I am so confused, I don't know if I should be a vegetarian or not?

Question

About 2 weeks ago I saw these videos on peta2.com and it made me sick to my stomach. After that I couldn't eat meat, I didn't want to. I looked at it in complete disgust.

When I was 14 I told my parents I wanted to be a vegetarian and they completely laughed at me and then told me I would have to cook my own meals (I can't cook AT ALL) so I chickened out of it. But now after seeing those videos I feel more strongly about it...but I am not sure.

We are in the middle of a move and are staying at a friends house, so I haven't been eating much, just one meal a day. I am pretty much torturing myself now because I don't know what to do, I am afraid to tell my parents, afriad to tell them...that I CAN'T eat it anymore. The thing is I kind of want to because I do like it, and my favorite food is sushi :( But everytime I look at it I can't do it, I panic. Like when I got home my mom asked me if I wanted this yummy dinner (can't spell it) but it had meat in it, and even though I am starving to death I rejected it. Her friend offered to make me macaroni but my mom said that I liked this so no.

I know I shouldn't just all at once stop eating meat, and maybe take it slow, but my mind won't let me. I am fully panicing and I don't know what to do, I really need help. If I tell my mom I know for a FACT she will tell me I am being stupid, and will make me panic more and get more confused. See as I was growing up my dad told me "God made animals for us to eat" and I was just told that yesterday. Even though I do believe in God, I can't do it, which is freaking me out.

knowing me if I can't decide what to do quick I will end up starving myself. Not intentionally, but I can already tell that will happen.

I really need to know what the benefits of being a vegetarian is and the...not-so good things. And also tell me what I will need for a good healthy life.

Answer 1

dont believe any of the c**p peta shoves down your throat peta is full of a bunch of liers not eating meat wont change anyway so just enjoy and dont be an idiot

Answer 2

from what i understand, you want to go vegetarian from PETA videos but you're sure your parents won't support you. right?

you can't just give up meat and meat dishes and keep going, you have to have a healthy, balanced, plant based diet, and this way you will be healthy and get the proper nutrition you need.

order a veggie starter guide or two, i recommend two from Vegan Outreach: 'Why Vegan?' and 'Guide To Cruelty-Free Eating' -- the best. if you follow this carefully, you can be a vegetarian and a healthy person.

Down there, there's a link to VegetarianTeen.com, which'll help you with all that stuff [dealing with your parents & the likes...] and a link to VeganOutreach.org to order the starter guides. there are alot of sites that can help you with going veg; you don't even have to know where to look. just Google it, and there ya go!

hope i helped :]

Answer 3

eating animals is very nasty. but i still do it cuz its an addiction for me. so become a vegetarian if u can cuz i would but its too hard for me.  

Answer 4

if you are a vegetarian, then you might have a hard time whith school meals. most of their protien comes from peanut butter and beans. if you dont want to live like that, then try to not think about the videos

ad eat meat a little at a time. then as time goes on, you should be able to eat and maybe just shrug off the videos. they might be more lasting, ive never watched it before. hpe this helps

Answer 5

tell your parents, they surly cant be mad at you for a style of eating. Me and my mum have been vegetarians for ages now, and where hardly ever ill, although it may not sound it because you don't take in much protein but being a vegetarian is really healthy. You can get your protein from a brand of food called Quorn, which is just fake meat, it tastes just like meat but isn't. To be honest there isn't really any bad sides to being a vegetarian. Pretty much everything there is in meat, there has been made a Quorn one of it. And it also makes your feel alot better about yourself. Good luck with telling the parents :)

Answer 6

Eat tons of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.......on whole wheat bread.

You could still be a vegetarian its healthy! C'mon

Answer 7

This is a SERIOUS problem. If your parents had any idea what you were going through, they might be more sympathetic. If you explain to your parents why you're going vegetarian and the struggle you've been going through, they might not be sympathetic but maybe they'll at least stop putting you down. Your parents are damaging your health, and you need to put a stop to it. Buy veggie burgers, and eat them. All you have to do is microwave them. No cooking skill involved! A simple vegetarian meal is a salad...again, no cooking skill involved, but it's tasty and easy to make. Make sandwiches (cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo/mustard, or PB & J). There are oodles of meat alternatives out there, and there are a lot of vegetarian meals you can easily make without having to be skilled at cooking.  

Answer 8

Its easy not to eat meat Just stop gradually. Eat nuts cheese,  peanut butter drink milk  your mother must serve things with no meat. potatoes are always good and corn. I wouldn't tell my parents anything. When you get back to school why don't you tell your counseler. Remember those cruel programs are designed to make meat eating look sound and feel really horible.  

Answer 9

if making meals are your biggest worry, many vegetarian organizations (including peta themselves, i believe) have free vegetarian starter kits they can send you that will help you get started on making meals, how to substitute a vegetarian product instead of meat into your regular meals, etc.

there are many health benefits to being vegetarian but there are also a number of things to keep in mind---e.g. maintaining an adequate amount of proteins and iron supplements in your diet. I've been vegetarian for about 8 years now--I'm the only vegetarian in my family, close or extended, and it's a bit weird for my family sometimes because we come from an ethnic background where meat consumption is a regular part of our diet (remember My Big Fat Greek Wedding? well that sort of family encounter happens a lot for me lol). Nevertheless, after i gave up meat (and i was fairly young then too) i have successfully stayed vegetarian and you know what? I almost NEVER (knock on wood) get sick---The last time i really got ill was a couple of years ago.

So my advice? order one of those starter kits. I think they come with some tvp and other substitutes too along with recipes. There are many websites devoted to vegetarian cooking. I don't cook a lot either but there are easier ways to do so--you can have your mom's home cooking except rather than the beef that she uses for some of the foods you can sub in an animal-friendly alternative so it's not like you have to completely change the recipe.

It can be done and I'm glad you're so passionate about becoming veg. There are many resources available online and in books, including some about how you can ease your parents into it. Also, look for support groups in your area. If there's a local university or even in your high school there will likely be some vegetarian groups there--if so, JOIN! It REALLY helps to network with other vegs---they can give you food ideas, lists of vegetarian local eateries, and emotional support as you begin becoming a vegetarian. Also, they might know a good nutritionist in the area which is very helpful to visit, particularly when just starting out.

Best of Luck!

Answer 10

don't do it you'll be missing out oh ton's of Great Fair food!

Answer 11

Common Questions about Vegetarianism

Use these answers to some of the most common questions asked about vegetarianism to put at rest your own mind, or to respond to any queries from meat-eating friends.

What is a Vegetarian?

A vegetarian is someone who does not eat meat, fish, poultry or any slaughterhouse by-product such as gelatine. Vegetarians live on a diet of grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, vegetables and fruit, with or without free-range eggs, milk and milk products. Vegetarians not eating anything containing dairy products or eggs are called vegans.

Isn't it hard being a vegetarian?

Not at all. Vegetarian food is widely available in shops and restaurants, it's easy to cook and you're probably already eating many vegetarian meals such as beans on toast or jacket potato and cheese without even putting your mind to it. It's no sacrifice to give up meat when there are so many delicious recipes and so many tasty foods to experiment with. Plus you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you're eating a healthy diet that doesn't involve the killing of animals or the abuse of the world's resources.

Where will I buy all this new food for my vegetarian diet?

Exactly the same place you used to buy food - in markets, supermarkets, corner shops. Vegetarian food, both in its 'raw state' as grains, pulses and vegetables, and as pre-cooked meals, is widely available nowadays.

What do I say to my family/friends?

Don't get caught up in arguments, just gather all the information about vegetarianism so you can calmly explain your decision. Then try introducing them to some of the delicious meat-free meals you're enjoying and see if you can win them over by setting a good example.

Aren't vegetarians being hypocritical because they still wear leather or exploit cows for their milk?

There is a very valid argument for becoming vegan - for giving up all dairy products, eggs and any other animal by-products. But realistically speaking, few people can go from being a meat eater to a vegan overnight. Vegetarianism is a very important halfway house. And even if you never go on to being vegan, you've already made an impact and saved the lives of many animals simply by giving up meat. Far from being hypocritical, you're making an effort to change the way you live for the better. How far you go with vegetarianism is up to you, but however small the step you take, it's not wasted. And don't feel that you have to become a perfect vegetarian overnight. If you forget to check the ingredients list and realise that you've just eaten something containing gelatine, don't feel that you've failed. Take it one step at a time and enjoy learning more about the vegetarian lifestyle.  

Aren't all vegetarians pale and unhealthy?

This old stereotype has taken a long time to die out. In fact, people who follow a varied, well-balanced vegetarian diet are in line with the current nutritional recommendations for a low fat, high fibre diet. That's why medical studies are proving that vegetarians are less likely to suffer from such illnesses as heart disease, cancer, diet-related diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. So, if for no other reason, go vegetarian as a favour to your body!

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What happens if I have to try to get a vegetarian meal in a restaurant?

There are very few restaurants now that don't offer at least one vegetarian option. Vegetarianism is such a growing movement, restaurateurs can't afford to ignore it. In the unlikely event that a restaurant doesn't have anything for you, don't be put fobbed off, especially with the offer of a fish or chicken dish which are 'practically vegetarian' - they're not!! Simply ask politely if they can make something specially for you. if they can't be bothered, why give them the benefit of your custom when there are plenty of other places all too willing to help.

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Isn't vegetarian food boring?

Vegetarians don't eke out a miserable existence on a few limp lettuce leaves and some boiled rice. And a proper vegetarian meal doesn't mean taking the meat away and leaving the side vegetables. With the hundreds of different vegetables, grains, fruit, pulses and nuts and seeds that exist, you could live to be 100 without exhausting all the possibilities for imaginative, nutritious meals! And as vegetarian food tends to be cheaper than a meat-based diet, you can afford to treat yourself to more expensive delicacies such as asparagus.

Won't it take a long time to prepare the food?

Just because there are so many wonderful vegetarian dishes to try, doesn't mean you have to become an expert cook and spend hours in the kitchen. You can easily cook good, wholesome vegetarian meals in under half an hour, and don't forget that most manufacturers now also offer a wide range of ready-made vegetarian dishes.

See Books and for some quick and easy recipes - Meat-free made easy

But how will I get enough of the vital nutrients such as iron and protein?

A well-balanced vegetarian diet provides all the nutrients you need for good health. In the case of protein, it's not only found in meat. It's also present in adequate quantities in dairy products, eggs and nuts, as well as in combinations of foods such as pulses and grains. In fact it would be very difficult to design a vegetarian diet that doesn't include enough protein.

Answer 12

wow well you need to first take a deeep breathe in and out and realize its not that hard to become a vegetarian or even a vegan (im 18 veg buddhist turning vegan) you need to do serious research on the subject first and foremost and think over WHY you want to go veg that way you have it in you mind to help motivate you get veg friends make them help you along with this go to the library get books on vegetarian go to sites like:

http://goveg.com/

http://vegconnect.com/

http://vegweb.com/

http://veggieconnection.com/

http://allveggielinks.com/

http://veggielinks.com/

http://vegan.alltop.com/

http://happycow.com/

check them all out and just relaxe and ease into it you dont have to jump into it all at once just remember why you want to do this and make it be your decision wheter you turn veg or not you wont be a bad person eitheir way but your health sure will improve if your veg

Answer 13

I know everyone will hate me for saying this, but humans were designed to eat meat. We are supposed to eat meat.

You need a balance of grains, protein, vegetables, and fruit to be healthy.

Other animals attack other animals, leave them to die painfully, then come back later to eat their bodies. Is PETA going to go stop other animals from eating meat? There is an overpopulation of certain animals (such as deer). Eating them is better for the environment. What if the overpopulation causes a depletion of their food source? They will all die very slowly, starving to death. And everyone knows letting them painfully starve to death is better than eating them.  

Answer 14

I think people become vegetarians and vegans for all sorts of reasons.  You need to figure out why you want to become one.  Is it for animal reasons?  is it for health reasons?   Maybe it's something you want to read more about.  Maybe you want to become a weekend carnivore meaning you eat meat on the weekends.   You know, just to ease into it.  Maybe you want to look into animal rights groups and talk to vegans or vegetarians before you decide.  You have a lot of time.  You don't have to act this minute.  take your time.

Answer 15

well im a vegetarian but i eat fish so i would say for u is to eat more protein to make up for the meat! and  its sounds like ur parents dont support u just like mine. try to get a vegetarian cook book and some basic cooking lessons! also ask ur parents to buy boca burgers of fake hot dogs! and all u have to do is pop them in the microwave! hope i helped!

Answer 16

This is ultimately your decision and you shouldn't let peta's propaganda make you question your beliefs. You should realize that no one that is alive now just invented animal cruelty, it's been around since the stone age, it's that basic instinct for survival that we are all here now. Not to mention peta uses only the video that is good for promoting their idea, and does not highlight anyone else who does good work for the planet or animals, but them. Bias, I think so!

Below is a link that will give you good info on what your needs are on a daily basis.

Answer 17

yeah ive seen the peta stuff too.  After i saw it, I definitely took milk out of my diet completely.  Taking milk and cheese out of your diet is one of the healthiest things you can do.  I still eat less meat, you shuold eats lots of salads if you are eating less meat, because green veggies are high in protein and im taking calcium and vitamin d supplements to regain the vitamins lost from not drinking milk.  seriously, what they do to cows, is almost as horrible as what they do to dogs for their skin in asia.  its sick and abusive.  that is why i chose to have VERY little dairy in my life.

meat is hard to aviod in my family, because it is what we have 5 times a week basically, but make your parents have more veggies on the table like broccli cauliflower corn asparagus  red peppers and have salad with every dinner if you opt out of meat for the week, month, year etc.

Answer 18

You're going to have to be hard-headed about this with your parents if you truly want to make the change, as that's what I had to do at first as well.

As for the cooking thing, you'll learn from trial and error what you can and cannot cook. Check out some vegetarian recipes, some are very easy once you try them!

For me, the benefits were a healthier lifestyle where I lost a bunch of weight and I am now a much healthier person. However, if you are very muchso into sports, I can't recommend it. The protein in meat is a must if you're going to remain so active without becoming deficient. Vitamins are also a help for things you can't get from anything except red meat.

Also, I don't recommend supporting P.E.T.A. They are an extremist group that frequently goes too far for so-called animal rights. Hope this helped.

Answer 19

thats what happened to me.

well ii think that if youu fell that way then youu should.

btw to get iron && stuff youu need to eat seeds &&  nuts && stuff like that.

Answer 20

Before you make a commitment to a dietary choice, I think you need to worry about your overall mental health, You seem very dramatic and as though your relationship to food in general is not very healthy. Your parents don't sound very supportive either. Please seek counseling.