The KInd Life Community Forum

Hello! My name is Dawn and I have been a vegetarian for 16 years. I was never much of a meat eater. I enjoyed McYuckys and steak for the most part. As part of a job application process I had to have a blood test. I was told that my cholesterol was high and that I should follow up with my doctor. Well, at the time I was 19 and didn't have a doctor. Nor did I plan on visiting one. I did nothing for a little more than a year. The doctor's words rang in my ears and I began to worry.

At age 20, I decided to stop eating meat and I have never looked back. I'm now 37 and over the years blood tests have shown that my cholesterol is normal. Even though I was pleased with the results there was always the nagging thought that even though I was "vegetarian" it didn't mean I was a healthy eater.

Last summer I noticed my shampoo bottle was labeled "vegan" and I thought well of course it is. Little did I know that there were animal by-products in all of my other products. The beef tallow in my dryer sheets was my grossest discovery. As I did some research and learned more, I discovered Alicia and TKD back in Dec. I have been visiting this site since then. The encouragement, kindness and information I have read about has been amazing! I finally joined back in May and I am so glad!

As a result, I went vegan in Jan. I am happy to say that it wasn't as hard as I thought it might be. It is certainly true that your tastebuds change as do your cravings for particular foods. If anyone is wondering if becoming vegan is for them please know that it does get easier. I've also lost nearly 10 pounds and my usual spring/summer allergies have been minimal. This is saying a lot coming from the itchy red eyed bucket of snot girl. :) Thank you again for everyone's inspiration and kindness. Together we can make positive changes!