Making the Switch to a Vegan Diet

Changing from the Standard American Diet (SAD) to a whole foods, vegan diet may seem daunting, but with a couple of thought out steps you’ll be eating a healthier, more satisfying diet before you know it.

Don't give up your favorite foods immediately. If you love cheese pizza more than an early morning bike ride or life itself, then suddenly removing it from your diet will bring more gloom than benefit.

Start by eating more of the vegan foods you already eat. Then add more of these foods to any meals that you usually eat with animal products. Eliminate animal foods you don't eat often. You won’t miss these, so let them go first.

Find other vegetarians and vegans! Most likely they will be super excited to share with you their favorite foods and meals. There are many types of vegetarians with varying food preferences, so talk to as many as possible.

Next find recipes and cookbooks that you like. Skip the gourmet ones (for now!) and go for the ones that are most similar to your cooking style. Cook with others. Invite friends over for a vegan dinner feast. Involving those around you with any change you want to make in your life only makes it easier. We already know the benefit of riding or running with a group -- eating is no different.

Today health food stores, and with increasing frequency grocery stores, carry plenty of vegan foods like soy milk and other non-dairy alternatives, organic produce and whole grains. Take the time to explore!

There are many types of soymilk, rice, vegetables, etc. and even more ways to prepare them. If you don't like some a certain way, try different ones or different preparation methods.

Be prepared. Stock your kitchen with the healthy vegan whole foods you want to eat and it will be harder to lapse into old ways.

Stay connected. Use the resources in this guide to stay up on the health, ethical and environmental benefits of a vegan whole foods diet.