I'm vegetarian, I'm not telling you what to do

billsica

I was a vegetarian for over 10 years. Whenever it would come up, people would get very defensive suddenly. I never pushed my beliefs on anyone.
Typically I would get the, why do you hate vegetables to much that you want to eat them? blah blah blah..

My standard response would be, "I was abused by a tomato, so I have no remorse for them."

I just felt uncomfortable whenever people would try to force meat upon me, like I'm sort of outsider. Its not that big a deal, I would eat a sandwich or something before a BBQ or party and bring my own stuff if appropriate.

I had to give it up due to heath reasons. I think I am gluten sensitive, that coupled with distance running and a busy lifestyle. I wasn't succeeding.

chadgard

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

capnrus789

I usually ask questions when I find out somebody is a vegetarian. First it's about their reasons, they about the diet. I ask a guy at work all the time, and he's cool about it. Never pushy, which I appreciate.

But I don't do the "mmmm, bacon" crap either. Becuase I'm not a child anymore. Pluse, more bacon for me.

m1311

The biggest issue I have as a (mostly) vegetarian – I eat Alaskan salmon because I live in Alaska and love wild fish, and I'll eat a little bird on special occasions – is that when conferences offer vegetarian meals, unless I get in line right away, the meat eaters will take their portion and the "vegetarian" option as well, even though it's clearly marked as only for those who chose the specific meal plan. It always looks tasty to them!! Then the folks who've signed up for the vegetarian meal end up eating salad and rice or something like that.

I've helped run several conferences, and we have to actually hide the vegetarian food somewhere in a corner. It never fails that some of the omnivores will still come over and try to get some of that "other" meal.

Other than that, no one seems to care or try to change me. Almost any restaurant, especially the "ethnic" ones, has great options for vegetarians.

diddyk

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

1. I'm not meat cook of the year. I prepare the basics. I also ate meat - 13 or 14 years ago. I am pretty capable of covering chicken and BBQ sauce and figuring it out when it's done. I'm also really capable of following recipes that say "cook for this long" or "it's done when meat is cooked fully." It's not rocket science.

2. Vegetarian meat substitutes are not the staple of my diet, however when I'm in a rush, they are extremely easy to prepare and high in protein. Not exactly healthy because they are processed and high in sodium, but very convenient. It's also really easy to take them to someone's bbq and say "cook it like you would meat." And taste is a matter of preference, some of the fake meats I will not eat, in fact I'll be the first one to say they are terrible. Some taste good.

HotrodsGirl0107

I don't assume anything when people say they are vegetarian. It is just an alternative way of eating. I enjoy vegetarian dishes on a regular basis because I love veggies but I am also a meat eater. I feel that as long as they are not telling me not to eat meat and as long as I am not telling them they should eat meat, then I feel we can accept each other and exist happily here on earth together.

TheYoungys

Some interesting points here. My husband and I are vegetarians (and have been for nearly ten years) and our young son is a pescetarian though he eats very little fish really. We don't ever try to push our choices on others though we frequently get mocked or taunted with the "mmmmmm, I love meat, I don't care where it is from, ha ha ha" attitude or more often just slagged off for being weak, pasty, sickly yada yada. Nothing could be further from the truth but it entertains those type of folk to try to make you feel bad.

Bailey532

This is right on.

Why would you need to announce you're vegetarian? I don't walk up to people and tell them I hate liver. or that I'm lactose intolerant. I won't judge you for not eating meat and you don't judge me for eating meat. Most vegetarians I've met tend to throw it in your face that THEY have made the right choice and the meat eaters are going to die and are cruel to animals.

If you don't make a big deal out of your choices I doubt anyone else cares.

redraidergirl2009

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

1. I have cooked meat before, several times so I know when it's done. I only cooked it once since going vegetarian because my mom asked me to, but after that never again. It's the principle of it and it grossed me out and was depressing. So I don't cook it. I will put in some chicken nuggets in the over or something if my mom asks, but as far as cooking raw meat or anything like that no. In my own apt I do not cook or buy meat. If I lived with someone I would'nt cook it for them either but I would not stop them from buying it because it's not my choice to make. If someone is coming over they should know I'm vegetarian and not to expect meat. I don't think it's the same as a vegetarian going to someone's house because even omi's will eat something without meat, but if they only have meat and no sides it's difficult for a vegetarian to eat anything there. I do not expect someone to cook me something different so I usually eat before or bring my own food.

2. I think the point of meat subs is that you can get a similar taste without killing an animal. They are in no way meant to be healthy. They can be healthier than their meat counterparts for some people if they are watching fat or calories. They are in my diet, but in moderation. I don't have them at every meal or even every day since meat was never a huge part of my diet anyway. I do like black bean burgers opposed to soy ones because they taste better.

redraidergirl2009

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

1. I have cooked meat before, several times so I know when it's done. I only cooked it once since going vegetarian because my mom asked me to, but after that never again. It's the principle of it and it grossed me out and was depressing. So I don't cook it. I will put in some chicken nuggets in the oven or something if my mom asks, but as far as cooking raw meat or anything like that no. In my own apt I do not cook or buy meat. If I lived with someone I would'nt cook it for them either but I would not stop them from buying it because it's not my choice to make. If someone is coming over they should know I'm vegetarian and not to expect meat. I don't think it's the same as a vegetarian going to someone's house because even omi's will eat something without meat, but if they only have meat and no sides it's difficult for a vegetarian to eat anything there. I do not expect someone to cook me something different so I usually eat before or bring my own food.

2. I think the point of meat subs is that you can get a similar taste without killing an animal. They are in no way meant to be healthy. They can be healthier than their meat counterparts for some people if they are watching fat or calories. They are in my diet, but in moderation. I don't have them at every meal or even every day since meat was never a huge part of my diet anyway. I do like black bean burgers opposed to soy ones because they taste better.

thisisme13

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

I used to consume meat so I know how to cook it and what will taste good. I may not eat meat due to my choices ... that doesn't mean my husband or my mother cannot eat meat. I only cook for my husband at home... he eats meat so I continue to cook it for him. Do I like it? No, but again, it's his choice to eat it or not and he chooses to eat meat. I will not say no to cooking it either... not fair to him. Sure he can make his own however I really enjoy cooking and since he is working all day and I am home I do the cooking and cleaning. I know based on years of experience how to cook various things and what tastes good with each kind of meat. If I try some new recipe I have my husband taste it along the way. I don't salt food so that's something each person can add if needed. Whether I try a food I am cooking or not, you may not like it but I might. Everyone has different tastes.

I will not make my husband or anyone else fish though. First off, the smell of it makes me gag. Second, I have never tasted it and never cooked it so I don't know what to put on it, how to cook it, how long to cook it, etc.

And not every vegetarian wants to eat a meat substitute. Meat tastes good... I will give you that. I never had an issue with the taste. My issue is the source. But, in response to the veggie substitutes, I only consume TVP and I only use it for taco "meat". I always loved tacos and find the TVP allows me to still eat tacos. It has no flavour on it's own so I mix it up with some taco seasonging and I'm good to go. I make one pan for me and one pan of hamburger for my husband.

I have always hated the veggie burgers and such. If I want something to BBQ when my husband makes hamburgers I either make my own bean or quinoa burger or I get some veggies to grill.

blondy34

Two things I don't understand, but are tangentially related (or at least have come up) to this thread. Maybe someone could help:
1) How can a vegetarian successfully cook meat for someone else

As an example, I grow and sell organic produce, and love to cook for folks. However, I'm allergic to iceberg and romaine lettuce. So I'll never make, for example, a Caesar Salad for someone, because I can't taste it and verify that it tastes good and adjust the seasoning. I also don't grow either one, because when a CSA member or farmers' market customer considers getting something from us, they always want to know what it tastes like, and to compare quality with whatever they're used to, or from week to week. Since I can't eat it, I can't taste it, and thus I can't answer their questions, so I don't grow it. But several omnivorous folks on this thread of suggested they should be able to expect meat on the menu when a vegetarian prepares their meals, otherwise they're foisting their choices on you. Also, several vegetarians in this thread said they cook meat for their non-vegetarian family members. How does a vegetarian successfully cook meat when they don't taste it to verify and adjust? I guess the larger question is how does anyone successfully cook something they can't or won't eat?

2) What is the deal with vegetarian meat substitutes?

Veggie burgers, veggie riblets ('cause, you know, veggies have rib cages), veggie chicken nuggets, veggie hot dogs... Why do people try to process veggies (or, in most cases, primarily soy) to sort-of taste like an awful version of meat? Meat tastes good. Veggies taste good. Veggies marauding as meat invariably taste awful. What's the point? If you're a vegetarian, I presume you still want your food to taste good, and presumably you actually like vegetables...

As an aside, there are some veggie burgers I like. But they are invariably the ones that make no attempt to taste like meat. For example, they're black bean and corn or something like that, and you can see whole beans and corn and onions and whatnot in them, and they taste like what they're made from, not like a faux cow. That I can understand. Though they're very, very processed (usually - had a home made one once at a pitch in that was outstanding...), the burger for is undeniably very convenient.

I used to consume meat so I know how to cook it and what will taste good. I may not eat meat due to my choices ... that doesn't mean my husband or my mother cannot eat meat. I only cook for my husband at home... he eats meat so I continue to cook it for him. Do I like it? No, but again, it's his choice to eat it or not and he chooses to eat meat. I will not say no to cooking it either... not fair to him. Sure he can make his own however I really enjoy cooking and since he is working all day and I am home I do the cooking and cleaning. I know based on years of experience how to cook various things and what tastes good with each kind of meat. If I try some new recipe I have my husband taste it along the way. I don't salt food so that's something each person can add if needed. Whether I try a food I am cooking or not, you may not like it but I might. Everyone has different tastes.

I will not make my husband or anyone else fish though. First off, the smell of it makes me gag. Second, I have never tasted it and never cooked it so I don't know what to put on it, how to cook it, how long to cook it, etc.

And not every vegetarian wants to eat a meat substitute. Meat tastes good... I will give you that. I never had an issue with the taste. My issue is the source. But, in response to the veggie substitutes, I only consume TVP and I only use it for taco "meat". I always loved tacos and find the TVP allows me to still eat tacos. It has no flavour on it's own so I mix it up with some taco seasonging and I'm good to go. I make one pan for me and one pan of hamburger for my husband.

I have always hated the veggie burgers and such. If I want something to BBQ when my husband makes hamburgers I either make my own bean or quinoa burger or I get some veggies to grill.

First of all, I am a vegetarian and my husband is not, so most of the time I do not prepare meals for him, he cooks his I cook mine, but in the event he's working late and I'm cooking dinner, I will cook chicken or a steak for him. I am a better cook than he is and it isnt rocket science to look at meat and tell when it is done. Does it bother me to cook it? Yes sometimes it does, my belief is that humans were not designed to "eat" animals, because of the way that we are made but that is my belief not his. He is a big boy and has to make his own decisions.

Secondly, I dont believe eating processed food is good for us period, whether it be a "veggie" cutlet or a twinkie, however there are times when I enjoy both of them. I dont eat veggie burgers because I wish I would allow myself to eat a real burger. I eat the ones made out of beans or veggies because I love beans and veggies and I like experimenting with different ways to eat them. It gives me another option to have a cookouts when we are grilling.

Lecterman

I usually ask questions when I find out somebody is a vegetarian. First it's about their reasons, they about the diet.

See, this is what I find silly.

What does it matter to you their reasons? If you find out someone is Jewish, do you ask them why they are Jewish? And after they answer, do you say "I could never be Jewish, I love Jesus too much".

Or what about music, do you ask them why they like classical? And after they answer, do you say "I don't think I could listen to classical, I need my metal".

Yeah, that's how ridiculous it is for vegetarians to get asked these kinds of questions and have to hear your responses.

chadgard

I used to consume meat so I know how to cook it and what will taste good. I may not eat meat due to my choices ... that doesn't mean my husband or my mother cannot eat meat. I only cook for my husband at home... he eats meat so I continue to cook it for him. Do I like it? No, but again, it's his choice to eat it or not and he chooses to eat meat. I will not say no to cooking it either... not fair to him. Sure he can make his own however I really enjoy cooking and since he is working all day and I am home I do the cooking and cleaning. I know based on years of experience how to cook various things and what tastes good with each kind of meat. If I try some new recipe I have my husband taste it along the way. I don't salt food so that's something each person can add if needed. Whether I try a food I am cooking or not, you may not like it but I might. Everyone has different tastes.

I will not make my husband or anyone else fish though. First off, the smell of it makes me gag. Second, I have never tasted it and never cooked it so I don't know what to put on it, how to cook it, how long to cook it, etc.

And not every vegetarian wants to eat a meat substitute. Meat tastes good... I will give you that. I never had an issue with the taste. My issue is the source. But, in response to the veggie substitutes, I only consume TVP and I only use it for taco "meat". I always loved tacos and find the TVP allows me to still eat tacos. It has no flavour on it's own so I mix it up with some taco seasonging and I'm good to go. I make one pan for me and one pan of hamburger for my husband.

I have always hated the veggie burgers and such. If I want something to BBQ when my husband makes hamburgers I either make my own bean or quinoa burger or I get some veggies to grill.

Several good responses to my querries so far, thanks, guys!

So, I guess it's mostly the way I cook that confounds me. I rarely use recipes except in baking (and even then, I often just use ratios that have been developed at culinary schools and over centuries, and ad lib over those). Even in dishes I have made countless times over years, I simply have to taste to season correctly. Very rarely do I not have to adjust something based on flavor, even though I've made the many many times.

On the other hand, I can get past my own preferences in that. For example, I really don't like broccoli. However, I can taste some when we're growing it and determine whether the quality and flavor it good or great, and I can make a good cream of broccoli soup, because I know what good broccoli flavors are. Just don't think I could do it without sampling...

I do agree with you on fish, though! Back when I was a teenager, pondering what to do with my life, I spent a couple of years debating between culinary school and music school. One of the factors that affected my decision (music) was the combination of my allergy to common lettuces combined with my aversion to seafood (which quite likely comes from growing up in Indiana...). While I do love my career now, culinary school probably would have been a better choice - would likely have ended up with about the same salary, but started earning sooner and would have had far smaller student loans.

As for the meat subs, it seems to be the consensus so far is they're more the case of what omnivores think vegetarians want to eat because, gee, meat tastes good. Would that seem accurate?

And, I do understand the taco meat/tvp substitution. In the case of tacos, you can't really taste the meat through the seasoning anyway, so that wouldn't make much difference.

8goodgirl0

I usually ask questions when I find out somebody is a vegetarian. First it's about their reasons, they about the diet.

See, this is what I find silly.

What does it matter to you their reasons? If you find out someone is Jewish, do you ask them why they are Jewish? And after they answer, do you say "I could never be Jewish, I love Jesus too much".

Or what about music, do you ask them why they like classical? And after they answer, do you say "I don't think I could listen to classical, I need my metal".

Yeah, that's how ridiculous it is for vegetarians to get asked these kinds of questions and have to hear your responses.

Brilliant x

flex500

Not sure why my thread was locked (admins did not let me know!) but I think it had some good responses so I'd like to get some more. PLEASE if you want to debate factory farming or something else please don't here because I don't want this thread to get locked too!

When I say I am vegetarian why does the other person assume that I just asked them to not eat meat? I don't understand that. Or why they need to bring up how much they "love"bacon or say "mmmm burgers" as if I cannot have them? I can, I can have vegetarian ones or I can go get one made out of meat. I choose not to eat animals, its not that I can't. So I would like some insight from non-vegetarians, is this your reaction or what do you say to someone you meet and they say they are vegetarian? If that is your reaction, why? Is it threatening that someone doesn't eat animals? Or do you take ot as an opportunity to joke? Or what if your reaction is different?

Also, vegetarians what reactions do you get? How do you respond? Also have you had any flack about ordering vegetarian at a resteraunt?

Also if you bring up that "most vegetarians are pushy" please give an specific in person example or how much more often than not that is the case. This can be with any eating style, paleo, omi, vegan, ect. Not just exclusive to vegetarians.

I would like to stay specific to ethical vegetarians, not people who do so for dietary reasons.

easy answer...many vegetarians I come across have a high and mighty attitude. A sort of "you are not healthy and I am so healthy because I don't eat meat". So we all assume you have that attitude. Also...you don't come across that way so I am not directing that at you. And I can also say now that I am 30 and not a teenager I don't feel the need to bash people for being vegetarians...I eat so many damn veggies i feel like I'm a vegetarian sometimes.

But that is really the reason why. Actually on this forum the vegetarians don't seem to bad but on the bodybuilding sites I go to one pops up here and there and says "your all gonna die mother%$#@&%$". The bodybuilding forums get a little crazy though I'm not sure why anyone would have an issue with the vegetarians on this site lol

I think so many vegetarians give off the vibe of "i'm 100% healthy and much healthier than you because I don't eat meat". In reality that isn't always true. I'd put my health and bloodwork up against anyone and I eat 1/2 pound of red meat a day, 1 pound of chicken, and 12 whole eggs. I am meticulous with my health. It seems many vegetarians have the mentality "you can't care about your health if you eat meat".

I'm an extreme example but I guarantee my wife who eats 8-10 servings of veggies a day is HEALTHIER than most vegetarians BECAUSE she eats around a pound of grass fed beef a week and a dozen cage free omega 3 eggs a week.

It feels like many vegetarians think us non vegetarians are like...

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fesY7V3X5rp47rJyzacsDURah4F1dpDh9yjMREeOd4B/MqVPE5Qba81bx/8Adj+ZDC5NDQsiQ1Cml5UZcmkqlCkxqHiUlAurUAO4SlJkgxuiytGkP3SepUgduHuC7J4lcUpts7pZdjAz+EBIEcAuOKjdWaNXBLVgPR+y2Cy4Zr97wT/5CPktdsyl4Z5n4oL2dh2Cplv/AG2/6v8A8rRbOIyx5rviqRySdsv022UrRxTWKUFEU4U2I+X0Ke9voo546fBYxx/h8Q03j73plS4+9E+obQVGPa6hYxBisIyvTdSqDM0iDO8br7jzWQ2bTfs/E9xULnUa8d1UcbCo3VjtwJBHWFsX2II++Sg2vs+niaLqVQWcNRYtcNHNO4hMpVgZOhx5qvihIAO8x9fdKz2yduGg/wDKYxwbUZanUPs1qf6XZjo7dfgndqdvtpMHdPa6q4HLBBy5hGc8IBMc0rwbq7oxu39s9/VJymW2pwYa0Zj7Td5jiJvqoMEI1u5x1O8lQ0qfmTrzTqpIjwzC55y7HUlR6K7YtKrRbS1yR4mkg5heTHE7ipcdjKNJg70NaSQGF05CbGHOAJFgdV4zicfWpFzW1ajaTjYNJAG+COq7T2kXU+57whpdmI/iiM3ohHiwSUmnTPUcdUL6jThnniWiO7H+I3cNLDnxRvD7Uy04eAXxIcwBkHqvEcBtKpReHNeJHDRw3g3U+0u1WJqte0vAY79LWiwkWzaqM+Llv4Uvz/w6Pq8bXyv+/k9PxFZld808Q6m8ahpBM+RmFnMdivy2Ja51dznQYJFr6zJ0WF2Nj3srsIe5oBuRuB1EcEa/s2rjcQ98nuwYDiIkbsoKD4p9ureK2b/0R6a/j+5Lm2MR+bJIIJPhBaNYMy4a749Fm8ZgRRMOv0m63ezdinDTJkAzfU2jy/pzXne1cU51SozOXNbUdA3C5mFThTtpPBzS5FL0PNFpuFLTCqYR8AhW2uVZgiR4xstE6SdFRxmHDSAJ03lXMfU8DepVGripi2g3puPQs9kTKd9FM3Dk7oUP5g7oHkuB7nbyq5Ebotfl/wCIJJrcKN5SW6sXugoC86uA6D+qRpne5x84+C7mXCQudKvR0/yPpYZs6ZupJ66q22kwcGqjSfe11JjTDso3b01Cs9J/DTEudTrUXGRTIyH+F8ujyMra0Gg6TI4bl5p+F5c2rUd+ggNPUGfn716hh6ZknirLROWyxRDoUwnh6FNpNPH4KQDqVgCY4jfbp9EyozeD9804TwhV62JYPaIHmAVjCc6R0XKd/L6rPdpe0H5YNLGGtnJAAMRAvci4uFX7O9rnV6ncnDOpvcCWkuGUloJgkiRPQoWroNM1DhI5hZrbXbKhh7A95U/cbuP8TtAgfasbVOb9mWUv/pOe38RHi9wWLoYLeVnKhoxsI7d25UxrgajWBrfZaBcTxcbndyVOjRhKo4NFlTqYkqTyXVIM03AJ5qNKAMxJUoxB3FLQexZxLGGQWyrOwe4ouBfQY8Xh2UFwniDYhDX4j963RP7uR4HAjgbFaUbVAtM27Oz2CrHO2kxwNxFotoR8kZweyKLAMtKm2NIYPfvXm2G2g6nB8TSDr9dy1+yu1Jc3M8tgmM05TIG8cOa5JcXJHPZtDdYPFB3GbIou0DSZmSweHncFUKgbRnK4kji21uAiyR201ws9t+Dm/VVsViW746kt5c1zPs/bRZcMKyBtoYqq6oXZmRaGmbmZOghefYzDhtV8cSfUzcnVbXaO0qYlzntGpMET5LDYrFio9zhYH3rv/Tdjn5oxjojYZPBXAPvyVWkxWWq8yMSLaH923qhhCJ44S0dVRLAm49AmMpUpN9FcBaAI++qiYyLhFNm5QRmaCHWMjT6K6VHNJ2yj3c3ldRh2ApC3+4pLdjdSkag4T1suGpyHxSyhcXHZ3UdDjuJ8oCVOk6o4DUkx9lNRfs1TDqsncPv5oxtszwjedlMMKOVphoAJJ3Gwkz5I9iO22Ep2DzUI/cEj/MYCwvap5bh4BJBIBjdcG/KxWawxV26IpWemYv8AEY6UqIHN5n3N+qAY/tri3T+1yD+AAe/VZ6muvpSULGUQrsPaeJrYimx2IrNa9wBh7pj1XquDwLKfsMudXG7nHi5xuSvL+y9D/qaJ4PC9sw9MEXCMcoE1RiO1WErVH08tIuY2btIJBMahDcFhK9PEMe2g4xIM+EXB3r1A4Jh3e9cOz2c/VTfCnLsMuRqPUDNcRug8isl+ImFZ+XNbLlqBzQHAQXSYh3FehvwzBoFgfxaqH8nbU1GD4qvoROmeS1q6NbF7JV8Q3PHdsOjn2nmG6kc0f7G9iAQ2viuraZ38C4bxyXoJH7ojmfklSDKbZ5pifw9c0eGuHHgWls+YJ+ConsFihHip30GZ0/6V6xkDbnX3lQupkmTb4x8kaFtnltfsNiRfvqcjd4oHLNGvksx2k2bWweVxqNdmMGJiYle2Y2wsvLfxNeB3IIzAPJIkjNa9xccEUkBtgDaG1qtEUog95RZU4Rmm3uQt+26pMg5TxGqhxuJfWcaj4GjAGiGtDRZrRuACjw9IErUhrkyEvvM34pzqh4n1KI4gtbENGm9RtqNNsoBWv8G6MoNZOiKYakGtvcqQtjlIULdY5IOVg60W3nTcnDRRTccgpGGykx46OY0TTsLgz1CHUK0mCihKquw7T14poS6gnHsS4eo12+4XahgjgVWNAtNjK7Vq28Q81dTTOaXE0W3Yx3/cd6pIf3Z4pJhc/cvh86AnoCuim86NjqfopqlU8VCKzlyKKO1tkjMI7e4DoPmVoezmDgPcJJsJJnT/AJWbFQ8Stt2UaO5aZnM508iLR6QmisivRNttgdhKhG4B3o4ErH4Vy3uKw0BzT7FQEdJC8/ogtJadQSD1Fk7NEK0irzQFSw7ZCs0mFSsukGezrv8AqKX84XsuD0Xi3Z8n8zR/nC9oweipDRLk2XgurjUimJkOI0Wc2xgmViwPaHBrswB0kAwba6rQ4goJifbF+PyWQCMsawFziBGp09+qr/ns3920R+845R5DU+cLm3qZdhqwDZOQneDIuCDxET5LKYDHsqND6zu6/Z5nSQMz3Fu7fIBKxjVS8X8BPmD5G/wXH17S4ZbTMgi1td3nCzGK7U4cECm45RpDXknqVFV7X0oAMmOLHCfMFYNBzGPleUfiZJdTA3Zj8Fs3bcounu6mU6wRY+R+ULDdpsQaz88QG2Prr00RQHozOBEsAOmf/aExjspmFZqiIjmT99EygZIHH5oPBfjVpEeKxAcbAjqZ+ShZ7QjireKb4iN4Kq0/aQsPJBx9hBl01zLiFJTqCOamwtKTJ0SIkyB2pTgUyu2CUgUGMiQlNA0XMy4LT96oBOu3qQawb236KIlTAoGBbiQYnRJJ7rnqkrWyDigzVM6COqj7vn6KTPwHyTSTyXN2Z1UhoYPu6MbG26cOC0sDqZO/UTYkIVKgxLtE/G/kJNfE2dXtlTDgGsc9m+YkdOKzm1MbTfXLqcgPgwREO39dxQyn98V2vTzDhFwd4K6nFNHOpUw3h65GiIM2jCydDaJZZ48xoURw2JdVgUqb6hO5on3qPQv9XBquzmKzYugP4wvccIbLxLsl2axQxFKtVDaTGOByl2Z53RDbDXiva8JonSpCOVhBq6Uxi6VgFbEITUPjHQ/JEcZVDdfTUnyWZ2ltdtN4tMyIBBO7W9kUgBWsQWuB3g/BeQ0MNFjeBHpotrtTtIWghgAPFwkDyDllqmxq1Y5sOWvLRLodkOkmAbe9FRbA3QOrYe+nRSbSwtMMplgdJb4idC7MfZ5RHvTsM5wMVQ62+J+CPPwNOtTaMxLWiBlItJm/qkcJIZSRi2ABQY0iOANpieenktm/YFFjZguPN30Wf2vgZDQ2BckC+um4LIDMhtNwzACbDeANeEKHAPDazHHRrmk8wIT9rUi2oQ4QQB/yFUpjxAEnyE+6US3GLG1CXudOrifUym7Oo56ka23J1Sl1npb71UmyWeM9ELQeWMllk1XDQYuOoSOcCJMIvhwXEAkQd7gXD0AJ9FwURNvCfd6HRB0SAxMp0q5isNviOY08wq4p8UrQUyIp0qY4Q6i/JQOplpvIPNKMcKllQgp732PRYILICSQplJdBzhk1p0BPT6lcBceA63+ClLkx1ULnUUX7Ms4LDNd7RJ9w9yqbTogHwiN1k+jtBrDx6KriMZnNm68U8U7ElVDg1dc4xwTHPmOi4ui6I7OmES2PtepQPgu3e06HpFweiHimVu/w12CyqalZ4DiwhrQdASCS6OMCB5pe6G6M0/ZjaFSqGOfSdTGYe0Zm+60jzXo+E0WZbhMpB5j4rSYQ2SsYIsVPaOPyeEXcfdPxPAKwXQ0nWAT6BZhu0WtHeOeObjvceHw8lkZss1ySDJPO9z1PyCyfaKjJZlbETcDpqUSrbbDj4QTzNlA8PdwHqmJuaMdtVr9YPoVSeXCmyCQDJN48o8wtriMC4jcgWPwZAMgQmjgDnZQ2dipApuJF7RutOvmp6uMjxU5bUYJcB7L2gwZ9FUrU2sdIM6G3MRC7QrTRIGXM+WgDWSbl3SU+AWHcZipYCN4BHmJWM2jtWrTxGamZawAFhu11pMjz9y0WLeAGtGgAHpZZKqC4udFiSfKT8lAqgJtOq6pWc536iOgsFawey3iSWmSLEQZHKOYUdanrLbF3yTzUDQIsYiZnfu4LOPZFeLmfHK0UMViALCZ5iOV13ZLjLj0+/ioMQZJj36q3spvtHmk6pIpy8s+XLNnsHbVJjSKtOToIi43zKo18pc5zW5WkkgTMBD6LRKuh4HRc0eGMZOS9iOTqiOo3eP6FV/yd7aESPorDqm/3BdxNcMyjgJceF5j3BXQjIsKxXThmuEOAKr4UTuRSlTU2xwJithb6Z8j9UJxVFzAQ4Qt0ykON0MxzAZBA+MpkBmMhJGX4Bkm3vSVLJ9WU6xsqBKSSCGZwJw1CSSIpdYLKRJJJLZaJ1egfhI497WG7K227VdSRhsMtHpdb2fMfJEsKkkqkC6fZd/KfgV4riapyMubMtc28R0SSTQ2JPQV2fQaWCWtNt4CudmnGagmwdYbhroNySSp6ZBhrELO7a9g9QkkkRkZir7Xr8CubFFyf4fmkkqf4sePok2gfn8EIo6DoPgkkucsDdrOMxNvD8Cq1X9H8v+5ySSJZA/Hi6l2Z7PmkklloX2Fae5WKuiSSmgsjYb+RQzGGzeZ9V1JFbFD2BCK0tySSl7HHgKjjfZXUk6MBXm6SSSIh/9k=[/img]

HappyElizabeth

I have been a vegetarian since birth (hippie parents, ugh!). So, that makes it 42 years that I've never even tried meat, fish or poultry (I eat eggs and dairy). You know what? Most people, even my close friends have no idea I am vegetarian until I tell them. I laugh at "new" vegetarians who feel the need to announce it to people everywhere they go. Also, I am not convinced being a vegetarian is any healthier, so I don't get the "holier than thou" attitude many vegetarians take.

squirrelzzrule22

I'll summarize it this way: my meat eating friends and I will always ensure there is something for our vegetarian friend to eat when we cook or go out. Conversely, if the vegetarian friend is making the plan or hosting, she would never ensure there is meat where we go, instead would take us to a veggie only place or only cook vegetarian things rather than considering both herself and the alternative eating lifestyle, as we would do for her. Though she is a dear friend I think this aptly summarizes the way vegetarians feel superior and want to foist their lifestyle upon you even when they claim not to. She is always quick to say "oh of course I don't care if you eat meat....(insert mumbled comment about how she just 'disagrees' because its unhealthy unnatural and cruel..." That is NOT being accepting.

There are places that don't have anything for a vegetarian/vegan to eat. So that's nice that you'll find some place that has a couple of things she could order....

As for your complaints.... When she takes you to a Vegetarian restaurant.... You still have 100% of the menu to choose from. What's the problem? You're kind of sounding like, all you eat is meat and you can't eat anything from a plant.

You're just re-making my point. Its about CONSIDERATION OF OTHERS. We make every effort to consider her preferences, yet oftentimes vegetarians (not all, but many I've encountered) don't have the same consideration and in fact are AGGRESSIVELY against considering your preferences. Of course I can eat veggie things, in fact I don't eat much meat simply out of personal taste buds, but I wouldn't make a friend go to a Chinese restaurant if she doesn't really like Chinese food. CAN she eat it and not DIE? Of course, but I'm being CONSIDERATE. But to extend the analogy, a "Chineseatarian" wouldn't pay that consideration.

Are all like this? Of course not. But as I said I chose that anecdote to summarize because that is the sort of ATTITUDE that many people are responding to when they are critical of vegetarians. Personally, I believe in live and let live but I believe that goes BOTH WAYS. Respect others' choices.

squirrelzzrule22

I'll summarize it this way: my meat eating friends and I will always ensure there is something for our vegetarian friend to eat when we cook or go out. Conversely, if the vegetarian friend is making the plan or hosting, she would never ensure there is meat where we go, instead would take us to a veggie only place or only cook vegetarian things rather than considering both herself and the alternative eating lifestyle, as we would do for her. Though she is a dear friend I think this aptly summarizes the way vegetarians feel superior and want to foist their lifestyle upon you even when they claim not to. She is always quick to say "oh of course I don't care if you eat meat....(insert mumbled comment about how she just 'disagrees' because its unhealthy unnatural and cruel..." That is NOT being accepting.

It seems like you are assuming all vegetarians are like your friend. Not all vegetarians feel superior or that their lifestyle is better than someone elses.

Do you realize how hard it can be to find a decent vegetarian meal at most restaurants? At least those around me your options are a salad (which you have to ask for no meat because they always include it and don't alter the price... $13 for a freakin salad) or a frozen, processed and horrible tasting veggie burger. And when people make food at home for a vegetarian they are far too often just picking up some terrible veggie burger... one reason why I will always offer to bring a meal or my own food.

Well where we live in a major metropolitan city this is not even mildly an issue. Of course its not like that everywhere, and of course not every vegetarian is like this. I even stated very clearly that obviously not everyone is like that. I'm sure it must be obnoxious for you that your area does not cater to vegetarians.