How To Socialise As A New Veggie
So you’ve bit the bullet and made the decision to become a vegetarian or vegan. Great, congratulations and enjoy the rest of your easy, plant-based existence. Err, not so fast. Switching your diet - whether that’s from an omnivore to a vegetarian or a vegetarian to a vegan - almost guarantees you’ll be confronted with a few challenges along the way. But don’t worry, Veggiebuzz has got your back. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be a happy herbivore in a world of carnivores in no time. Who says we can’t all live in peace?
Always bring food. When invited to a social gathering or dinner party, avoid having to awkwardly quiz the host on every ingredient or having your friends worry that you have enough to eat and just bring your own food! Text the host and tell them what you’re bringing so they know how to prepare the menu for everyone else. Tip: guacamole never fails.
Think ahead. When making dinner plans, consider the kinds of cuisines and restaurants that may make a veggie life easier - obviously a steakhouse isn't on the agenda. Italian, for example, is a good go-to for vegetarians whereas Asian restaurants are usually ideal for vegans. Look up the menu online or call the restaurant so they can prepare dishes in advance. (And, for the record, even most steakhouses will serve something you can eat.)
Wear a smile. You may get the occasional question that you have to struggle not to roll your eyes at (these typically involve being stranded on desert islands) and there have even been documented cases in which the arrival of a vegetarian turns everyone else at the party into fully fledged nutritionalists! Don’t get stressed out and don’t preach, just wear a smile, be polite and keep it short.
Sumati Menda
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