Different approaches
I have found that there are varying opinions about how we tackle things generally. Thus it's refreshing to hear someone else's take on 'how to do it well' with regards to a topic, which is very close to my heart - being vegan!
So here's some tips, courtesy of Rebecca.
Be consistent to help you stay vegan
If you have decided to become a vegan, you may at times find that you have trouble sticking to your eating plan. With so many non-vegan options tempting you, it can be hard to stay focused and on track. However, as with any 'diet', the most effective way to see results is by being consistent. By following these simple guidelines for staying vegan, you might find that you have an easier time staying healthy.
Make 'feel good' vegan meals
One of the best ways to stay vegan is to ensure that you make the best food choices that you can. If your meals feel like “diet food,” you will be tempted to stray from it and eat something easily, which seems more indulgent.
Try searching for 'delicious vegan recipes' and look for healthy foods that can be bought in stores, so that meal times are enjoyable. It can be especially hard to have the right food available when eating at family get-togethers, or while on the road. If you have to stop for snacks somewhere, remember that there are often meat and animal product - free products, such as, nuts and nutrition bars available, as well as fresh fruit. At family gatherings, you may want to consider bringing along a vegan dish to share.
Know the health benefits of going plant-based
Be sure to become knowledgeable about the health benefits of staying vegan. You may find yourself up against criticism from others who follow mainstream diets, and this can really make it easy to slip back into old habits. Be sure to have information to hand about where to get healthy nutrients like protein and calcium, so that you can nip inaccurate, negative conversations in the bud.
Be kind to yourself
Finally, if you do make a mistake, do not beat yourself up over it. Gently remind yourself about why you made the choice in the first place, whether it is for environmental reasons, health reasons, or humane reasons, remember, you are only human, and you can always strive to do a better job next time. Staying vegan can certainly be hard, but the health and moral benefits are endless.
