All the reasons why I became a vegetarian
Yes, I eat foods other than salads
On April 21st, I decided to make a drastic change in my life. I decided to cut out meat. I still eat fish, so I am a pescatarian to get super technical, but to make it easier, I just say vegetarian.
It’s been over six months since I’ve changed my diet and I have never felt happier or healthier. Don’t worry, this isn’t one of those articles where I shove my beliefs down your throat. I want to share why I personally decided to stop eating meat, and if you were thinking about becoming a vegetarian, this will give you the motivation to try it.
I’m a huge animal lover
I’ve always had a love for animals since I was young, and this is the biggest reason I decided to quit eating meat. Animals are intelligent and loving creatures, and they are not too different from us.
Knowing I was eating something that was once living, like a cow or pig, made me sick to my stomach. They don’t have a voice, so becoming a vegetarian made me feel like I was speaking up for their rights. I know one person not eating meat won’t mean people will stop producing, but it’s the moral choice for me.
It’s a healthier lifestyle
Although becoming a vegetarian won’t necessarily make you healthier, it will cut a lot of unhealthy foods out of your diet. Red meats are not the greatest for you, so taking it out of your diet will decrease your chances of heart disease, clogged arteries, and food-borne illness. There are many meat choices that are processed and high in saturated fats, so avoiding those would be beneficial. Another plus? When you go out to eat with friends, you’ll find yourself picking the healthier options.
The food is delicious
A lot of restaurants now serve vegetarian options, and they are just as good as the real deal. Have you ever had a black bean burger? It tastes just like a burger, maybe even better. If a restaurant doesn’t have a vegetarian option, then yes, I’ll order a salad like everyone will expect. Honestly, what is wrong with that though? There are so many different, delicious types of salads to choose from. You won’t feel like total garbage after eating it either, so it’s a win-win.
There’s also nothing wrong with ordering bottomless french fries or the whole spinach and artichoke dip appetizer for yourself. If there are no meatless options, you can do this feeling absolutely guilt-free.
Being a vegetarian really has its perks, and it’s not as hard as you think. I thought I would miss eating meat, and yeah, sometimes I crave it. Honestly, I really don’t miss it too much and I’m happy with my decision. Just remember, becoming a vegetarian isn’t a mistake, it’s just a missed steak.