Did you just start a vegetarian or vegan diet? Good for you! There are many health and environmental benefits of vegetarian and vegan diets.
I know from experience that it can be weird and sometimes difficult to give up meat and/or other animal products when you first start. It becomes such a way of life to eat animals that we don’t even think about it. I know I personally gave up meat for health and compassion, not because I hate meat. I actually love the taste of meat and do miss it sometimes. However the overall lifestyle has been worth it to me.
Hopefully it is to you too!
And when you walk through the door for that Christmas Eve dinner, it can be easy to throw the idea of any kind of conscious diet out the window. Trust me, I know! It can be a big shift when you first start. However, with a little willpower and planning, you can keep your new diet going throughout the holidays while still enjoying the season!
Start with a salad
If you can, start your meal by eating healthy foods like salads. Having a simple salad will fill you up before you get to the main course. So you will be less likely to give up on your new dietary choices when you smell that roast beef.
If you’re not a salad person, try to find other starters to enjoy like hummus or small veggie dishes. You can also plan ahead by bringing some healthy, protein-filled vegetarian snacks to the party! There are lots of fun holiday snacks you can make with nuts, beans and other alternative sources of protein.
Bring a dish of your own or help cook
On that note, offer to bring a dish or two of your own or help the cook in the kitchen! This is probably one of the best ways to make sure that you have healthful, delicious, non-animal-based options available. But be sure to remain respectful of your host. Don’t try to co-opt the dinner plans if the host seems intent on doing things themselves.
Most of the time though, people love some help with throwing a party, so be sure to at least offer ahead of time and possibly the day-of. Or if you’re up for it, host the party yourself!
Prepare for questions
If you’re new to this lifestyle, chances are a lot of your family and friends don’t know about it yet. Be prepared to get some questions when you opt not to indulge in the steak dinner you used to profess to love.
Have a list of respectful but firm answers ready in your head. Also, try not to get too deep into your reasoning and start making others feel bad on what’s supposed to be a fun day for everyone. If people ask, let them know you’d be happy to discuss it privately after everyone’s done eating.
Be mindful of your values
A great way to keep your mind off of what you may think you’re missing out on is to remember your values. This comes in two forms:
- Remembering why you chose this lifestyle in the first place and reminding yourself of that every time you think you’re not strong enough to continue.
- Remembering that this season is really about spending meaningful time with family, friends, and loved ones. Focus on conversation and connections as much as possible , but especially when you feel a craving start.
Enjoy the season
Some of the more radical vegetarians and vegans may curse me for saying this, but at the end of the day, you are doing something great by even trying to eat a more ethical diet, and you may have some slip ups. It’s not the end of the world if you do — don’t beat yourself up. Enjoy your holiday and start fresh tomorrow.
However, these tips can be a great start if you really want to avoid ditching your new diet for even a day. Listen to your body and your values. Just keep in mind that you’re giving back to the world in a great way this holiday season by choosing to live a more health and eco-conscious lifestyle. Every small step makes a difference, so thank you. Happy holidays!
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