though not a terribly strict one, as a few products like honey and eggs(that i'm usually unaware of) occasionally make there way into my diet. 90% of the reason i went vegan was for health issues(im lactose intolerant/overweight), the other 10% was for the animals. anyway, i'm just starting out and so far, i'm having a few minor issues: 1) my bf, whom i live with, is not a vegetarian, infact he doesn't really support vegetarianism at all. i have to catch a ton of flack, everyday at meal time with him. it makes me sad, more than anything. any ideas on what i can do to get him off my back/gain a little more respect from him? 2) we are incredibly strapped for time and there is really never more than about 10 minutes to spare for preparing my meals. luckily, i work at a restaurant that is vegan friendly, but i cant get all of my food from work obviously and i'm growing tired of frozen dinners. i was wondering if i could possibly get all of you to share your favorite fast vegan recipes? or maybe a few links to some good recipe sites? any and all help would be much appreciated... 3) im going to be staying with my folks (who have probably never even heard of a vegan) for a couple of days this weekend, and i was wondering if it would be rude to bring some of my own food??? i would hate to be seen as disrespectful, but at the same time, i dont feel that i need to sacrifice my values for the sake of someone elses comfort, ya know? I feel so very lost... HELP? Thanks
Hey! I'm about a two year old vegan so maybe I can help you out a bit here. First things, I read that you said a great deal of doing this is for your weight. I expected to loose weight when I went vegan (Though, I did loose weight going vegetarian) but I didn't. Its because we do live in a busy busy world and having natural healthy food at fast access is really tough. Vegans eat a lot of carbs. Carbs are good for you though, so don't cut um out. Try to make them whole grain cause refined tend to pack on the pounds. I would know lol. Just make sure you get plenty of fruits and veggies too. I can relate to the whole relative boyfriend thing since I'm coming from an omni family and am dating an omni. There's a catch to being vegan. You have to explain yourself ALL THE TIME! Its so annoying, but realize that this a fairly new lifestyle that many people don't know understand. Take some time to read, read, and read. Read about the health benefits, animal cruelty, and other wonderful reasons for being vegan then challenge and explain to the meat eaters who tease. You will become very confidant in yourself and your veganism. When people pick on you, question you, or whatever else you'll be ready to give um your response. This will also help to be read up when you go to visit your family. I'm sure they'll have plenty of questions for you! As for recipes check out these places: http://vegweb.com/ http://www.fatfreevegan.com/ http://www.veganchef.com/ And there are many books I am sure you can purchase at your nearby bookstore or even rent from your library. Bringing your own food is not rude at all! Try a bunch of recipes and pick your tastiest and maybe bring the ingredients to try cooking or making for your whole family. People are almost always blown away by a tasty vegan dessert or meal in general. A common line is "Wow, I can't believe this is vegan!" It's almost an insult but they mean well usually. They like your food Being vegan is a life-long thing if it sticks. Most importantly take your time in learning to cook and studying it. Don't rush yourself or make it a burden. Enjoy living naturally and cruelty free. If you ever need any advice or if you happen to come across a great recipe feel free to PM me :] Peace+Love, Em
Wow. thank you PLUR. i expected to get a few semi-helpful replies, but i don't think i'll need any others,haha. All of the info and websites were very very very helpful p.s. i would love to trade recipes! afterall, i am a classically trained chef, by trade.
