There are different reasons to why someone chooses to switch to a plant-based diet. There are also different approaches to how to make the “transformation”. The reason to why I wanted to try this lifestyle out was because I did some research about the health aspects in animal proteins & diseases. I slowly started to be convinced of how more vegetable and less animal protein would give more energy and less inflammation.
Then there is the ethical part, on how we don’t treat animals well in the modern agriculture. This information goes hand in hand with how the same industry isn’t very environmental friendly. To be honest its a very dirty industry which pollutes soil, air and water.
I was pro. when I shifted diet
Since I played professional sports, I was a bit hesitant to just throw myself into changing my whole diet. I had, among other things, read that you couldn’t get enough protein and heard of other myths that tried to discredit a plant-based diets. Additionally, I enjoyed the taste of animal products and it was a staple ingredient in all of my meals. I therefore decided that I would try a 30-day vegan challenge. As the name suggests, it basically boils down to cutting out all animal products for a month.
I went into it not knowing if I would continue eating plant-based after the month was up, and it felt far less intimidating now that I had made it a personal experiment for a limited period of time. However, I got so many benefits from eating whole food plant-based that the challenge ended up being the starting point for a permanent change in my diet.
My 10 tips on how to switch to a plant-based diet.
- Remove all animal products from your home. A week before I started, I got rid of all the animal products I had in my kitchen. I ate all the beef, chicken, dairy and eggs I had and gave away some tins of tuna. If the temptations are not nearby, it is easier to adjust to the coming change.
- Be open to exploring new ingredients. If eating plant-based only consisted of the official food pyramid minus animal products, it would probably be a bit boring. Therefore, it is important that you are open to trying new things. Personally, my culinary skills have improved significantly. I’ve opened my eyes to tons of new vegetables, spices and ingredients.
- Have some easy recipes ready. As part of the preparation, it is a good idea to find a few recipes that can be made in under 30 minutes. There are tons of videos on Youtube as well as Facebook groups that have lots of easy and quick recipes. They will be worth it on those days when you have no idea what to eat.
- Make sure you have a good selection of basic ingredients. It is important to have a good selection of basic ingredients, so that you are not always dependent on having to go shopping to get dinner. It’s really nice to have a lot of food with a long shelf life in stock. Then you can always whip up something delicious without having to go shopping.
– I always have: Pasta, brown rice, white/brown/black beans, chickpeas, lentils, flaxseeds, quinoa, couscous, oatmeal, various oils, canned tomatoes, coconut milk, canned corn , soy sauce and nuts. In addition, I often have frozen vegetables, e.g. broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, kale, peas, edamame beans and haricots verts.
– Remember basic spices: salt, pepper, curry, (smoked) paprika, coriander, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, chili and turmeric. - Plan your day. If you study, play sports or have a job where you don’t have the opportunity to eat plant-based, make sure you have something with you. As an example, I can suggest smoothie, pasta, salad or wraps, as I think they are easy to take with you. It is good to have a banana, avocado or other fruit with you when you are on the move.
- Seek help inspiration in online vegan communities. There are quite a few YouTube channels, blogs and even vegan groups on Facebook where you can seek inspiration, get advice and guidance. Almost everyone who eats plant-based is happy to help people who are changing their lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
- Replacement products. You can get replacements products for many different animal products. I don’t use it that much myself, but a friend told me it was a big help when he had to change. So for those days when you just want to make something “recognizable” you can actually have it.
- Find places to eat in your local area. I have about 3-4 places where I can get something good to eat. Although I usually cook myself, it’s nice to have the opportunity to eat out. If you are going to a restaurant with some friends, where you do not have the opportunity to choose the place, you can always call ahead and ask if they can offer something vegan. It is my experience that most places have a vegan option nowadays.
- Eat a lot from home when going to events. It’s important to be social also if you have a different lifestyle. Be prepared that most people haven’t done the research on how to cook vegan, or even what a plant-based diet is. When going to these social events then eat from home, even if they say there will be food. A good idea is also to have a smoothie with you in your bag. I such so sit around and feel hungry.
- Be cool. You will most likely be met with critical and misunderstanding from people. Some will try to convince you that what you are doing is extreme, unhealthy or silly, but no matter what your motivations is be open, honest and relaxed about it your lifestyle. Be a good example of someone who lives healthily and deliciously on a plant-based diet.