Go vegan for one month

“The month was lonely as far as eating out. Butter is hidden in many otherwise innocuous sauces. I found solace in Southern Indian food - hold the yogurt - falafel, and simple vegetable/tofu stir-fries at Chinese restaurants. Most other restaurants were just too difficult, and while some friends were fascinated by the way I would question servers about the ingredients in each dish, most found it too difficult to think of places we could go together. Yet despite all the hassle and the countless hours spent planning meals, I was shocked at how much I enjoyed being vegan. I won't lie - I made mistakes, such as discovering that the lime-flavored tortilla chips I scarfed down had milk in them, or trying to stay vegan while visiting family in Texas. But I remained fairly diligent.”

“Within the first few days I realise that convenience is my arch-rival. I had never realised the sheer amount of products that animal produce is in and end up turning to Linda McCartney sausage rolls out of ease. It’s a trend that continues and I feel like I’m eating anything that’s vegan. I have to remind myself to consume something other than bread, hummus and rice.”

“As scary as the buildup seemed, my first week of veganism was the opposite of what I had expected. I truly felt completely nourished and energized, despite the dietary changes that my body was adjusting to. Surprisingly enough, I was not craving meat or eggs to any crazy extent. I enjoyed making avocado toast for breakfast and mixing together a sweet potato salad for lunch. The diet did not burden my regular workout routine or alter my sleep schedule. Of course, I’m sure switching up your diet effects everyone differently, but for me I was pleasantly surprised to say the least.”