Vegetarian and Vegans out there...

AusteenaHayes

Okay so I use to be a full vegetarian for two and a half years. However I had to go off that diet and incorporate mainly only chicken to my diet because I suddenly became severely underweight. But I want to go back to being full vegetarian.

Only I do not want to make the mistake most do on consuming too much carbs and starches. I'm also a long distance runner as well and workout 7 days a week.

veganbettie

I've been vegan for 7 years....never underweight, always the other way.

Just make sure you're eating enough and you shouldn't have an issue.

AusteenaHayes

I've been vegan for 7 years....never underweight, always the other way.

Just make sure you're eating enough and you shouldn't have an issue.

Thanks I will be sure to. I am going to be a better vegetarian than I was before. And quick question, should I up my fiber and protein to stay full longer? What foods help you?

veganbettie

salads always help me, just tons of greens and then things that are heavy in protein.

beans!

I really enjoy fake meats....seitan is awesome....and I love me some carbs and bread. yum.

marissanik

I had the same problem! Strict vegetarian for 3 years, now I eat only chicken and then go meatless whenever I can. It's tough! Good luck

AusteenaHayes

I had the same problem! Strict vegetarian for 3 years, now I eat only chicken and then go meatless whenever I can. It's tough! Good luck

I am the exact same way! Glad I'm not alone on this boat. :-)

ChancyW

I've officially been a vegetarian for 14 years and I find that I have to work to maintain a healthy weight. Calorie dense foods come in all forms.

stephenmakin1

I have been vegetarian forever, since childhood, and vegan since new year (though it's my 5th attempt at veganism but this time it seems to be ok). I'm going to be blunt here because I'm assuming I'm talking to someone with the same value-system as me when it comes to meat.

I would start off by watching a you tube video of chicken slaughter to motivate you. I know this sounds awful but it's good to remind yourself that it's about the animals not about you. If the only way you avoid murdering animals is to eat slightly more carb than you would otherwise it's not the end of the world! Vegans and vegetarians probably live slightly longer so it's unlikely to harm your health in the long term.

Now what is hard when you are vegetarian or vegan is the 'grilled chicken and salad meal' that is the staple of so many weight loss plans. Never mind - those plans are for meat eaters, and our diets are slightly different. Our macronutients tend to be mashed in together a bit more because we eat more plants.

My favourite high protein vegan foods are setian, tempeh and tofu, but these are fairly hard to come across at the average store. though I can get it all easily in a big city like Edinburgh http://www.vegetariantimes.com/video/how-to-make-seitan/. I also do rely a lot on various fake meat products, Linda McCartney's sausagues for instance some of them are vegan, all are obviously vegetarian. My wife who is new (pressured my me!) to vegetarianism hates them, but they are my comfort food from childhood.

Other options are - soya mince - use it to make 5 bean chilli which is low fat and high protein, you can also use it anywhere you would use mince, you can skip the rice if you would like. Low GI carbs may help you avoid the bloated feeling that you get with large amounts of high GI carb.

stephenmakin1

Because you are an athlete and work out a lot you may find this web page useful.

http://www.nomeatathlete.com/vegetarian-diet-athletes/


I have to admit I don't work out that much - though I usually either run 5k or swim 1 mile a day, is that a lot, but I'm still trying to loose weight rather than maintain. I don't doubt I'll have any trouble when I am maintaining though.

Hummus. I forgot hummus. Hummus is like air for some vegans. Not for me. Not allowed it on my current calorie restriction :-(

AusteenaHayes

I have been vegetarian forever, since childhood, and vegan since new year (though it's my 5th attempt at veganism but this time it seems to be ok). I'm going to be blunt here because I'm assuming I'm talking to someone with the same value-system as me when it comes to meat.

I would start off by watching a you tube video of chicken slaughter to motivate you. I know this sounds awful but it's good to remind yourself that it's about the animals not about you. If the only way you avoid murdering animals is to eat slightly more carb than you would otherwise it's not the end of the world! Vegans and vegetarians probably live slightly longer so it's unlikely to harm your health in the long term.

Now what is hard when you are vegetarian or vegan is the 'grilled chicken and salad meal' that is the staple of so many weight loss plans. Never mind - those plans are for meat eaters, and our diets are slightly different. Our macronutients tend to be mashed in together a bit more because we eat more plants.

My favourite high protein vegan foods are setian, tempeh and tofu, but these are fairly hard to come across at the average store. though I can get it all easily in a big city like Edinburgh http://www.vegetariantimes.com/video/how-to-make-seitan/. I also do rely a lot on various fake meat products, Linda McCartney's sausagues for instance some of them are vegan, all are obviously vegetarian. My wife who is new (pressured my me!) to vegetarianism hates them, but they are my comfort food from childhood.

Other options are - soya mince - use it to make 5 bean chilli which is low fat and high protein, you can also use it anywhere you would use mince, you can skip the rice if you would like. Low GI carbs may help you avoid the bloated feeling that you get with large amounts of high GI carb.

I actually read an article on what they plan on doing to the chicken in China and then shipping it to us. Apparently they are possibly going to thrown in these weird ingredients and you will have no idea what they'll be. I won't let them do that and put that sort of thing in my body. Plus, I like animals. Why would they harm the animals like that?

Really if someone came after me with a gun or something to slaughter me, I would probably attack them too. If we quit messing with them, they won't mess with us. Simple right? I mean, sure their animals but they DO have feelings too.

AusteenaHayes

Because you are an athlete and work out a lot you may find this web page useful.

http://www.nomeatathlete.com/vegetarian-diet-athletes/


I have to admit I don't work out that much - though I usually either run 5k or swim 1 mile a day, is that a lot, but I'm still trying to loose weight rather than maintain. I don't doubt I'll have any trouble when I am maintaining though.

Hummus. I forgot hummus. Hummus is like air for some vegans. Not for me. Not allowed it on my current calorie restriction :-(

I love that site! So choke full of great tips for the vegetarian and vegan athletes. ????

CupcakesMom2

Like a few of the posters have already mentioned in some shape or form - beans. Seriously I can't say enough good things about beans, they are super healthy. There are so many types of beans out there and tons of recipies once you look around.

Oatmeal is also good.

Eating some nuts and seeds (raw, no salt) is also good, give you some fat and lots of nutrients.

babbyb1

Would like to become friends with vegetarians/vegans. While I am a meat eater, I recognize the fact that:

I don't get enough calories from veggies
I don't get enough nutrition from veggies
I get bored with the veggies taste the same way, time and time again.

If anyone wants to add me as a friend, feel free.

Annie

itsbasschick

can't see how chicken helped unless you weren't eating enough protein. if that's the case, try eating low fat greek yogurt or cottage cheese or eggs. while i like beans and quinoa, they're not that high in protein, and beans aren't a complete protein, while eggs and dairy and soy are complete proteins. and while nuts and seeds are yummy and good, my favorite calorie dense food is avocado.

aldousmom

Hi!

I'm a vegan ultra-marathoner (trail runner). I maintain a healthy weight by eating a whole foods plant based diet (no protein supplements or protein shakes or whatever), but I'm also interested in reading dr. mcdougalls book "The Starch Solution" to see what that's all about.

I followed the information from Dr. Furhman, The Engine 2 Diet, The China Study, Neal Barnard, Doug Lisle, Brendan Brazier, Happy Herbivore, and also Dr. McDougall (they all have books, websites, and facebook pages) to get started and found that I've not had troubles with maintaining my weight, health or energy, even while in my "busy" season running one or two ultra-marathons per month.

Good luck!

mathmatt

I've been vegan for 7 years. I go through sputs of being highly active but I was lucky to learn about fueling up right early on. I love Brendan Brazier's book Thrive. He's a vegan triathlete and his book is everything he learned on his way to being able to perform at his best. There are a bunch of recipes in it that I really like, especially the "pizza" and "burger" ones. Also, Tim VanOrden is a raw vegan distance runner and has some great stuff on his website and youtube channel.

mathmatt

Hi!

I'm a vegan ultra-marathoner (trail runner). I maintain a healthy weight by eating a whole foods plant based diet (no protein supplements or protein shakes or whatever), but I'm also interested in reading dr. mcdougalls book "The Starch Solution" to see what that's all about.

I followed the information from Dr. Furhman, The Engine 2 Diet, The China Study, Neal Barnard, Doug Lisle, Brendan Brazier, Happy Herbivore, and also Dr. McDougall (they all have books, websites, and facebook pages) to get started and found that I've not had troubles with maintaining my weight, health or energy, even while in my "busy" season running one or two ultra-marathons per month.

Good luck!

I agree with everything about this post. Thanks, you gave me a few new things to check out.

redraidergirl2009

Oh yea beans. Beans are magic. Healthy carbs, protein, fiber. Just had me some refried jalapeño beans in a tortilla.

ToeMayToes

Hi! I would like to know how you guys started and how you "stuck" with it... I am very interested in becoming mostly vegetarian/ some vegan. Reasons: I feel like we were meant for this diet, very much against animal cruelty and it's environmentally sound... Would very much appreciate tips for beginners! Thanks!!!

aldousmom

Hi! I would like to know how you guys started and how you "stuck" with it... I am very interested in becoming mostly vegetarian/ some vegan. Reasons: I feel like we were meant for this diet, very much against animal cruelty and it's environmentally sound... Would very much appreciate tips for beginners! Thanks!!!

I listed some sources of info in my post above...maybe something there will help you. Good luck!

pcotter54

There is a group on MFP called "Happy Herbivores" where you might find recipes, advice, friends or all three!

weightliftingaddict

You work out seven days/wk? Wow. Gotta have my rest days! As for vegetarianism, I grew up that way and was one for over half my life. Once I introduced meat, I was having it six days/wk. Eventually, I reached the point of feeling so weighed down and went one month without any meat. I felt worlds better and then further cleaned up my diet. I did reintroduce small servings of meat, but now only have it once/wk (maybe twice), and fish several times/wk.

I eat lots of beans, nuts, veggies of all sorts, seeds, fruits, roots, squash....make something different everyday and spice/herb the junk out of everything, and love everything from greek, middle eastern, indian, to italian .....you name it. Never a dull meal! I juice daily as well and make all sorts of things like peanut butter, sesame paste, my own flour, you name it. Though my diet is not 100% perfect, I do avoid processed food within reason, run from grease, limit dairy, and keep my alcohol to two or three beers/wk. Never felt better! This might not work for everyone, but does my body good. The hardest part was developing new habits -was a PITA at first. Now I enjoy it.

leslime8

Hi Fellow Vegans and Vegetarians:

I'm new to the forum, but not to MFP. I'm 50, 5'4", run to stay fit, and have been vegan about 9 years. I've fought my weight since I was ten years old, but since becoming vegan have had an easier time of maintaining a lower weight. Still, I have 15-20 pounds to lose, and it's sometimes been pretty frustrating.

It's normalizing to see other plant eaters and regular exercisers who also struggle with weight.

I look forward to contributing to the bean and legume enthusiasm, as well as sharing meal ideas.

Oh yes, I also enjoy "No Meat Athlete"!

AusteenaHayes

Hi! I would like to know how you guys started and how you "stuck" with it... I am very interested in becoming mostly vegetarian/ some vegan. Reasons: I feel like we were meant for this diet, very much against animal cruelty and it's environmentally sound... Would very much appreciate tips for beginners! Thanks!!!

Well I would like to tell you what not to do. And that is, do not go around those who do eat meat and talk about how much much you hate meat and don't like it. Their sensitive, well some are and don't like hearing you trash talk their diet. Also when going vegetarian, start off slowly. Take out one kind of non-vegetarian item from your diet. That way you won't shock your body too much. Like for me I removed red meat and then stuck to chicken for a while and when I was ready I removed that as well.

redraidergirl2009

Hi! I would like to know how you guys started and how you "stuck" with it... I am very interested in becoming mostly vegetarian/ some vegan. Reasons: I feel like we were meant for this diet, very much against animal cruelty and it's environmentally sound... Would very much appreciate tips for beginners! Thanks!!!

It's not like a fad diet you "stick to" for most people. It's a moral thing for most people. People in general don't cheat on their morals as much as fad diets. That being said it's not always an overnight thing but it is for some people. Evaluate why being vegetarian is important to you.

leggup

Hello! I've been a lacto-ovo vegetarian for 14-15 years. I gained weight because of alcohol, pure and simple. My diet/lifestyle does include a lot of carbohydrates. I don't have a problem staying in my calorie allotment while still consuming a lot of carbohydrates and fat.

I get most of my protein from meat substitutes (gardein and quorn are my favorite brands, though I've been eating a lot of Morningstar for lunch), extra firm tofu, and beans/lentils. I am learning to cook more with vegetables outside of my comfort zone thanks, in part, to pinterest. I cooked with rhubarb the other week. That was a learning experience. I also eat a lot of Indian and Ethiopian foods when I go out to eat with my husband. Both cultures have a lot of vegetarian dishes.

greenstar25

Listen to the advice of aldousmom! Read the books she recommends, and you will be 100% ok, guaranteed! Also, check out Angela Liddon's website "OhSheGlows", lots of great healthy, vegan, delicious, easy recipes. Oh yeah, and have one rest day a week ;-)

numinousnymph

I've been vegan for around 10 months. I, too, try to avoid things such as bread, pasta, and other carbs that aren't directly from fruits or vegetables. Mainly, I love to just snack throughout the day on fruits and veg in order to stave away hunger in between meals. I'll have a big bowl of steamed vegetables (add some seasoning if I want), some melon, berries, apple, pear, or peach... usually once in between meals. They're low calorie and natural, so I don't worry about those kinds of carbs as much. I do still try to avoid eating too many carbs (like 50g - 100g over my goal) per day, so if I've had a good amount of carbs earlier in the day I don't eat, say, a potato, rice, or beans at dinner. I don't know if your question was mainly about carbs but that's my input on that, lol.

mizztanjo

Been a vegetarian for 9 almost 9 months, maintained my weight...never went up or down. But I do feel better!

What were you eating while vegetarian that caused you to get underweight?

itzabellaa

I've been vegan now for about 3 years (and vegetarian for several years before that), evolving and changing first for health then ultimately for ethical reasons.

I found a whole new world of food when I went vegan - my favorite resources for recipes are Oh She Glows, any of Dreena Burton's cookbooks, Choosing Raw (site and new cookbook!), etc. I have discovered some food sensitivities along the way that make things a bit more challenging, but I definitely don't feel deprived. I feel better eating the way I do now, for sure.

goneundone

Legumes! I stay away from the fake meat products because they are so over processed with many added ingredients. I focus on black eyed peas, black beans, lentils, navy beans, lima beans... beans beans beans! Add some rice and you have yourself a complete protein.