Hey Loves,

Back in 2013, I adopted a vegetarian lifestyle for a about five months. I never intended to become a vegetarian, it sort of happened as a result of fasting for a few weeks of eating only fruits and veggies. I really enjoyed eating fruits and veggies and I liked how my body and spirit responded to the change. Even after I incorporated meat back into my diet last year, my life was changed due to my vegetarian experience. I wanted to share how being vegetarian has changed my life.  Before I begin, I have decided to go back vegetarian because I function best eating that particular way. I will be transitioning to this lifestyle. So here I go.

• I have learned how to be creative with meals and snacks.  Smoothies have been a go to options for me since my schedule can be full and hectic.  I normally freeze fresh fruits or buy frozen fruits.  I started adding veggies to my smoothies as well.  I purchased a Magic Bullet to make my smoothies.

I also like mixing fruit.  Strawberries are my favorite.

I like eating fruits for late night snacks. Here one my favorites-strawberries, kiwis, and bananas.

Here are some lunch options I used when I first went vegetarian.

I got different variations of these veggies trays for lunch and snacks from Wal-Mart for $1.97. They also have fruit trays similar to this.

• I began to be more proactive about researching foods that are not good for my asthma.  I learned a lot through trial and error. I discovered that dairy is not the best for asthma and allergy sufferers.  I started using soy milk because I like milk and it’s diary free.  It’s been almost two years.  I use different vegetable oils instead of butter.  I’m not 100% dairy free because I may use cheese occasionally for salads or when I go out to eat.

I also found out that gluten sensitivity is common for individuals with asthma.  I realize that I am gluten sensitive.  After I took gluten out of my diet I noticed big change with my digestion.  I buy gluten-free pasta, cereals, and other products.  I found gluten-free cake mix.

Gluten-free pasta mixed with fresh broccoli and peppers.

• I found new, healthier ways to cook my favorite dishes without meat.  I like flavorful dishes.  I like cooking spaghetti.  I started adding mushrooms and spinach instead of meat to my spaghetti.  I also use gluten-free noodles.  I’m a southern girl and I like soul food.  I liked greens.  Normally, greens are cooked with pork for seasoning.  I found a recipe that uses fresh garlic, onions, and other spices that taste amazing.  I tested the recipes with my family and they love it.  My mom loves these recipes.  I like making homemade vegetable soups with mushrooms instead of meat.

• Going vegetarian opened my eyes to trying out vegetarian/vegan restaurants and new dishes when I go out to eat.  Some dishes are not good and some are not so good.
• 

  A Vegetarian dish from UNO’s

  I enjoy veggie pizzas.

  

  Veggie Pizza

I was at R. Thomas Deluxe Grill in Atlanta, GA trying an organic smoothie.

•  I learned that even if you are not vegetarian you can incorporate the diet into your eating routine.  For example, I would eat strictly vegan for a week or two to reset my system.  Also, you can go meatless for a day or for a meal.
• Being vegetarian helped me to be more discipline this is why I am choosing to eat this way.

I just wanted to share my experience.  I will also be sharing my experiences from here on out as I learn and grown in my nutrition.  Talk to you soon!

Brandi