Transition to Plant Based Eating without upsetting the family

We all know that we need to eat more plants, more vegetables, and less processed foods. But what if you wake up one morning and decide to go plant based, or vegan? Is it easy to do that?

If you live on your own it’s pretty easy. Set aside 30 minutes to clear out your fridge and pantry, and start making plant based meals and snacks.

However for most of us with a family, it can be a little tricky, as not everyone in your household will want to ditch the dairy and meat.

At the time I transitioned to plant based, I was living with my husband and two daughters who loved their juicy steaks. It was a challenge in the beginning. However over time, I found a way to manage this without upsetting my crew.

Today my girls are grown up, they cook their own meals most of the time, and I eat meat when I feel like it, which is about 5% of my meals. I stay away from dairy, as this is what upsets my tummy and sinuses.

My biggest tips for transitioning to plant based:

• Start with one day a week (eg Meatless Monday) to enjoy a family plant based meal, and get the family’s buy in beforehand

• Have a theme for each night of the week, which takes the guess work out of meal planning. Each meal can be adapted to be plant based with the family adding their own meat, eg:
  
  Monday - Meatless Monday
  Tuesday - Taco Tuesday
  Wednesday - Curry Night
  Thursday - Pasta/Noodle Night
  Friday - Burger Night
  

• Focus on the all the amazing foods that you enjoy. Focus on the positives. This is not about missing out, it’s about living life to it’s fullest

Remember, why you are going plant based. Your health and your hip pocket will thank you in the long run.