How I did it: Realistically, I probably made the transition gradually without even realizing it.  When I was younger, I stopped eating red meat.  I didn't like the tast of it, and I felt it wasn't that good for me anyway.  So, this is what I cut out first.  Over the next few years, I gradually just stopped eating, chicken, pork, etc.  Not out of any moral concern, really.  It was more of a health thing and knowing how my body felt.  I still ate meat products occasionally, but most of it was limited to fish.  I think this gradual elimination of meat products mad it easier for me to make the decision when the time came.

When I did finally make the decision to cut out meat and meat products entirely it was for moral, environmental, and health concerns.  I just stopped eating all meat.  Seemingly, I made the transition overnight.  As I said, however, it was actually a process that I'd started years ago, albeit unconsciously.  It's been about a year and a half since I've become vegetarian.  I do get tempted by meat products occasionally, but my resolve is strong because I know all the good I'm doing for the world with my decision!

Lessons & tips: Take it easy if you need to!
There's no need to make the transition over night.
Every little bit helps!

Resources: The China Study is really an excellent book if you're interested in the health benefits of a vegan/vegetarian diet.

Also, Deborah Madison has some great cook books out there if you're a chef and don't really know what to make for yourself.  Try Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone.  Delicious!

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Mar 10, 2009, 08:32AM PDT | 0 comments | 4 cheers