Why I am not a vegan

[Monica]

Is it difficult to go from veggie to vegan and do you need to take supplements? what are the benefits of doing so.

I found it more difficult giving up cheese than giving up meat, because I wasn't repulsed by cheese like I was meat. Also, cheese was a comfort food for me. It was actually doing the research for the original meat thread that opened my eyes to the cruelty in the dairy industry, and how the dairy industry feeds the meat industry, rather than just being a by-product, as I had formerly thought. Then, Pablisimo pointed out to me the addictive nature of dairy, and that is what finally got me to quit cheese completely.

What also helped me a lot was switching to the vegan cheese alternatives. The early versions weren't very palatable, but they are getting better and better! My favorite brand is Daiya - all of their cheese varieties are delicious and even meltable! (Thanks again to Pablisimo for that too!)

There are really only 2 concerns when switching from veggie to vegan:

1. Eating enough calories. As long as you eat enough calories of good foods (not empty junk), it is impossible to not get enough protein. See any books or lectures by Dr. John McDougall. The only time vegans run into problems is when they are trying to live on just salads and celery, which don't have many calories, or if they are eating a lot of junk. Eggs and dairy are calorie-intensive, so be sure to replace them with grains, legumes, tofu, tempeh, nuts, seeds, avocados, fruits, and starchy root veggies like potatoes, all of which have abundant calories.

2. B12. See the beginning of this thread for more on B12. It is the only nutrient that must be supplemented, for the simple reason that we wash the dirt off our food. Best form is sublingual. It's cheap and easy.

The benefits to one's health are enormous! Reduced risk of nearly all the degenerative diseases, improved immune system, increased energy, better skin, etc. Here is a great resource, based on the most comprehensive study on diet ever done:

http://www.forksoverknives.com/ <<== AWESOME RESOURCE! Watch the movie! Includes the science, amazing testimonials, yummy recipes, and much more. (It's about health only - Not graphic.)

Those transitioning from meat to veg may find this helpful:

Bring4th Forums Two > Health & Diet v > Vegetarianism Made E-Z (Recipes and Stuff - NO debate allowed here!)