Transitioning to vegan - any tips/recipes?

[TwentyCups]

I've been a vegetarian since I was a small child (my choice) and now nearly two decades later am attempting to transition to vegan.
It's not something I am rushing into, and I except it to take at least a year.
For full disclosure I've struggled with an eating disorder in the past. I'm currently healthy and well, but taking it slow partly due to this.

So.... Currently have cut out eggs and dairy milk. Am using mostly soya products (milk, cream etc) and coconut milk too.
Typical meals are stir fry, Mexican foods, curries, stews etc. Looking for inspiration and ways to make good filling foods!

Thank you :)

[Blondie1984]

Hi
Given your background, I think it's important that you ask yourself whether the desire to go vegan is, to any extent, a way of restricting

That aside, you need to make sure that you are going to be getting the nutrients that would normally come from non vegan foods - so make sure are still getting plenty of calcium, iron etc.

You could have a look at the Deliciously Ella books (if you haven't already) - she isn't vegan (still uses honey etc) but has some animal product free recipes - and the Oh She Glows website is very good

[TwentyCups]

Thank you. I have questioned this myself; it is something I honestly want to do over welfare issues. I have to say there is still a voice in my head that says it could be a way to restrict. However this voice pipes up over a lot of stuff - car broke and had to walk everywhere, that was one thing. Used to attend a lovely dance/martial arts group earlier in recovery but had to stop as I was getting sucked back in. I can't stop my brain thinking this stuff at times, but I believe I can override it. I have the support of my DP in this, and honestly don't want to go back to the dark times. It's a valid point though - and as I say, a big reason I would t do this overnight.
I tend to use golden syrup for roasting things in place of honey, so hopefully the things could be adapted. I was thinking of getting one of hers.
Never heard of that website, will take a look now, thank you for the tip!

[Blondie1984]

It sounds like you've thought about it a lot and that you are are really good at recognising when your ED is trying to creep back in which is great

The gradual approach you are planning sounds like a good move - wishing you all the best with it

[TwentyCups]

Thank you blondie!

[Rawvita]

I am vegan, you need b12 it's essential as we don't get it from vegan diet! Brain health! I'm also taking juice plus veg tabs for minerals! After ending up in hospital. Be warned if you are vegan get supplements! Look at brain health on vegan diet!

[economymode]

Hi twentycups. We're in a very similar position. I do suffered from an ED and still get those thoughts creeping in. I too am a long term vegetarian making the move to veganism. My advice is take it slowly (like you are) and don't worry if you trip up. I find people always question my food decisions once they know my history (hello, mother!), which makes it really hard for me - I know the reasons I am doing it but others think it's the ED talking.

Second oh she glows (website and book). Also Aine Carlin (no nonsense/straightforward vegan recipes) - she has a couple of books. I also rate Isa Does It (can't remember her full name off top of my head, Isa something or other...).

I'm not finding the cooking difficult at all, just make sure you know where to get your vitamins etc! Would type more but kids finally in bed and my 30 week pregnant body is demanding food!

[PovertyPain]

The nearest thing I take to a supplement is Engevita, which is dried inactive yeast, to keep up my B12 intake. It's delicious and you can sprinkle it on anything. No doubt you will getting lots of comments on the risks of being vegan. The only time I feel crap is when I eat junk food. There is lots and lots of vegan junk food and chocolate. Too much.

[PaperdollCartoon]

I take b12 and vegan omega 3-6 tablets - I don't eat enough nuts and seeds to get enough naturally, and the tabs made from algee are much better anyway.

Veggie pasta, chilli, stir fries are all staples in this house. Lots of rice, beans and lentils. Baked potatoes. Also Fry's vegan meats are by far the best, if you've been veggie since childhood you might not like meat subs, but if you've been focused on cheese and eggs for protein they might be helpful.

My fave for recipe inspiration is Hot for Food on YouTube, the stuff they make is amazing.

[michellelegoff]

There are some nutty snacks taste good but can supplement your diet with good nutrient. The snack brand - The Food Doctor have a range of nutrition-packed snacks, you can check it out.