Today, I begin Day 16 of my new vegan lifestyle. So what did I think about the first 15 days? Two words: Absolutely glorious! I love being a vegan.
I’ll admit that the first few days were rough. Anyone that knows me well knows that I love anything with dairy (especially specialty cheeses) and that I am proud lover of meat. Steak, burgers, gyros, hot dogs – these are all personal favorites. Well, I have finally said goodbye. Goodbye delicious Red Robin Guacamole Burger ! Goodbye yummy blue cheese! Goodbye my precious Big Mac! And, goodbye my lovely Dr. Pepper (yup, I quit soda as well). I love and miss you all.
Go vegan!
Do I have a desire to go back? Nope. Not really. Why? I invest way too much time in physical fitness (3-4 hours a day) so I am not going to give it all up for 5-8 minutes of enjoying a glorious piece of meat. Not worth it!
A perfect case study: I was at O’Charley’s just a few days ago enjoying dinner with friends. Two people at the table ordered their famous “Prime Rib Pasta” (including a link to tempt you). It’s 1530 calories, contains 101 grams of fat, 38 grams of saturated fat, 105mg of cholesterol, and 1760mg of sodium. I was envious at the moment, but looking back I am glad I opted for a salad.
With all that said, here are the positive results that help keep me focused:
- My cholesterol is way down. I am averaging about 0-5mg a day (daily average for most people is 300mg) so I am excited for my next cholesterol report.
- My energy is way up. 2pm or 3pm crashes? Doesn’t happen.
- My cardiovascular output is insane. I’m like the energizer bunny when doing a long run or long bike ride. My heart feels very strong.
- My confidence is improving. Sacrifice builds character and those little tiny sacrifices (think O’Charleys) made every day somehow builds my confidence in a weird way.
- My skin has improved. Cut the sat fat and oils and you will see a healthier glow.
These reasons alone are enough to keep me motivated. As tough as it can be, I love being a vegan.
P.S. I am not a vegan to “save the animals.” I am a vegan for my own health.
What about you? Have you ever tried to go vegan?
Hey Scott. Congratulations on the big lifestyle move! I did this for two weeks when I did my juice fast, and noticed 100% of the things you mentioned on the above. It is simply amazing how much better you feel. I spend 6 months or so out of each year as a vegetarian as part the yearly cycle of fasts my church prescribes, but truly giving up dairy is the hardest. I have the sneaking suspicion it is the giving up of dairy that is making you feel the best.
Thanks, Kevin! I have definitely noticed the benefits of going dairy free.
So glad it’s working out for you! I’ve been vegan since ’98, so if you ever need any tips, feel free to ask.
Awesome. Thanks, Kate! I may need to take you up on that offer.
Wow! Glad it’s working for you. Dunno if I have the patience to go full Vegan. Because you’re doing it for your health, does this mean you can still squeeze in the occasional trip to the sushi buffet?
You bet. I am sure I can still find some good stuff up there that is vegan free.