4 Tips for Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet

Eating a plant-based diet has numerous benefits for your health and the environment. Although vegetarian and vegan lifestyles have become more popular in recent years as plant-based products have become more accessible to consumers, the idea of transitioning to a diet that lacks meat or dairy can seem intimidating and impossible for some. Some are worried about finding foods that they will like, missing opportunities to eat out with friends, or risking potentially depriving their bodies of necessary nutrients. People who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet are most at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency. Clinics like The Institute of Natural Health offer Vitamin B12, which can give you the nutrients you need. 

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If you have been thinking about switching to a plant-based diet, here are some tips to help you get started.

Rethink Animal Products

If you have been regularly eating meat and dairy for your entire life, it is normal for you to consume these products without a second thought, or without questioning where it is coming from or how it is prepared. Taking the time to research the meat industry and the impact it has on the environment and on humans’ health is a great place to begin reevaluating how you might actually feel about meat and the production of the items you are eating.

Start Slow

Once you have a better understanding of the reasons why you’d like to cut down on eating animal products, be patient with yourself and understand that switching to an entirely plant-based diet is a process that might take some time. To integrate plant-based foods and substitutes into your diet and to learn some new recipes, try something like preparing a vegetarian dinner once a week. 

Eat Your Veggies

Vegetables are the best way to get all of the nutrients your body needs and often act as a base for meat substitutes (for example, cauliflower “chicken” wings). Integrating vegetables into your diet will make the transition into plant-based eating easier, and is the perfect opportunity to explore what veggies you like if you aren’t sure. 

Make Friends Who Share a Similar Diet

One of the easiest ways to tackle plant-based eating is by surrounding yourself with people who eat the same way. Having fellow vegan or vegetarian friends who can share recipes or recommend local restaurants can make your journey easier, and before you know it, eating plant-based will feel like second nature to you.

Switching to a plant-based diet can have countless benefits for your physical and mental health, and is great for the environment. Although switching your diet can be challenging at first, it will get easier with time. With a little preparation and patience, you will be on your plant-based journey and seeing its benefits in no time.