7 Reasons Why I'm Happier As A Vegetarian

As a kid, meat was a staple in my diet. I couldn't wait to get my hands on a hamburger or some chicken fingers. By the time I reached High School I started cooking my own meals and researching new recipes and found that most of them only consisted of vegetable dishes. Ever since I finally declared myself as a vegetarian (yes, declared because it was a very big decision), I found myself consistently happy.

Being a vegetarian makes me more creative.

Have you ever tried to make black bean quinoa burgers or nuggets out of vital wheat-gluten? Being a vegetarian has made me more willing to try new things and experiment with my tastebuds.

Eating vegetarian makes me conscious of where my food is coming from.

Most people who become vegetarians, become vegetarians because of the cruelty in the meat industry, but why should you stop there? I am more likely to check nutritional labels, and I try to purchase cage-free eggs and look to buy my vegetables from farmers markets.

I have more energy.

I find that when I eat natural foods and more vibrant foods, I have more energy. Having beans as my protein and almond milk in the morning I stay more awake throughout the day.

Finding an all vegetarian restaurant makes dining out way more exciting.

BBQ Jackfruit sandwiches and miso glazed eggplant is way more exciting to a vegetarian than it should be. Dining out can be difficult with a vegetarian diet, especially if you don't want just carbs and cheese, and cooking can get exhausting, so finding a place that feeds your tastebuds is worthwhile.

Being a vegetarian has made me more inclusive.

When cooking for friends and family I don't just think about what would be tasty to eat but what can everyone eat and enjoy. I take into consideration their diets as well as my own.

My diet has become a lifestyle.

I know what you're thinking, being a vegetarian isn't a lifestyle. Since I have stopped eating meat, I have become more conscious of what I am putting into my body and how to take care of it. Working out has become part of my daily routine as well as making sure I am getting essential items in my diet like protein, b-12, and iron.

Being a vegetarian has brought a whole new community into my life.

I'm on at least six different vegan Facebook pages with recipe recommendations and restaurant information. You can find groups in your area with vegetarian/vegan potluck dinners or wellness events that promote the same type of lifestyle.