Transitioning to a Vegan Lifestyle: 3 Tips for Your Plant-Based Diet Journey by Kristina Hamlett

Considering a plant-based diet? You're not alone. Many people have gone vegan on the heels of documentaries such as What the Health. Six percent of Americans now identify as vegans. This month, I celebrated my one-year vegan anniversary. I embraced a plant-based diet for health and environmental reasons. Before you take the meat and dairy-free journey, here are a few tips:

• Do your research. Documentaries, podcasts and YouTube videos are great resources but there is no substitute for reading. I recommend The China Study by Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Thomas M. Campbell.

• Explore recipes in cookbooks, blogs and vlogs. I find new recipes on BuildYourBite.com, ForksOverKnives.com and right here at 30seconds! There are many inspiring vlogs such as SweetPotatoSoul with exciting content designed to inspire and make your mouth water.

• Forgive yourself. You will make many mistakes on your plant-based quest. You may accidentally eat something with dairy or forget to read a label. Take it one step at a time. It may be easier to start with one vegan meal a day and gradually increase from there.

There are many things to consider but mostly a new world to enjoy as a vegan. Good luck on your plant-based journey!

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