OPINION: Steaks have been raised in vegan challenge

FRUIT for lunch was never something I thought existed.

My meals have comprised vegetables, soy and a squeeze of lemon juice for dinner. And another firm favourite is a wombok salad for dinner and lunch. Picture: Elena Elisseeva

FRUIT for lunch was never something I thought existed.

I mean, I love fruit and everything but it used to be one of my favourite snacks.

That was until I took up the challenge to go vegan for a month.

I've always been a pretty healthy eater and never overdosed on red meat, so when I decided to give the "trendy vegan lifestyle" a go I thought it would be a pretty easy switch.

Four days in and I'm not going to lie - it's a lot tougher than I thought.

I have managed to nearly vomit after eating a vegan pie (yes they exist) on day one, and I actually threw up during a legs session at the gym as my body detoxes and gets used to the recent change.

My meals have comprised vegetables, soy and a squeeze of lemon juice for dinner. And another firm favourite is a wombok salad for dinner and lunch.

I started on a Monday after being away all weekend, so after this coming weekend's meal prepping, next week should be an easier transition.

I was set up with a bag of vegan goodies to get me started - some that taste great, and others well … not so good.

I have definitely increased my intake of avocado on crackers and I'm excited that I can still eat peanut butter.

It is only a month and I do feel good about doing my small part against animal cruelty by cutting out all animal products from my diet.

So far the pros of going vegan are:
1. My digestive system is working a lot more effectively.
2. I don't feel any bloating
3. I am cutting back on a lot of fat through dairy
 

So far the cons of going vegan are:
1. There isn't as much variety in what you can eat
2. Going shopping is more time-consuming as I now have to spend more time reading labels
3. I'm finding it hard to fill up
4. At this point I don't have as much energy
5. BBQ's are a tough gig when you can't eat meat

Do you think you could give up meat for a month? Join the discussion and tell us below.

Originally published as OPINION: Steaks have been raised in vegan challenge