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Going Vegetarian: All at Once or Gradually?

Some people make the transition to a vegetarian diet all at once. But that’s not for everybody; some people need more time to make the switch.

If you don’t want to go vegetarian all at once, we suggest the following three-step plan:

For the first two weeks, be vegetarian three days a week. Make simple substitutions for animal products in your favorite meals. Instead of meat in tacos, substitute refried beans, peppers, and onions. Instead of sausage in your spaghetti sauce, try veggie sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
For the next two weeks, try being vegetarian five days a week. Sample some new vegetarian recipes and products—your taste buds will be pleasantly surprised at the new variety.
You’ve been nearly vegetarian for almost a month—congratulations! Round out the month with a couple more vegetarian days, and give yourself a pat on the back. If you’re like most people, you’ll find that you feel lighter and more alert on your vegetarian days, and soon you’ll be eating all vegetarian, all the time.

If you want to go vegetarian all at once but need a little encouragement, take our “30-Day Veg Pledge.”