bars, Doritos, cheese pizza, etc. for a long time. It took me about 3 months to make the transition.

A few days ago I met someone who went from meat-eater to vegan overnight. I guess it works for some people, but I can't imagine doing that myself!

Answer 2

Oh give up, if you eat star chicken nuggets you're heart isn't set on being a vegan.

Just eat meat and feel no shame.

Answer 3

When I first made the switch, I still had a few raw sesame cookies (with honey) in my freezer, so I had to finish those. Yes, baby steps are fine.. but just remember that you are going to have to eventually turn down these little temptations (cakes and other treats) that are so imbedded in our culture... So next time you're at a dance, a wedding, a birthday party or any other gathering for pleasure, you will simply have to say "no." You shouldn't feel the need to compromise. Ever.

Answer 4

Sounds like you're making a good start. Just do what you can.

I, like you, had it in my mind to start living a vegan lifestyle on X day, but I found out that some of my soy meats had egg and milk in them.

:-(

It happens and it's okay. You might have a craving for cheese or yogurt....it's not the end of the world if you give in to the craving. We're only human after all!

Some people think the transition from vegetarian to vegan is simple, but in a lot of ways, it's almost as tough as going from omni to vegetarian. You are cutting out a part of your normal diet and you have to take time to re-learn how to cook and eat.

You're doing fine. Keep up the good work!

:-D

Answer 5

i jumped right in and never went back (considering i'm starting my third week), however i don't think anything is wrong with finishing what you have in the house because you have already bought it... good job you will be fine and don't worry about that person who said your heart isn't in it cause that is for only YOU to decide. good luck!

Answer 6

I have been a veg. for 14 years and vegan for 5. It is an ongoing process. I mean, I started saying that since I was a vegetarian I could easily give up dairy. Then I realized I couldn't eat sugar and be vegan - then I found out there are vegan sugars and so on. It is always a learned process, so pat yourself on the back for making a choice and stick by it!

It is very, very hard to be perfect, but the important thing is bringing real thought into everything you eat and wear and buy.

A good way to get inspiration is to go to a natural foods store (whole foods or similar) and look around at all your options! Thing of all the things you can eat and cook instead of what you can't! Find vegan restaurants in your area - those are always such a treat. Connect with other people who share your goal. And if you slip one day, get right back to it!

Also, make sure to be an educated vegan. Read up on your nutrition, get a little sunlight everyday for Vit. D, eat flax and nuts for omega fatty acids, yellow/orange veggies (such as carrots) for Beta Carotene which your body turns into Vit A. It is possible to be totally healthy and well fed as a vegan, but take the time to know what you are doing so it is easier. Eat soy, grains, beans, legumes and nuts to get your protein. Greens for iron and B vitamins. A good multivitamin (try vegetarianvitamin.com) can help cover your bases until your are sure you can do it on your own.

Also, one really weird thing I had at first was I wasn't eating enough fat so I started having weird cravings for nasty junk food. Pay attention to your body's needs.

But my single biggest piece of advice: FIND A GOOD NATURAL FOOD STORE! Let them help you! Realize how much really good food is out there and enjoy it!

Answer 7

Why did you tell all the 'strict vegans' on here what you ate today? Just decide for yourself what you want to eat. I know I'll get thumbs down by the vegan zealots this forum, but this isn't a religion, even though some act like it is.