Many of us have tried “going vegetarian”—some in the interest of personal health, and others following a painful realization about where our food actually comes from.
Not surprisingly, these attempts usually don’t last long. It’s not realistic to cut a food group (or two) out of your diet and expect to feel the same.
After trying it, many people seem to throw up their hands and go back to their meat-eating ways. I am a culprit of this impractical meal plan.
Becoming vegetarian has serious consequences if you don’t do it properly. It’s simply not realistic to cut food groups out of your diet and expect to feel the same. The food group you cut out needs to be replaced by something equally nutritious, and it needs to be gradual.
It’s important to realize that by cutting meat out of your diet, you’re also cutting out some important nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.
It is possible to get these nutrients without eating meat, but it involves research and planning. You have to be open to a variety of foods you may not have considered before.
Vegetarian food has been a constant in my household. I’ll often come home to a meal of black bean burgers, tofu lasagna, or lentil loaf. But even though I enjoy meatless foods, I do not consider myself a vegetarian.
If I’m craving a burger, I’ll order a veggie patty with bacon. Some nights when I’m feeling particularly low on energy, I’ll treat myself to a steak.
We need to do away with this all-or-nothing approach to vegetarianism and veganism. It’s okay to introduce a few meatless meals into your diet without becoming a vegetarian.
I’ve never made the switch because I don’t see myself converting to a solely plant-based diet. I don’t want to become a junk food vegetarian who lives on highly processed foods either. If you see yourself as someone likely to take this approach, I wouldn’t recommend making the switch.
If you genuinely want to become a healthier person who feels better about the food they eat, have a meatless meal once or twice a day. It’s better to gradually incorporate vegetarian food items into your diet rather than cutting out meat altogether.
When it comes to vegetarianism, balance is key. A vegetarian lifestyle can be hugely beneficial and physically rewarding to those who do it right.
