chicago (almost) vegan
(posted this on the roll call post by mistake so pasted it here too)
Hello there. I am transitioning to a Vegan diet after "Eating Animals", and "Food Inc." led me to do some research on my own. I don't think I'll ever be able to look at poultry the same way. So far I have kicked eggs, milk, meat, and poultry out of my diet. I've reduced seafood to about once a week, and cheese is still my biggest weakness, but I'm trying hard to get rid of it. (I used to have about 5 daily servings of dairy in cheese/ice cream/yogurt form so down to 3 or so per week is big for me) Although I know there are those that fully believe it's all or nothing, I feel I'm on my way to being healthier and having less effect on the animals and the environment.
I've only been cooking vegan, but I haven't been vigilant when I eat out. As I'm telling more friends and family members about my diet changes it's easier. I don't want to make a big deal about it and announce to everyone that I'm no longer eating meat, but it's also something that people need a heads up about if they're cooking for me or if we want to eat out . It's a weird balance of showing I'm serious about it, but not that I'm judging others for still eating animal products, or trying to convince others to join me. Even though I'd love for people to know more about these issues and make the same choices I'm making. When my sister asked me why I switched I suggested for my sister to read the books too for all the info. Unfortunately she said "I don't read things like that because I don't want to know". Things like that make it harder. Luckily this site makes it easier, so does coconut milk ice cream :)
Chi(cago)Vegan
WELCOME, congrates on deciding to become vegan. You do know they have vegan cheese correct? Some brands taste better then others. I myself like the Galaxy nutrions foods Vegan brand but I cant stand the tofutti brand.
Its nice that your trying not to judge, I know it can be hard (especially when yo come up against a carnist* who will judge you.) Though when people ask you why you switched or ask sincerly interested questions I suggest you just answer them. Not stuck up or preachy, but in a happy that someone is interested way. If they want further information THEN I would suggest reading, otherwise you will get the "I dont want to know" answers like what your sister gave you.
*In the book "Why we love dogs, eat pigs, and wear cows" Dr. Joy uses the term Carnist for someone who eats meat.
hi, chi!
Welcome! I think insisting on an 'all or nothing' approach does no one any good... do the best you can, and it'll get easier/ you'll get better at it as you go along! Cheese & seafood were last for me, too... won't ever go back, tho! Much happier with how I eat now... Food Inc and Eating Animals are awesome, btw! Excellent taste... ;)b
Dealing with uninformed omnis is always a challenge... there's so much that most people don't know about where their food comes from -- and they DON"T WANT to know, which absolutely boggles my personal mind... lead by example, cook for 'em when the opportunity is there, and shrug off whatever ignorance you can't change (yet). Sometimes people around you (family, etc) WILL change over time, following your example; but they have to be ready to do it, and no one can make that happen if they aren't. My favorite response to 'why don't you eat meat?': "Do you want the short, medium, or long answer?" short: b/c I don't need to, and it makes me happy not to... medium: b/c based on all available research, a Western, animal-based diet is a health, environmental, and ethics disaster... long: same as 'medium' answer, but with supporting data provided! But I make 'em ASK for the longer one; psychologically, I think that makes a big difference as to how willing they are to actually listen. Also, if someone offers you something you don't eat, you can always say 'I don't care for ___, but thanks so much!' if you don't wanna get drawn into it... if you present it as a personal preference, it's harder for people to try to argue with you. There's a place for advocacy, but sometimes people perceive judgment where none is intended... 'I don't like bacon' (or even 'I only like food with no animal stuff in it') leaves less room for arguments with my mother-in-law than trying to share all the reasons WHY I don't like bacon, which she is absolutely NOT going to pay any attention to b/c 'god put them here for us to eat.' (eye roll) Anyway, just pick your battles, is all I mean.
Another good resource for the uninformed carni's, who may ask why you've crossed the meateater/ planteater divide: http://www.amazon.com/Eating-3rd-Mike-Anderson/dp/B001CRQ8K6. Several ex-omnis I know have crossed over, after watching this... it's a good overview of why it makes excellent sense (health/ environment/ ethics), in a very user-friendly format for complete veg-virgins.
Anyhow, welcome to VW! look forward to seeing you around... there's a great group here; ask for help as needed, w/ cooking or anything else! :)
Hi and welcome! I'm from the suburbs if chicago! Have you tried any of the wonderful veggie restaurants in Chicago yet?
Take your time with your transition, you have to so whats best for you. Have fun and enjoy all the new and wonderful flavors that are going to be a part of your new lifestyle.
Kelly
Nice to meet you. Welcome to the site.
Thanks everyone. I guess I've always been more of the "I want to know" type of person. Even if learning more about things scares me. Like when I read about BPA and bought an unlined stainless steel water bottle the same day because I didn't trust my plastic water bottle anymore :)
I have tried vegan cheese. I was surprised that the "veggies shreds" in the grocery store still have milk ingredients in them. I splurged on some daiya at whole foods, which was pretty close to real cheese. I imagine if when I stop eating cheese completely, I won't compare the tastes as much so the fake stuff will taste better.
I haven't tried the veg specific Chicago restaurants yet. Although my husband has promised to take me to Karyn's Cooked for our anniversary. I actually live in the suburbs now and have found some in the suburbs that have quite a few workable choices albeit not specifically vegetarian. I was excited that one of my previously favorite hamburger places will do any of their specialty burgers with a gardenburger mix instead of meat. Even though my father-in-law called me un-American for not eating a real burger, I was excited to not have to scour the menu for something I might like, and happy that the rest of the family wasn't inconvenienced by switching dinner spots.
I'm loving all the recipes and advice on this site! So great to know I'm not alone.
chivegan - congrats on your transition to veganism! I couldn't agree more that coconut milk ice cream makes EVERYTHING better. I just finished a bowl of Turtle Tracks from So Delicious. I want to marry it!
My only advice is: hang around people who are supportive of you (VegWeb can help with that! So many awesome people on here!), and try as many new types of vegan foods as possible. I never knew so many cuisines existed until I became vegan and started branching out. Also, I've found, the more I read and learn on the topic, the more I am committed to veganism... keep up with the reading! Can I suggest "Food Revolution" by John Robbins? It's good in the same way as "Eating Animals", highly recommended!
Oh, and welcome to VegWeb! If you have any questions or want to talk about anything, please let me know!
Best,
WebMistress Laura
I'm not from Chicago but just got back from a visit there for a vegan meet-up/vacation. There seems to be a great vegan population there, so you might want to check out the meet-ups for more face to face support. Someone on another board is trying to put another one together in the next month or two.
Congratulations to you for making the transition. Every change makes a big difference.