When transitioning to a plant-based diet, figuring out what to eat can be a challenge. Sometimes starting the transition seems so difficult that most don’t even attempt it at all.
When you decide to make a change in your eating habits, it’s common to get stuck eating the same thing over and over, resorting to take-out, or even breaking your diet. To stay on track with any diet, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.
Get inspired.
Find things you’d love to try by browsing the internet or apps like Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok. Search by hashtags to find vegan-specific recipes and meal ideas. If you’re feeling adventurous try new recipes or create your own masterpiece by turning your favourite meals into vegan.
Plan ahead.
Grocery shop with a list and have a plan for what you’ll make throughout the week. Work smarter by chopping up enough vegetables for now and later. Cook enough so you’ll have leftovers. Things like grains, roasted vegetables, and soups are great to make once and eat all week.
Stock up on staples.
Look for whole grains like rice, quinoa, oats. Keep your freezer full of frozen fruits and vegetables, buy them frozen or freeze from fresh. Add flavor with hot sauce, salsa, soy sauce, and jarred tomato sauce.
Keep notes.
Save recipes you and your family love and plan to make them again. Keep ingredients on hand so you’re ready to whip up a meal you know you’ll love anytime. Try our helpful guide on dining out as a vegan if you’re not going to be eating at home.
Before beginning a new diet or attempting to lose weight, it may be beneficial to meet with a weight loss specialist, nutritionist, or professional trainer. There is no wrong or right way to transition to a plant-based lifestyle. Take things at your own pace and remember that nobody’s perfect. Any changes you make that get you close to your goal are wins and deserve to be celebrated.
