I've heard from a lot of you that in this beautiful new year of 2014, many plan to go vegan, or part vegan, or just give more veggies a whirl. I want to help. Having gone straight from rare steak eater, to vegan in one night, I assure you, I made many mistakes right off the bat. Hopefully, if I share some of mine, I can help you avoid these deadly sins...ok, they aren't deadly at all, but I think it will make things a little smoother.
Sometimes people are completely baffled as to what I live off of. Others think it must be sooo much work. Once you get used to being vegan, it's really easy. I often compare it to walking. You spend your whole life learning how to walk forwards. If you decide all of a sudden you want to walk sideways, it will be awkward, and you will probably trip a few times, but if you keep doing it, eventually walking sideways will be second nature.....I don't recommend learning to walk sideways and going vegan at the same time. That would really freak your friends out! So anyways, here we go. What NOT to do when going Vegan.
1. Don't throw out all your kitchen gadgets.
Steak knifes, fondu pots, cheese graters, a barbecue, meat slicer, grill pan, you name it! Although a good kitchen cleaning is a great way to start a vegan diet, don't throw out tools! Tools are tools, regardless of their original purpose, they are designed to be useful. They make life easier and, ehem, shall I say "fuss free". They can let you create and explore, and even though some tools intended use is for meat or dairy, you can find many new interesting ways to use them. Barbecue up some mixed veggies, use a meat slicer to evenly slice bananas lengthwise, dehydrate them, and hello banana candy! Before you know it "steak knife" will become tofu package opener, and "cheese grater" will be vegetable shredder.
2. Try not to talk about it too much.
You're excited about your new food adventures. Trust me, I get it! But don't go bragging to your meat eater friends about it... too much. I have noticed that people take food very personally. This is something they enjoy several times daily, so when someone waves their new food morals into your face, it can be annoying. Just wait for the "where do you get your protein questions". See, annoying. You can talk about it, sure, you will probably have to at some point, but just try to keep it simple. Chances are people will be interested anyways, so let them ask the questions. Itching with excitement and just want to tell people? Leave a comment here! The vegan community is very supportive.
3. Don't rudely turn down food.
You ate it a month ago, so when your friend offers you a cheese plate, don't scoff and be disgusted. Just politely say no thank you. Did someone plop down a piece of meat on your plate? Just return the meat to the serving plate. No need to make a big fussy deal. It's new to you. It will take your friends and family a while to get used to it too. To soften the blow, just say that you are currently experimenting with a vegan diet. Friends serving you food aren't trying to be jerks, infact, just the opposite, they are trying to be friends. It's not their job to cook for your diet.
4. Don't live off of salad.
I've gotten questions from new vegans wondering how they could possibly live off of this diet, and when I ask what they are eating, they tell me salad, hummus, and that's about it. Agh! I would be starving! Not to mention bored beyond belief. There are so many delightful things to eat and no need to be that limiting. Dive into vegan pastas, pizzas, sandwiches, soups. Asian food is a great option when on the run, just get the veggie options, and maybe check that there is no egg. Feast yourself galore! Don't deprive yourself. Meat and dairy are much more calorically dense than most vegan foods, so let yourself eat big bowls and plates of food. I almost always go for seconds. You are changing to an all new diet, so let yourself breathe a little. If you come across a vegan cupcake, go for it, want another slice of bread, do it. You are already eating healthier so get comfortable in this diet before considering limiting it even more. Don't forget to check out all my recipes here and give them a go.
5. Don't forget to cook!
Maybe you don't cook a lot, but if vegan is your goal, you will end up cooking often. This doesn't have to be a lot of work. Some people take a couple of hours on a Sunday and prepare large portions of food to last them throughout the week. Others, (like me) tend to cook on the fly. Whatever your style, make sure your kitchen gets some action. Even if you have great options at restaurants around you, nothing beats the price, the taste, and the comfort of a homemade meal. Cooking is even a little less frightening now. No worrying about meat being undercooked or raw eggs in batter. Vegan foods can be eaten at any stage of the cooking process. Pass the cookie dough!
6. Don't be afraid to try new things.
Going vegan is trying a new thing. Many of the dishes that used to be my faves don't even interest me anymore, and instead I have racked up a list of yummy new foods I like to munch on. There are so many awesome fresh fruits and veggies available, don't be afraid to venture away from the basics. If you see someone eating seasoned hemp seeds, have a taste, never heard of seitan? Try that. Seaweed chips? Sure thing. Dragonfuit? In the basket. You probably won't like everything, but you may come across your new favourite.
7. Don't leave the house without snacks.
In the beginning it is tough to know how to find vegan food on the go. Your old snack spots or restaurants may not have a lot of options, so don't get stuck somewhere, starving without anything to eat. Â I like to always have some fruit, a granola bar or some nuts on hand just in case I get hungry. Prepare some snack bags, and don't leave house without them!
8. Don't be so hard on yourself.
So you had something with cheese, or you ate meat or fish... yeah that isn't what your striving for, but what you are striving for is completely new. It's not about perfection. Your taste buds are learning, old habits are being broken, and that isn't always easy. Do you know that you can literally be addicted to cheese!? It takes about 3 months for your body to completely rid itself of these addictions. I used to be obsessed with cheese, now I don't miss it at all. It will happen! Give yourself some time, and before you know it, you won't even be interested in your old favourites.
I hope these tips have been helpful! I would love to know, what mistakes you made when going vegan? If you are in the process, what are you finding hard? Leave a comment, question, or just say hello!
Bon Appetegan!
Caity says
Hey Sam!
I recently watched "what the health" and "forks over knives" on Netflix and it has really opened my eyes to what animal products does to our bodies! I am attempting to go vegan however it is difficult for many reasons. 1. I am a avid hunter and fisher. 2. I don't have a kitchen to cook in. 3. I am a super picky eater and don't like many foods :(. I really do want to go vegan because I am only 20 years old and have rheumatoid arthritis in my knees and ibs. I want to be a healthy eater! Please help!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Caity! Congrats on your new vegan adventure! I would recommend taking small steps. I was able to go vegan overnight, but that doesn't work for everyone and that's a-ok. Every little step in the right direction is a great step! It will help your health, the animals, and the planet. Maybe instead of hunting and fishing, you can go for hikes through the forest, or go swimming in the streams. Bring a camera and instead of killing, try to grab some beautiful shots of the animals. A new way to shoot animals 😉 For your lack of kitchen, stock up on things that don't need cooking such as fruit, nuts, veggies and hummus. And check out Happy Cow to help you find vegan-friendly restaurants near you. And for your pickiness, start by eating the vegan foods that you do like, but keep in mind it takes about 10 tastes to learn to like a new food, so I challenge you to continually take small tastes of things. I'm sure you will start feeling great the more vegan food you eat so hopefully that will encourage you too 🙂 I hope that helps a little! Let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support.
Amanda says
Hi caity, I have only been vegan for a couple of months but all I can say is go into it with the mindset that lots of people do this every day and don't think twice about it. it is normal and in time it will be easier. I tried to go vegan a couple months before and went into it with the mindset that it was going to be hard and expensive(I only lasted a week). IDK where you live but in my neighborhood a nice bunch of kale costs 98cents. I have no clue how I thought it would be expensive, other than possibly non supportive family.I watched those movies too!!! and those movies is what started the research i've done on being vegan. if you are going full vegan lifestyle and all, I would do some introspection. why is killing animals so wrong? what do I gain from hunting and fishing and how could I replicate it without feeling guilty? once you can explain it to yourself you can explain it to others and you won't feel so out of place. cook your veggies and potatoes and tofu and vegan counterparts in the same place you would have cooked your meat. if anything I think meat takes up more room and is harder to cook than vegetables. the picky thing can't be helped except by time. try new things!!! in my opinion it's fun. make your friends try new things!.hehe
Sam Turnbull says
Great tips, thanks Amanda!
Danielle Vaughn says
Hey there! I'm 19 and for about a year and a half or so, I've been interested in veganism and researching it a lot. I had a friend in high school that was interested too and tried one time but it had yet to catch my attention. I got into vegan youtubers and bloggers and like Sam, have also binged documentaries on veganism, diets, health and the food industry. I decided a year ago to cut out all mammals and red meat and am now aiming for no dairy. On new years my friend (that previously tried and failed due to lack of info) and I are doing Veganuary together as a way to push ourselves to finally go vegan. My orocess has been long so dont feel bad withthe pace you go, you're still striving for a good result and pacing is different for everyone.
Sam Turnbull says
Great words of advice, Danielle! Every step you make in the right direction is a great step! 🙂
Patricia says
Hi Sam
My biggest mistake was to eat far too many nuts, nut butters and seeds. I have ended up with incredible gut issues, inflammation and huge weight gain. Not my best move! It's going to take a while to get my health back, but being vegan is wonderful and being sick is not!
Sam Turnbull says
Oh no! So happy you love being vegan, I wish you much success!
Jenny says
I have only been on my vegan journey for about a week now. I come from a close knit meat/cheese loving family. Thank you for all these tips. I do have a question for you. We have a family party coming up and I'm wondering, is it rude to bring my own food as a back up? Sometimes there just isn't a vegetarian option at all and I don't want to be hungry. But I also don't want anyone to get the wrong impression. Suggestions?
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Jenny! Congrats on your new veganism! When it comes to attending events, I think it's really helpful for the host if you bring something. But to make sure it isn't taken the wrong way, I would reach out to the host ahead of time and say something along the lines of "I'm so looking forward to your party, and I don't know if you are aware, but I recently turned vegan, so I would love to bring a dish I can eat and share with everyone so that you don't have to worry about me. Do you think (vegan dish of choice) would compliment your meal?" That way you are providing a nice gesture, and you aren't making more work for the host. This also lets the host know in advance why you will turn down any animal-product dishes so they won't be offended, and often hosts will keep your vegan diet in mind when preparing some of the dishes. You can also check out my guide for How to Survive the Holidays as a Vegan. I hope that helps, let me know if you have any more questions 🙂
Farrah says
Hi Sam! I recently made the change to a vegan diet 5 weeks ago. I had a similar experience watching a documentary that opened my eyes and made me want to change my diet. I was on the Paleo diet for 3 years before going vegan. Just like you, I never ever thought I would go vegan and I am guilty of the eye rolling when someone would tell me about going Vegan. My bro-in-law and his wife actually went vegan first. They read Dr. Fuhrmans, Eat to live as well. They would tell me about it and I would say "you're preaching to the wrong person" and "I will never go vegan". Oops ;). I actually started getting inflammation in my joints and had very painful knees and hips. Being only 35 and experiencing this for about 10 years baffled me. I felt I was the only one in my family going through this and being the youngest sibling and being the only one experiencing this confused me. I've been to plenty of Drs and they never knew why or could explain it except for having lose patellas or " runners knee"... and I don't even run lol. Anyway, I didn't know all this time it was inflammation until I went vegan. Just 3 weeks later, I noticed the pain going away and my flexibility improving. My paleo diet was poisoning me! Lol. Who knew?!?!. Anyway, I am very relieved to find blogs such as yours to help show me the way and share delicious recipes. I quite enjoy reading your blog and find it fun, entertaining and very delicious. Lol. Thanks for sharing!!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Farrah, a big congrats on your new veganism!!!! Hahaha, yeah I think almost everyone thinks they will never go vegan until one day they do! It seems so extreme to many people, and you don't really realize how incredibly un-extreme it is until you are living that way. That's so awesome to hear that your inflammation is going away! My best friend was paleo and was convinced all of her muscles would disappear as soon as she went vegan, but I dared her to try it for a week, and 2 years later she is still vegan. She actually was super sensitive to gluten to the point where the tiniest amount would make her swell up and look like she was pregnant, but after 6 months of being vegan, she could suddenly eat as much gluten as she wanted again. I'm talking pizza and pasta! I'm guessing that eating vegan must have allowed her stomach to heal from all the damage the excess meat had done. Anyways, so fabulous that you are doing so well, and I am thrilled that you love my blog so much. Let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support 🙂
Rachel Renken says
I am thinking about becoming vegan, but still am nervous about how to get enought protein. I already dont eat that much dairy, so thats not too big of an adjustment for me. I watched what the health and forks over knives and that opened my eyes to the health problems caused by animal products. I also love the paleo diet. I feel so clean when I dont have lots of rice and grains. Do you have any advice? Also since I am not totally sure how to get all my protien, how can I back up my diet to sceptics? I don't want to make this choice without being able to explain myself to people who really are curious.
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Rachel, congrats on your new vegan direction 🙂 I have great news, it's actually virtually impossible to be protein deficient unless you are calorie deficient (aka starving). This is why you don't see people going to the hospital for protein deficiency! ALL whole plant foods contain protein, so as long as you eat enough calories, you will easily get more than enough protein. Check out this little video for further information. So you have no need to worry. 🙂
Venessia says
This is exactly what I needed! My family and I are going on day 5! My husband and I watched a documentary a few months ago that really made us feel like we needed to do better. So we thought cutting back on red meat, eating more seafood and of course fruits and veggies was a step in the right direction. Well we found our selves watching another documentary and when I say the roller coaster of emotions for that hour had us both shook up. I was literally crying. We had decided halfway through what we needed to do. We went to bed and woke up vegans. We cleared out our fridge, freezer and pantry and are never looking back! Im very familiar in the kitchen and now even more excited about eating real food and being creative! Thank you for sharing!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Venessia, welcome!!! I can assure you almost every vegan I know has been through that rollercoaster of emotions. It's hard to know the truth, but it's really important. I'm so very happy you decided to go vegan, and overnight no less! That's exactly what happened to me, you can see my story here. Thrilled my post helped you a bit. So happy you found me and my blog, please let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support. I look forward to seeing you around 🙂
Raquel says
Hi Sam!
I am freshly new to going on a vegan diet and your blog has made me so excited about the things I can eat! I even ordered your new cookbook right away, because me and cooking are not much of friends. Becoming vegan for me has been hard because at first, it was not by choice, but due to needing to eat healthier because of IBS. However, the more I read into it and the more food choices I see, I'm becoming more confident in this choice and happier to becoming a vegan. Thanks so much for taking your time in helping new vegans and even older ones with your recipes and videos. Cant wait for the cook book!!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Raquel! Welcome!! Woohoo, so excited to hear that. Don't worry, I was in the same boat, I used to love eating meat and cheese, but knew I had to go vegan, and a funny thing happened, I absolutely fell in love with being vegan! It's all about breaking old habits and replacing them with new ones, once you do that, it won't be hard at all and you will feel amazing. A big welcome hug from me! Please let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support 🙂
Rylee smith says
Hi Sam, i want to start a vegan lifestyle but i like to ask if you would be eating anything extra like vitamins since there wont be anymore meat if you could reply to this i will greatly appreciate it!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Rylee, I answer all nutrition questions over on this page. Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any more questions.
Danielle Robinson says
Hey Sam! Awesome info!! I have been vegan for 30 days now, and I must say that I'm in love with the lifestyle. Before I became vegan I went paleo for 10 months! Yes, it was hard and I'm very glad that I'm done! The transition was different seeing as I went from not eating beans, pasta, rice or bread at all to consuming these items daily! (Minus the bread). I have been in the fitness and health lifestyle for 4 1/2 years and this has been the best decision I've ever made! I'm currently down 5 pounds and I feel like a million bucks! The first 30 days I focused on eating whole foods and plant based. I kept processed foods to a minimum. I haven't had vegan cheese etc. I had vegan pizza twice (best pizza I've ever tasted). I must say my favorite foods are Chipotle style bowl (homemade), veggie sushi & potato fries with a side salad! Yum!! I'm in this lifestyle for life!! Thanks for your blog.
Sincerely,
Danielle Robinson
Sam Turnbull says
Congrats on 30 days vegan!! Wow, your results are so inspiring! My best friend actually has a similar story. She's a personal trainer and was paleo when I convinced her to just try veganism for a week. She was so nervous about protein and what not, but it wasn't long before she felt like a million bucks and has now been vegan for 2 years! So happy you are feeling so great! Welcome to my blog Danielle, I look forward to seeing you around 😀
Melissa says
Hi Sam! Absolutely love your blog! I've always been a picky eater.. As far as meat goes, there is alot I never would eat. I hate seafood and the mere thought of it makes me gag.. Never touch bacon or anything liver, frog legs are utterly gross.. You get the pic 😉 I live where there are tons of farms and I just want to hug every cow I drive by and when I realized just how they were treated and slaughtered, my heart continues to be broken. I'm wanting to take this vegan thing seriously but of course I'm not getting alot of help from the hubby, he apparently doesn't share the same thoughts as I do. My kids were excited tho! Which makes it a little less stressful, knowing that they are in this with me and we are working together to help each other live healthier lives! I love your ideas and I can't wait to try them out! I worry that I will totally kerplunk this tho, I'm not very fluent with the Greens! Hold my nose, right! Maybe I'll get used to the stuf I am pretty sure I hate.. Cooked spinach = yuck, lol. Anyway, thank you for all your ideas and I will be watching for more from you and congrats on the one day change! That's amazing 🙂
xoxo from Tennessee! :-*
Sam Turnbull says
Thanks so much Melissa! So happy you found my blog, and even happier that you are trying to make the switch towards veganism! One of the most common comments I get on my recipes is something along the lines of "this recipe was so good even my carnivore husband/boyfriend loved it!" So I bet if you start creating some of my recipes, your hubby might be more supportive soon, and no cooked spinach is needed! 🙂
Kelsie says
Hi Sam and thanks for some great and welcoming advice! I've recently had great interest into transitioning to a vegan/plant based diet. While my fiancée is not going to be making the switch with me, something that I have decided would be a somewhat better step to also improve his diet is to find local and sustainably farmed animal products (the easiest of which should be meat and eggs since we live in the midwest) It's not perfect, but my main disgust comes from the abhorrent conditions in factory farms. I'm not totally there yet, but I've decided to commit to one vegan meal and one vegetarian meal per day in January and then gradually switch to all vegetarian/vegan.
Funny story about this though, I went vegetarian for a few months several years ago and it was right at the holidays (to my family's collective disgust) so when my mom and I were having a discussion about healthier eating resolutions for this year, I simply replied "to eat more plants" and her response was "you're not doing that vegetarian thing again, are you?" To which I smiled to myself and replied no, since my eventual goal is to become totally plant based. She's a sweet lady, but again, being from the Midwest, veganism is definitely a fringe community.
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Kelsie,
Woot! Welcome! That's awesome, so happy you plan to gradually make the switch. It can be difficult if you and your partner don't do it together, but it can totally be done. My best friend has been vegan for a year and a half, while her husband and child are not. They are all eating more plant-based meals as a result. 🙂 You always have my support! Welcome to my blog, and let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support 🙂
Dawn says
Hey ☺. Me and my husband signed up for Veganuary this year and have really thrown ourselves into it. We prepared ourselves during the month of December by going vegetarian as we thought it might be a bit of a shock to us going straight to vegan way of eating. Well, I'm pleasantly surprised that it's not as hard as I thought it would be. Admittedly I'm only 5 days into veganuary, but it's been really good so far. The only problem I'm having so far is the effect of eating an increased amount of fruit and vegetables. I'm feeling quite bloated and unwell. It's making me feel a bit miserable at the moment. I'm hoping that my body will adapt to the increased amount of fibre. My husband is struggling a bit with hunger. He is complaining of being hungry all the time. But I'be not experienced that at all. Thanks for writing this article because its nice to read about other people's vegan journeys to get support and encouragement ☺
Sam Turnbull says
Congratulations and welcome Dawn (and husband) 🙂
So glad you have found it pretty easy so far! It really is just replacing old habits with new habits. Once you get the swing of it, you won't even really have to think about it.
Ah yes, this is true, you are eating so much more fiber, and I am not surprised you are feeling that way. All that fiber is literally cleaning you out, and this is a good thing! The good news is that your system will balance out, just give it time. Fiber is actually one of the best nutrients for our bodies and one of the most under-consumed. Check out this video from Dr. Michael Gregor, (NutritionFact.org is a great resource for health info).
As for your husband's hunger, that is also normal. Animal products are some of the most calorie dense foods there are (except for oil), so when you take out things such as meat and cheese, which are very high in calories (contain no fiber) and are relatively small in size, and replace them for the same size of plant foods, it won't be even close to the same amount of calories. So your husband just has to eat more! My portion sizes almost doubled when I went vegan, and yet I actually lost a few pounds. Try also incorporating higher calorie plant foods such as avocado and nuts.
I hope that helps, let me know if you have any more questions 🙂
Dawn says
Oh thanks so much for your advice. Really appreciate it. I'm reading up everything I can about vegan recipes and ideas. I would love this vegan lifestyle to stick. It's good for the planet, our bodies and also animals. Fingers crossed we have a successful month ☺
Sam Turnbull says
My fingers are tightly crossed!! I'm sure you'll do great, and your life will be changed forever 🙂
Nicole says
Hi. I have been seriously considering the vegan lifestyle for quite some time and have decided to make the transition this year. I think your article and recipes have finally given me the last push needed. Thank you! This will be a real challenge as I live in South Africa. Red meat eating capital of the world! I know it will be difficult to gain support for my choice, so I am turning to online vegan communities/blogs etc. Keep up the good work!
Sam Turnbull says
Congrats and a big welcome from me, Nicole! It's perfect timing to go vegan as January is also know as Veganuary, the month the internet challenges the world to go vegan! As someone who came from a family of foodies, chefs, hunters, and butchers, I totally get how going vegan can be a challenge in a community that might not be so supportive, so coming to online communities are perfect! On Tuesday I will be posting my most popular recipes from the year, so make sure you are subscribed as that will be a great place to start. Let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support, I look forward to seeing you around 🙂
Catherine says
Hi Sam, I've just found your site and just made your pulled jack fruit!! Thanks so much for sharing. I know I'm going to love exploring your blogs and recipes
About to post our pulled jack and cheese toasties on Insta. Thanks!
Cheers
Catherine
@campfirevegans
Sam Turnbull says
Yay! Welcome to my site, I hope you find many new favourite recipes 😀
Julie Arnould says
Hi Sam,
I'm 13 years old vegan since pretty much a month now, my parents won't stop asking me where do i get this or this ... And it's really pissing me off. Especially because i was already vegetarian before and they weren't saying anything. Do you have any tips so they stop worying ? Also do you have ideas for how i could explain the rest of my family cause i'm really afraid of their critics.
You really made me understand that eating vegan doesn't suck and i want to thank you for everything you're doing 🙂
Ps: I hope you're doing great with the food photography for your book i can't wait to see it !
Kisses from France 🙂
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Julie!
Congrats on your first month, that's so awesome!
For the nutrition questions, check out my FAQ page I have all the answers to the basic nutrition questions vegans get asked. I also highly recommend watching the documentary Forks Over Knives with your parents. It's a great film that shows you how animal products actually affect our body very negatively, and that plant-based is the way to go!
For the rest of your family, don't feel the need to justify your decision. When people ask me why I'm vegan, I usually just keep it simple and respond with "because it makes me happy and makes me feel great!" Not only does this often intrigue people because it's not the answer they were expecting, but it's not something they can argue with, it's simply how I feel. People often want to criticize vegans at first, but over time they give up (or even join you). If they ask you questions, just try to keep the conversation light hearted and fun. It can be frustrating but just know it will get better over time.
Thanks so much for the well wishes!
Kisses from Canada 🙂
judith says
Hi just ingore it they will get use to it. My son is vegetarian and his 8years old he decided that all on his own at age 7. As his mother I join him on him on his quest. And I love it. My family critize me for letting my son go vegetarian. He doesnt care hs a happy child and healthy. Now we considering going vegan. I get frustrated when My family trll me im doing bad but as long as you feel good thats all it matters. It will take time for others to getbuse to it but eventually they will.
Bethany says
Omg. Every since i went vegetarian, and half vegan (not drinking milk, and not eating any meat) my parents have been on me about protein. How can i make sure that i get enough protein in my diet so that im not hungry-and that they get off my back about what i eat? Also, ever since i started considering being vegan, i feel as if im eating all the time... Is that normal?
Thanks for your time.
Hello from seattle!
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Bethany!
I have great news for you, not only is it very easy to get enough protein with a vegan diet, it's actually nearly impossible not to! I highly recommend both you and your parents watching this video and this video by Dr. Michael McGregor. They are both short, helpful little videos. For a more in-depth look, I recommend watching the documentary Forks Over Knives with your parents which can be found on Netflix. This documentary shows you how eating animal protein is actually really harmful to the body.
As for eating all the time, yes that's totally normal. Apart from oil, animal products (meat, cheese), are the most calorie dense foods. So when you switch to a plant-based diet, you have to eat a lot more quantity, to get the same calories your body requires. If this is new for you, you will soon get used to it. My portion size has almost doubled since I went vegan, yet, I am slimmer and fitter than ever! Hope that helps, let me know if you have any more questions or need any support. Hello from Toronto! 🙂
Barbora Skokankova says
Oh Gosh, hi Sam,
I will try to be short as much as I can but I have so much to tell you!
I was searching how to become vegan yesterday after my few days of not eating meat and I come across to your blog and couldn't stop reading it!!
Well the all has started not even two weeks ago when my partner and I went to visit our mutual friend and his fried is vegan and he recommended me to read The China study 😉 Let me tell you, I also have 7 months old very active lil boy and I still kinda haven't found time yet to read more than 4 pages but even for not being educated yet I completely fell in love with your post and it simply reminded to me I used to be and I guess I'm still meatlover, ie damn how I love rare port house steak or fish and seafood but mainly veggies of all shapes and taste!!!
I am already feeling not bloated and lighter if that makes sense. What a relief! I need to be always on top of my feet as my boy doesn't let me rest often!
My partner is carnivore and I don't think he would go vegan with me (he's so supportive tho) and then I'm coming to actually ask you 'Do you think I can make it happen to eventually follow this lifestyle even I will be cooking separately and plus for bubba who's eats still just veggie and fish, occasionally meat?!'
I was almost having tears how I felt I can relate to someone .. I have friends who are vegetarians, I met bascitarians ..my sister is vegetarian, my Mum alsways tends to eat just vegetarian food and now when I live across the world from them I caught myself I really want to improve and my partner's habits (generally I cook healthy but from time to time we get meaty pizza or duck curry..to satisfy my taste buds)
I almost feel like I can't live without fish so I can't be vegan then but would it work if I keep myself with eating clean like vegan and have fish?
I found some awesome markets, here in Sydney and I couldn't believe how yummy was vegan toast with cashew cheese .. Overall I hope I don't sound way too confused, it's just not easy with baby who's getting more active every day and the end of my day when I cook for my dear man I can't imagine to make it separate for me too because I'm way too exahusted..
You're so awesome and congratulation on your deal for cookbook!
I'm such a newbie in your blog but already loving it so much! Your writing it's I don't even read in English but in my language (I'm originally Czech)
Well, anyways thanks so much!
Namaste Sam! X
Sam Turnbull says
Haha, hi Barbora!
I'm so very happy that my blog is helping you and you are able to relate to me 🙂
I'm so happy you are already feeling better! I used to love steak, procuitto, chicken wings, you name it, but when you go vegan your taste buds change, and the things that you used to love, you likely won't crave, and sometimes will even be repulsed by. It's amazing how our bodies will adapt. Every change you make is awesome and I totally applaud you!
I know many vegans who are in relationships where their partner isn't vegan, so it can totally work. My best friend is vegan while her teen and husband are not, she always cooks a vegan meal, and then simply adds chicken to it for them.
Every time you choose to eat less meat is awesome, but if you are concerned about health, fish is actually pretty bad for you, here's an article explaining this. I recommend watching the documentary Forks Over Knives which is basically a summary of The China Study.
So very happy you love my blog so much, and congratulations on your new lifestyle! Please let me know if you ever have any questions or need any support 🙂
Michelle says
Hi Sam (coincidentally, that is my son's name),
I am not vegan, nor even vegetarian, but the lifestyle has always intrigued me. I love vegetables, and could very easily eat a vegetarian diet, but I have a son and husband who are both meat eaters. When hubby is at work, I can easily get my son to enjoy beans and rice with me, or a yummy vegetable soup. I'm unsure whether I could ever go vegan, but I can see myself becoming vegetarian. Most meals I cook are vegetarian based, and then I cook a little bit of meat on the side. Half the time I don't eat it, and only cook enough for my husband and son.
I really like your recipes. I could easily cook your meals and sub i meat for hubby and son. Some of them I think I could even get my son to eat, but I'm unsure about my hubby. He is very much "meat-centric", and has a hard time with vegetables as a whole. I have to get creative with him.
I think the reason I am drawn to your blog is that you're non-judgemental. I have researched being vegan, and have been attacked for my diet choices, even though I have cut down on my meat consumption dramatically. I don't eat meat every day, and some days I eat a vegan diet without realizing it. I just don't feel welcomed by the vegan community as a whole, which certainly doesn't make me want to join it. Having an attitude like you do will engage people, and will make them be willing to listen. I just find your ways refreshing, and I thank you for making me feel welcome.
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Michelle,
Awww thank you so much for the lovely compliment! I totally understand where you're coming from both with a meat eating family and the vegan community sometimes being pretty judgemental. I grew up in a meat-centric household that literally had animal heads on the walls. I loved eating rare steaks, and thought vegans were crazy! So I am certainly not going to judge anyone and know that from my own experience being a pushy, angry vegan wouldn't have worked for me. From the vegan side I totally get where the frustration and anger comes from, but I have been shocked at how judge-y some people can be. I have even had experiences where I was accused of not being vegan enough because I didn't originally go vegan for the animals, or because I purchased a vegan item from a store that also sold non-vegan items. It's seems crazy to me that I could be accused of not being vegan enough when I have literally dedicated my entire career to veganism. Sheesh!! Attacking the people who are actually trying is not going to get you anywhere. Support, encouragement, and of course delicious food is where it's at. Haha.
I think it's fab that you are eating mostly vegetarian! Every single meal makes a difference. It makes it more difficult when you live with meat eaters, but there are many vegans in this situation, including my best friend who is vegan, while her husband and teen are not. It can be done! Keep up the awesome work, you are always welcome here! 😀
Michelle says
Thanks for taking the time to reply to me, Sam. That's appreciated. I've been meat free for 5 days now, but have used chicken broth and bacon fat in a dish or two, so I'm definitely not vegetarian as of yet. I find that I feel better when I don't eat meat...my stomach doesn't feel so full and bloated. Also, I had gallbladder surgery a couple years ago, so fatty meats tend to bother me anyway, which is why I'm cutting them out.
Ultimately, I would like to cut out the broths/grease as well. The biggest problem I have with a lot of the vegetarian substitutes is the amount of unpronounceable ingredients. The veggie/vegan spreads have so many additives, and I'm really leery of soy. There's been so many different studies done of so many different foods that I just don't know what is best anymore...haha.
Again, thanks for listening, and being willing to understand. I too grew up in a house of hunters, with the animal heads on the walls. I've helped ready a deer for butcher many times a a kid, but was always unable to look into their eyes. I've only recently started to be mindful about where what I eat comes from, thanks to a vegetarian friend of mine teaching me some valuable lessons.
Cheers.
Sam Turnbull says
Vegan or not, processed food generally isn't very healthy. The best way to be a healthy vegan is to eat an abundance of whole plant foods! I don't use any store-bought fake meats, or anything like that in any of my recipes, so you have a great resource here to make lots of delicious recipes without any unpronounceable ingredients. I highly recommend watching the documentary Forks Over Knives, which is about how animal products affect our health. It's available on Netflix if you have that.
As for chicken broth and bacon fat, the easiest sub is vegetable broth and probably coconut oil. Or if you are feeling fancy, there is vegan bacon grease available too. Haha!
Lisa mariano says
There is also a book called A Kitchen Divided, for vegan/no vegan blended households....
Sam Turnbull says
Great tip!
Sagey says
Today is going to be my first day of veganism, but how will I make it through school? I still have a few years left, so it isn't completely easy.
Sam Turnbull says
Congratulations Sagey!!! That's wonderful. I always say that going vegan is just replacing old habits with new habits. It takes a bit of getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, it's easy. Maybe you ate a ham sandwich for lunch before, so now you can switch to a veggie and hummus sandwich. That goes the same for school. If you have a cafeteria at school, I would ask them which items are vegan friendly, there will definitely be some, and maybe if you bring awareness to it, they may provide more options. Having lots of snacks on hand is always a good way to make sure you aren't stuck somewhere without any vegan friendly options. Bars such as Cliff or Lara bars are vegan, as well as fruit, nuts, and granola. Also check out my guide on how to eat vegan at any restaurant, and download my favourite vegan apps, so you can easily find vegan options around you. Hope that's helpful! Let me know if you have any more questions or need any support 🙂
Freya says
Hey!
So I'm a teenager and I've been reading these tips and enjoying them very much. But I've literally only just decided to become a vegan from a meat-eating family all of my life. My Mum doesn't think I can do it and won't agree to buy the vegan food I need. She wants me to become a vegetarian instead, but I want to be vegan.
Another problem I have is that I have some leather boots and my school bag that I love so much , but I can't be vegan and keep them! Do you think it's ok for me to keep them or should I just go veggie?
Thanks,
Freya
xx
Sam Turnbull says
Hi Freya!
Congrats on learning about veganism as a teenager! I wish I went vegan when I was a teen. Unfortunately, parents are not always super supportive, you're not the only one in this situation. I think parents often believe it's a phase or trend that will soon pass. The only way to prove you are serious is with time. It's too bad your mom won't buy you vegan products, but luckily a lot of vegetarian products are actually vegan! Your mom is already likely making things that are vegan without even thinking about it as well. Just focus on eating lots of fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds. Then throw in some veggie burgers or other things like that which might help you eat with your family. Great thing about veggie burgers is that you can dress them how you like, so stay away from cheese and mayo and it's vegan!
As for the leather, everyone has a different approach on this but it's totally up to you. Some people can't stand the idea of having leather anymore so they get rid of it. Where as other people (such as myself), stop purchasing non-vegan things, but use the non-vegan items you have until you either wear them out or can replace them. If this is your approach you can still totally call yourself vegan! It's very common. I even still have some makeup items that aren't vegan from before I switched. I hope that helps and let me know if you have any more questions or need any support 🙂
Srivani says
As usual, Sam has great advice! I too commend you on your conviction to go vegan, as a teen and in a meat-eating family. Like Sam, I still have some leather items (belt, feather pillows, etc.) that I've had for years, even before I went vegetarian in 2000 (vegan in 2013). My personal belief is why get rid of a perfectly good item that I do still use and love. Along with Sam's great tips, I also recommend maybe making some vegan meals for your family, or at the least, help prepare the family meal to ensure you have a vegan option. Educate yourself to ensure you eat a healthy vegan diet (it's not all about French fries and pizza without cheese!). Work with your mom to research the benefits of a plant-based diet. There are tons of resources out there... Check out Forks Over Knives, Dr. Caldwell and a starch-based diet, the China Study, Get Vegucated, to name a few. Work with your parents to get educated; and stand proud in making such a fantastic decision for yourself.
Sam Turnbull says
Great tips Srivani! Thanks for your input as well. The vegan community is awesome!
Raven Starre says
Ow SHUT UP! You think you know all about being vegan don't you? Well Honey I have been vegan since birth and know more about it then you ever will!
Sam Turnbull says
I wouldn't doubt that you do know more than me Raven, but this post is from my experiences going from a meat eater to vegan. A lot of people have found this post helpful, which is my goal, to help more people go vegan. I'm sorry that you don't like this post, but my blog is my own point of view. Not everyone is always going to agree with me, and that's a-ok by me. There are plenty more vegan blogs out there and maybe there is one that will suit your own tastes more.
Ellie Hernandez says
Love! I am vegan and I am constantly helping people on the path of making more vegan choices and some completely adopting the lifestyle. Thank you for this blog!
I am continuously telling others do not feel bad or guilty if they falling off the wagon and that I am just so proud of them for continuing on the path and getting right back up again. It doesn't matter how many times you fall off the wagon to get comfortable in this lifestyle- I am just so very proud of all of the people making vegan choices and adopting the vegan lifestyle. Hugs brilliant souls, thank you on behalf of our Mother Earth Gaia, Mother Nature, the animal kingdom and Humanity- every vegan choice you make had a dramatic impact and it is in the service for the wellbeing for all ( which includes you, your health and well-being:)
Namaste blessed hearts
Sam Turnbull says
Thank you Ellie! Yes, that's right, every day, meal, or even bite you choose to eat vegan makes a difference. No one is perfect, so don't expect yourself to be! We all make mistakes, but we just do the best we can. Hugs back to you Ellie 🙂