Health cities across the region have some great souqs, in which you will be able to pick up some great spices, peas, beans, fruits and vegetables, so have some fun shopping.
5. Find some vegan treats to replace those treats you have to leave behind
We all love treats. I am an ice-cream fanatic. Researching a wonderful vegan alternative is going to be the key to your sanity on those days when all you want after a long day is a tasty treat. I have found out that you can have nearly all the naughty treats you know and love in a vegan variety; from dark chocolate, ice cream, to even cheese cake, there is a vegan treat for every sweet tooth. It simply requires a little more research and effort in sourcing or making it. While conducting research for this article, I made a vegan coconut cake and my family did not know the difference and someone even asked me for the recipe.
6. Mock meats
If you simply must have meat balls, bacon etc. It is important to check your local supermarket for plant based mock meats. For some people this could be the difference between, sticking with a vegan diet or falling off the wagon. For those of us living in the United Arab Emirates and Oman, Lulus and Carrefour stocks a variety of mock meats.
7. There will be side effects
For many people when you go vegan, you begin to have a lot more beans and peas. Some people go from zero to a cup full or more in a day. This can lead to bloating, indigestion and gas. It does take your body a while to adjust to this new way of eating, so remember to start slowly. These side effects should go away after some time, but if they do not, then you need to see a doctor.
8. Pinterest and YouTube will become your friends
If you do not have a community of vegans around you and most of us don’ t, then you will find kindred spirits on social media, especially Pinterest and YouTube. In doing research on this topic, I saw so many interesting recipes on Pinterest, that I started a whole new board for them and of course watching those vegan chefs on YouTube would get anyone wanting to try something new. If you have already decided to take the plunge into veganism and have started on that road, then you will find tons of inspiration on Pinterest and YouTube.
9. You may feel hungrier
When you switch to a more plant based diet you may feel hungrier quicker, after a meal. Remember meats carry more calories, which keeps you feeling fuller than any plant based meal would. If initially you feel hungry shortly after a meal, eat some more. In time your body will adjust to this new way of eating.
10. Why?
This is probably the most important thing to consider before becoming vegan. Why do you want to become vegan? Are you doing it to become healthier? Is it for the protection of the environment? Do you have deep beliefs about the treatment of animals? Whatever your reason, make sure you are able to clearly articulate it. It would be even more beneficial in those initial days to write it down and put it somewhere that you will be able to see it. Knowing your ' why will
keep you going on those days when the temptation to give up is great. Also knowing why, will also help you to shift your focus from the perceived losses, to all that can be gained from becoming vegan.
11. You may mess up
Ok, so becoming vegan is not so easy and you may mess up, but as I mentioned above, if you know why you are doing it, then get back up and start again. Be kind to yourself. You have spent your whole life eating one way and now you have made a 360 degree turn and that’ s to be commended. If for whatever reason you slip up, don’ t be too hard on yourself, just pick up yourself and keep going.
12. You may need supplements
From my research, I discovered that you may need some supplements, such as vitamin B12 supplement. So, make sure to consult your doctor and be thoroughly checked out. It may also be beneficial to get checked 6 to 12 months, after becoming vegan to see how well your body is adjusting.