The 30 Day Vegetarian Experiment

I have decided to conduct an experiment of sorts. I am becoming a vegetarian for 30 days. Why? I could glibly say "Why not?" Of course that explanation will just not suffice. I have actually been curious about vegetarians for some time. Almost as if they were an alien species. As I live in Texas, vegetarians are in many ways an alien species. The home of beef and BBQ is not exactly a vegetarian paradise. Although, as with all generalizations, this stereotype does not tell the whole story. Most Texas restaurants offer vegetarian options, but I digress.

Back to why I am trying this experiment. I have noticed that my diet over the past few years has shifted from primarily fruits and vegetables to primarily meat and carbs. These are my husband's two primary food groups. Meats and pasta being among his favorites along with plenty of white rice and more meat. Vegetables have become a condiment.

As a life-long lover of all things Thomas Jefferson, I remembered his quote: “[I eat meat] “as a condiment to the vegetables which constitute my principal diet." (Thomas Jefferson). Epiphany! I needed to change my condiments.

I have actually started craving fruits and vegetables. Mystifying I know. My friends will tell you, I am a pretty much all-in kind of person. If I want to eat more fruits and vegetables why not take meat out of the equation? At least for the next thirty days. I plan to observe if there are any noticeable changes: weight, bloating, less or more fatigue, etc. I figure 30 days would be a good amount of time to observe any benefits or drawbacks.

So now I begin the journey! I start with a lovely bowl of fresh fruit. Stay tuned for vegetarian recipes and tales from the green side!

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Zester

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30 Day Vegetarian Experiment: Southern Curtesy vs. Scientific Method

My kind niece and nephew invited us over to their home for a craft beer tasting. I was thinking beer, maybe a few snacks. I should be safe with a veg and dip or cheese, right? Unknown to me, my niece had spend a large part of her busy day making dinner for us : Boef Bourguignon. Just to present all the factors in my decision making process. (1) My niece has two small boys under three years old. (2)My niece was unaware of my experiment when she planned her menu. So now I had a moral dilemma. Do I keep my experiment pure and tell my niece although I appreciate your hard work, I'll just have rice? Or do I follow Southern Courtesy, prioritize her feelings and just eat the dinner. Those of you who know me already know the answer: I just ate the dinner. It was delicious! Although I know science requires rigor and sacrifice, I believe the sacrifice should be mine alone, not my sweet niece who ...

Tracy Lee : Food, Style and General Musings

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