Background:

As I sit here eating a hamburger, I think it is time to reflect on my monthly challenge for July – 2016… to be a vegetarian for a month. I LOVE vegetables, beans, fruits, etc, but have never been by any means a vegetarian or a vegan. I enjoy meats of all types and do eat them often. This month, however, there would be no meat of any kind on the menu.

Observations:

I found that the only time this challenge was challenging for me was when I went out to restaurants with limited vegetarian options. While my friends devoured their favorite meat options I was looking at overpriced veggie options that I could have made sooooo much more cheaply at home! The options were good, but I did feel limited compared to my meat-eating counterparts.

Otherwise, I loved everything I eat over the month. I always felt satisfied, I ate a ton and enjoyed every bite. I do not need meat to enjoy food… I just enjoy eating meat : ) I had no noticeable change in energy level or strength in the gym. Life went on as normal. I may have felt a little clearer in my thought processes, but I am not certain about this.

Another observation is that I did have a fair bit of gas during the challenge. Well, I mean more so than usual. The third day in particular was somewhat of an uncomfortable day, but this was more the exception to the rule and eventually I did feel more normal in my belly.

Successful?

Absolutely!!! This was a great challenge. I did not eat any meat for the month and had no issues doing it. The day the challenge ended, however, I went straight back to meat and have not turned back. I learned that I do love to eat meat and will continue to do so, but… I also have a re-appreciation for veggies, beans, fruits, dairy, etc… and will continue to enjoy them in high quantities for a healthier, more balanced diet.