This post was written for Daily Hive byElizabeth Emery. Follow along on her plant-based adventures onVancouver with Love.
Thinking of going vegan for the new year?
I know how difficult it can be to make that change, from reading ingredient labels and explaining your new diet to friends to craving regular dairy-packed ice cream and cheesy pizza.
If youre wondering how to go (and stay) vegan, here are some tips on how to make it happen, and stay on track.
The most common mistake people make when going vegan is thinking they have to do it overnight. You dont! Its fantastic if you want to adopt a vegan diet cold turkey (excuse the pun), but why not start by simply reducing your consumption of animal products a little bit at a time?
Friends chatting/Shutterstock
There is a lot of support out there for anyone wondering how to adopt a more plant-based diet.Veganuaryis a great resource, as are local vegan meet-ups and social events with other plant-based peeps.
Changing your diet doesnt have to be hard work, and with a little organization, it can be simple.Plan the meals youre going to cook ahead of time, make a list, and grocery shop intentionally just for the ingredients. (Oh, and ALWAYS shop on a full stomach so thay youre less tempted by all the treats.)
Beyond Meat Burgers/Shutterstock
Most people focus on what theyre cutting out of their diet when they go vegan. For every food youre worried about giving up, take time to find an alternative you love. Foods like theBeyond Burgerhave grown incredibly popular in the last year, and there are tons of good meat and dairy replacements out there.
Its tempting to live off vegan junk food when there are so many good options these days (were looking at you, Tostitos). Whilst its great to indulge in treats and fast foods now and again, aim to focus on eating nutrient-dense foods and lots of fruits and veggies to keep yourself feeling great and energized.
Vegan restaurant/Shutterstock
There are a variety of vegan or vegan-friendly restaurants in cities across the country. If youre fed up with thinking about what to cook and you have the budget, going out to eat can provide a welcome break and inspiration for your next meal too.
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Here's how to go (and stay) vegan in the new year | Dished - Daily Hive