Why I Became A Vegetarian And Stuck With It | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

I Became A Vegetarian, And Yes, I Stuck With It

It's been seven years and I'm not going back any time soon.

104
c1.staticflickr.com
Photo by Fancycrave on Unsplash

I originally became a vegetarian in seventh grade for a Lenten challenge and I have stuck with it for the past seven years. Initially, I did not think that I would continue to not eat meat after Lent ended, but here I am, about to be a sophomore in college and still going strong. I was never a huge meat-eater, to begin with, but it was definitely a part of my diet. I cut all meat out of my life cold turkey, and besides bacon (R.I.P.), I never felt a desire to eat any of it again. A lot of people go vegetarian for multiple reasons: personal health, the environment, and animal rights activists. Personally, I was just never a big fan to begin with, so that's really why I decided to commit to it, but the environmental and animal-related benefits are what made me stick with it.

I think one of the obstacles to becoming a vegetarian, or at least trying it out, is family and friends who have a negative perception of vegetarianism. In my experience, some family and friends were automatically turned off from the idea because they thought that I was trying to convert them to some hippie agenda. However, they came around to the idea once they realized that I was not the stereotypical annoying and pushy vegetarian who proclaims their vow to vegetables during every meal.

Being a vegetarian is also easier to stick with when there are so many substitutes and easy swaps for meals that traditionally contain meat. I have tried walnut tacos, cauliflower wings, chickpea tuna and more simple options like veggie burgers and swapping beans for fillers in tacos and chili. Also, most restaurants tend to have plenty of vegetarian options, otherwise I am the queen of combining side dishes into a full meal. Being a vegetarian is easier and more accessible than ever before, so there's really no reason to not at least give it a try.

The environmental benefits of not eating meat is the main reason I feel passionate about everyone at least making an effort to cut back on their meat consumption. The meat industry contributes to deforestation, pollution of water, greenhouse gases and the list goes on and on. Not to mention the brutal ill-treatment of animals and even workers. I know that a vegetarian lifestyle may not be compatible with everyone's health needs or their lifestyle, however, I would strongly encourage giving it a chance and trying to incorporate aspects of vegetarianism into your diet.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

16553
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7092
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5227
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4580
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments