Speaking personally, I would have to say that animals are the best things on this earth, besides chocolate, of course. I like animals more than I like humans, but then again, who doesn’t? They’re always loving, they never argue with you and most importantly, they always give you kisses! Being a vegetarian, I obviously cannot pick my most favorite animal, as they are all each as wonderful as the other. From dogs to pigs to cows, they are all unique in their own way. Many people struggle with converting to a vegetarian lifestyle because they feel deprived without the luxurious meats that they find delectable. Fortunately, becoming a vegetarian is not as despairing as it seems, especially with the types of products that are now available.

Beyond Meat claims to be the future of protein, and I think I may have to agree! Their mission states, “We believe there is a better way to feed the planet. Our mission is to create mass-market solutions that perfectly replace animal protein with plant protein. We are dedicated to improving human health, positively impacting climate change, conserving natural resources and respecting animal welfare. At Beyond Meat, we want to make the world a better place and we’re starting one delicious meal at a time.” They have created the foods that hearty meat lovers cannot possibly live without, and have made them out of 100 percent plant protein. Yep -- talk about being able to eat delicious burgers, chicken strips, chicken poppers, beef crumble, and even meatballs without the meat. Pretty crazy, right? The best part is that, they taste ten times better than the actual product that is made from animals. Still don’t believe me? Try it yourself! They’re now sold in Target and Walmart stores nationwide!

If you think that becoming a vegetarian disallows you from gaining enough protein in your diet, you’re very mistaken! Protein is very easily obtained by vegetarians, and doesn’t cause a hassle in the diet. Different types of ways veggies get their protein can come from beans, nuts, tofu, a large variety of vegetables, quinoa and many more. If you’re concerned about how much protein you need in your diet, No Meat Athlete has a great and easy method for determining your daily protein intake. Many female athletes weighing 120 to140 pounds only need between 70 and 85 grams of protein in their diets. No Meat Athlete’s website also has some great tricks and tips on how to be a healthy vegetarian athlete!

ChooseVeg.com claims that “By going vegetarian, we can reduce the impact of climate change, rainforest destruction, and pollution, while saving water and other precious resources. In fact, raising animals for food produces more greenhouse gas emissions than all of the cars, planes, and other forms of transportation combined.” Our environment is already in a detrimental state, and unless a change is made by us, then it will be very difficult to fix it. Of course along with saving the environment by becoming a vegetarian, it’s also more beneficial for your health as the number one killer in the nation is heart disease.

Becoming a vegetarian is a lot easier than it looks and than people think. It’s also amazing for your own health and mind, allowing you to have a healthy lifestyle while saving our planet. Everyone has their own reasoning for becoming a vegetarian, some is for a lifestyle change, mine was obviously for the love of the animals. What’s going to be your reason for the change?