How Long Did It Take to Switch from Vegetarian to Vegan?

My journey from vegetarian to vegan has been a slow and deliberate one, spanning over three years, marking a significant shift in my dietary habits. It’s not a decision that occurred overnight, but one that evolved with time, fueled by a deep commitment to animal welfare, environmental concerns, and personal health.

The Beginning: A Vegetarian Life

My journey towards vegetarianism began in 1978. At that time, I decided to stop eating meat and dairy products because I didn't want to consume animals unless it was absolutely necessary. This decision was immediate and unequivocal; I haven't knowingly eaten meat or dairy products since.

The Path to Veganism

The move to veganism was different. It was a slower transition driven by a combination of ethical, environmental, and health concerns. Previously, witnessing the harsh realities of animal agriculture at an abattoir during a school tour left a profound impact on me.

I had a deep-seated love for animals and couldn't bear the thought of inflicting harm on them, either directly or indirectly. Moreover, studies showed that a plant-based diet was healthier and could prevent many diseases prevalent in western societies.

As I delved deeper into the health benefits of a vegan lifestyle, I realized that a diet without animal products could provide the nutrients I was used to getting from meat, dairy, and eggs. This realization made the transition smoother, although I still faced challenges, particularly in giving up dairy, which I had an intolerance to.

The Process of Transition

My approach to transitioning from vegetarian to vegan was gradual. I started by reducing my consumption of red meat, then chicken, and eventually fish. I slowly replaced my meat meals with vegetarian and vegan substitutes, expanding my palate and dietary choices along the way.

Studies suggest that a vegan diet can help prevent diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, heart disease, high cholesterol, hypertension, and obesity, which are prevalent in Western cultures. This information provided me with a strong motivation to make this change.

While some people make the switch from meat to vegetarian/vegan overnight, this can cause a shock to the body, leading to withdrawal symptoms for about two weeks until the body adjusts. For those who make the transition gradually, by replacing one or two meat meals a week with vegan meals, the process can be smoother and less disruptive.

My personal experience was similar. I took about nine months to stop eating flesh foods, but the process of giving up dairy took longer, even though I had an intolerance to it. This gradual process allowed my body to adjust and provided a foundation for maintaining a healthy vegan lifestyle.

In the end, the transition was worth it. I’ve been vegan for over 30 years now, and I believe it has had a positive impact not only on my health but also on the environment and the lives of animals. For anyone considering making this transition, I recommend starting slowly, doing your research, and finding what works best for you.