Ali made the transition from vegetarianism to veganism gradually. If you’re flirting and want to go completely veg, check out her advice, as told to Ecorazzi contributor Allyson Koerner:
How Ali became vegetarian:
When I went vegetarian at age eleven, it was a remarkably easy transition. A boy at my school was attempting to kill creatures in the pond. When I tried to stop him, he said, “You eat animals,” like that meant I had no right to try and save something that could end up on my plate later. The hypocrisy of my actions became crystal clear in that moment. I decided, no more meat.
Ali’s Inspiration to go Vegan:
When I first started working for two organizations supporting anti-factory farming, vegan outreach and humane education, my choice to go vegan became that much clearer. I realized veganism is the only diet that can change the world.
What to expect:
You can expect a healthier body, and the feeling of pride that goes hand-in-hand with living according to your values. That’s something that many people aspire to, but few people achieve.
A gradual transition:
I attempted veganism at 16, but I had no idea what I was doing, and a very limited palate.
In my twenties, I tried again. I started experimenting with different foods by eating at a variety of vegan restaurants, buying vegan cookbooks and making home cooked meals made with whole foods the basis of my diet.
Here are my tips for flirts:
• Start simple with “tried and true recipes” and turn your favorite dish into a vegan one.
• Learn to cook by investing in great vegan cookbooks. Fancy cookware isn’t necessary!
• Try mock meats like Field Roast or Beyond Meat.
• Be patient and open minded about trying new foods.
• If “omni friends” don’t understand your new diet, then share vegan food with them.
Most of all, be kind to yourself and know that a slip up doesn’t mean you can’t do it. It just means you’re still on your food journey.
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Thank you Ali & Allyson!
Do you kind lifers have a transition story to share, or advice for flirts who are thinking of going veg?
Post your stories and advice in the comments below.
