And just like that I have been Vegan for SIX WHOLE MONTHS!!! I must say it flew by effortlessly. As a quick recap my sister the Veterinarian recommended I watch the documentary
What the Health
and I went cold (faux) turkey on all meat and dairy. My decision was based on ethical reasons after seeing how animals are treated. I no longer find meat appetizing. I guess I am lucky because I no longer crave meat. The look, the smell, the blood ugh can't stomach any off it.
I tend to be a very black or white, yes or no, on or off person so that straightforwardness works well in this vegan lifestyle. The support of my husband has also made it extremely easy. He joined me about two weeks after I started so we have cooked for each other, learned with each other and celebrated an improved lifestyle with each other! So I'm grateful for that! Six months ago I created a Facebook group called "Pink & Green and Plant Based" for members of Alpha Kappa Alpha either living or interested in a Vegan and/or Plant Based lifestyle. I have an AKA workout group that's been around for about eight years and that group has been so supportive in my journey I figured one for my vegan lifestyle would be as well; and I was right! I just started an Instagram page called "PlantBasedAKAs" all in an effort to provide as much information and resources about this way of life. Every step is beneficial for the animals, the environment and for us as humans so this is me doing my part.
Its been interesting on both sides people can be so judgmental. I'm trying to be a good Vegan Ambassador but people act like if you are vegan you have to be 100% or you're the devil. I always give the example of "cafeteria" Catholics. Just because you are a Christian doesn't mean you don't sin. People pick and chose what works best for them. My thing is ANY lifestyle change that supports veganism is a step in the right direction! No Vegans aren't perfect no meat eaters aren't the devil but knowledge is power and I think if more people knew what was really going on everyone would be vegan.Total win/win.
This month is
Veganuary! A month to promote the vegan lifestyle. It has been a great opportunity to spread the word. I have shared recipes, success stories and information. The response has been very positive!
Since I was already Vegan, I wanted to really try to go more Plant Based in January. So I had a goal to reduce processed vegan foods, eliminate alcohol and increase healthy vegan foods like fresh fruits and veggies. I created a January challenge and its been good. I haven't been 100% perfect and it showed me how much I like some Vegan junk food like chips, potato bread, and vegan processed products like the Aldi vegan chicken nuggets! As with everything its progress not perfection and since veganism isn't a "diet" for me it can be challenging to focus on healthy options. Here is the challenge try it for a month, a week or even a weekend!
Speaking of healthy choices; I finally went back to a Weight Watchers meeting. They changed the plan again. I don't know if I am happy about it yet. It reminds me of the Simply Filling plan to allowed certain foods 0 points and you are supposed to trust yourself to stop when satisfied. Weeeeeeellll I can't speak for everyone but if I knew how to stop eating when satisfied I wouldn't need to be on a weight loss program like Weight Watchers!
As a Vegan I should be happy since tofu, corn, beans, fruits, veggies, legumes, etc. are all 0 points. So we will see how it goes. I have to lose 7 pounds in about 4 weeks; less than 2 pounds a week. So I am gonna tighten up starting today with getting back on the app and exercising!
I want to give some quick updates since it was my 6 month anniversary! Below I will drop some helpful links! While everyone may not be willing to go vegan there's a way to ease into the lifestyle for many! So here are a few helpful resources!
10 Zero Point Meals on WW Freestyle Program
Vegan Shopping List at Trader Joe's
The Ultimate Trader Joe's Shopping List
Vegan Shopping at Walmart
Aldi's
Aldi rolls out vegan and vegetarian product line
