Transitioning Into A Vegan : A Guide for Your First 30 Days

As we are faced with possibly the biggest health crisis in the last fifty years or so, there has been much talk about having to change our diet. Just like that,  google searches and articles on the topic of vegetarianism, transitioning to a vegan, vegan recipes and going whole foods plant-based has been off the roof exponentially. At one point, the statement “Coronavirus wouldn’t exist in a Vegan World” was the battle cry of many animal liberation activists and even some health experts in some parts of the world. 

As harsh, as radical and as daunting as may sound for regular citizens and by regular, we mean carnists or omnivores – there is actually some science to back up this claim. In fact, some vegan celebrities along the likes of Ellen DeGeneres, Anne Hathaway, Leonardo DiCaprio, Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grance may have said something similar albeit not as straightforward. 

Aside from their undying love for animals, vegan celebrities also often make mention about the horrifying impacts of meat consumption on our planet. This is a claim strongly supported by science – in fact, a recent study shows that one way to avoid global pandemics from taking place in the foreseeable future is by cutting down on meat and animal byproduct consumption. 

Transition to Vegan In 30 Days 

We completely understand that something as drastic as this may take more time than it seems for a lot of people. That’s completely understandable. The good news is that many people have ACTUALLY done it. Going cold turkey or making the transition to vegan in 30 days possible. Whether it’s for health reasons, your love for animals, or concern for the planet – this article was written to make it easier and more possible for you. In fact, if you’re just plantcurious or thinking of going flexitarian (mostly vegetarian, but an occasional meat eater), this guide might just be helpful for you! 

Step 1 : Mental Preparation 

Before anything else, the most important thing about a lifestyle switch is having a made up mind. You can take cues from your favourite vegan celebrities, well-known animal rights activists or find your courage by watching all these documentaries. But at the end of the day, what matters is that you make the decision for yourself.

While extremists may beg to disagree, the most sustainable way to go about it for an omnivore is to do the transition slowly but wilfully. You can start by setting non-negotiable no meat days (i.e. No Meat Mondays or Suffering-Free Sundays) and opting for plant options for the rest of your meals if it’s available. You can also do some mind conditioning by visualizing what your vegan breakfast would look like, what your vegan recipe would include and what finds are included in your vegan recipe list. Just keep learning, ask questions and keep searching. You will be surprised at how liberating and beneficial this transition is going to be not only for yourself but for the planet.  

Step 2 : Jumping Right In 

Now that you have done your homework and have taken the necessary steps to make the switch, the next step is to just GO FOR IT. For most people considering the switch, all the reasons, excuses and justifications start coming up right at the moment they decide to jump in. Unless it’s a matter of life and death and extremely urgent that it cannot be ignored – just go for it. 

The first step to becoming a vegan is jumping right in. You can’t have all the answers to all your questions and worries, most of these you’ll learn as you go. To get there, you have to start walking. For starters, choose some vegan recipes to try out. Head on over to the grocery store with a fully-vegan grocery list. The next thing you know, your days are filled with lots of reds, greens and cruelty-free colors! 

Step 3 : Keeping At It 

In the first 30 days, here’s a list of things you can expect to happen. 

• Weird sensations or feelings in your stomach
• Sudden cravings for meat – even the ones that you really do not like 
• Slight decrease in your energy 
• Feeling lighter. 
• Lots of peer pressure from your friends 
• Occasionally giving in to meat

The transition period, or the withdrawal as some people would call it, wouldn’t be a walk in the park. Expect to experience some hiccups and challenges along the way. As long as you stay determined and stay true to your reason for making the switch, you’ll be fine!