My Journey from Vegetarian to Vegan: A Personal Story

This is a personal story of my journey from vegetarian to vegan, detailing the reasons and experiences that led me to adopt a completely plant-based lifestyle.

Why Did I Decide to Go Vegan Instead of Simply Vegetarian?

My decision to go vegan rather than simply vegetarian was a multi-faceted process influenced by health, compassion, and personal beliefs.

Health Reasons: As a vegetarian from 1980 to 1988, I shifted to a vegan diet primarily for health reasons. During that period, free-range organic eggs were hard to find in the city, leaving me with an easy and obvious choice. My body responded positively to the new diet, and I noticed significant improvements in my overall health.

Compassion and Animal Welfare: The memory of visiting an abattoir during my childhood had a lasting impact on me. Witnessing the terror in the eyes of the cows as they faced the electric guns remains vivid in my mind. This experience taught me the hypocrisy of consuming animal products when I held such a deep love for all animals. Hence, I became vegan to align my actions with my values of compassion and respect for life.

Experimenting with Plant-Based Diets: A Curious Journey

At times, experimenting with plant-based diets can be enlightening and sometimes challenging. Here, I share my experience of going vegetarian for 6 months and vegan for 3 months purely out of curiosity.

Initial Curiosity: I embarked on this journey out of curiosity and a desire to understand the benefits of a plant-based diet. However, upon not experiencing any tangible benefits, I returned to an omnivorous diet.

Deepening Motivations: A profound moment occurred when I visited a slaughterhouse in Wisconsin. The harrowing experience led to a sense of deep empathy and a desire to reduce animal suffering. This pivotal moment was followed by spending time with a passionate vegan in high school, which further piqued my interest in veganism.

The Turning Point: Embracing Veganism

My transition to a full vegan lifestyle was marked by a significant personal moment. At 19, after becoming independent from my parents, I encountered a vegetarian who provided me with valuable nutrition tips and guidance on transitioning.

Permanent Commitment: With the support and knowledge I gained, I became a vegetarian, and over 29 years, I have maintained this lifestyle. Being a long-term vegan has not only improved my health but has also deepened my commitment to ethical living and compassion for all beings.

Conclusion

My journey from vegetarian to vegan is a testament to the power of personal experiences, compassion, and health. While some may find the transition challenging, the benefits and peace of mind that come with aligning one's actions with ethical living make it a fulfilling choice. Whether you're interested in health, animal welfare, or both, exploring a plant-based diet could be a life-changing decision.