Things I learned the hard way—so you don’t have to.
When I first went vegan, I had visions of glowing skin, endless energy, and angel choirs serenading me through the produce aisle. Some of that happened (minus the choirs), but the journey wasn’t all smooth bowls and self-satisfaction. There were bumps. Missteps. Digestive drama. And a few moments of, “Wait—can vegans eat this?”
If I could go back in time and give myself a few pointers, here’s what I’d say. Not to discourage. Just to prepare—for the reality behind the green smoothies.
It’s Easy to Eat Vegan and Still Be Unhealthy
Oreos are vegan. So is soda. So are fries. Being plant-based isn’t a health pass if your meals still come from packages and freezers. I learned (eventually) that kale isn’t going to cancel out a daily diet of vegan pizza and coconut milk ice cream.
Lesson: Whole food matters. Labels can lie.
Not Everyone Will Clap for You—And That’s Okay
Some friends will be supportive. Others will eye your tofu like it’s an alien invasion. I spent way too much energy trying to justify my choices instead of just living them. You don’t owe anyone a defense. Just a fork and maybe a bite of what you’re eating if they’re curious.
Lesson: Eat well, live well, don’t preach!
Read Every Label—Yes, Every Label
You’d be shocked where animal products hide: in crackers, wine, sugar, bread, even toothpaste. I wasn’t trying to be perfect, but I also wasn’t expecting to feel like a part-time detective. Over time, you get faster. But early on? Expect surprises.
Lesson: Milk powder is lurking everywhere. Be ready.
Digestive Changes Are Real (and Temporary)
At first, my stomach staged a protest. Too much fiber too fast. Beans? Love them. Beans for every meal? Not so much. It takes time for your gut to adjust. I almost gave up in week two—thankfully, I didn’t.
Lesson: Start slow. Your microbiome needs time to catch up.
You Have to Supplement B12 (and Maybe More)
VERY IMPORTANT. This one’s not optional. B12 isn’t in plant foods, and deficiency can cause nerve damage. No, you can’t just “eat clean” and get it. I also eventually added a vegan DHA/EPA omega-3 and kept an eye on iron and zinc.
Lesson: Food is powerful. So are smart supplements.
Eating Out Can Be Tricky—Plan Ahead
Some restaurants are great. Some will hand you a sad garden salad and charge you $15. I learned to check menus in advance, call ahead, or eat a small snack beforehand so I wasn’t hungry and disappointed.
Lesson: Flexibility and preparation beat frustration.
Watch Out for the “Vegan Messiah Complex”
There’s a strange ego trap that sneaks in: the feeling that you’ve discovered a “better” way and everyone should know. I fell into it briefly—and it backfired. The truth is, everyone’s path is different. Compassion goes both ways.
Lesson: Be kind. To animals and humans.
Your Cravings Don’t Make You Weak
I still craved cheese, eggs, burgers. It didn’t mean I was doing something wrong—it meant I had habits and emotional associations that needed time to shift. Guilt is the enemy of growth.
Lesson: Cravings pass. Curiosity lasts longer.
Your Cooking Will Get Better—Eventually
At first, I made dry lentil patties and flavorless stews. I questioned my life. Then I found spices. Sauces. Texture. And finally, my rhythm. Vegan cooking is different—but once you get it, it’s like learning jazz. Improvised, soulful, and satisfying.
Lesson: Keep experimenting. The magic is real.
It’s Not All or Nothing
You’ll mess up. Everyone does. I accidentally ate something with egg in it once and almost cried in a parking lot. Then I realized—this isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention. You don’t fail. You learn.
Lesson: Progress beats purity. Always.
Veganism Is a Journey, not a Finish Line
I didn’t become a different person overnight. I just started paying attention—one meal at a time. What I gained wasn’t just health or ethics. I gained awareness. Creativity. And a deeper connection to what nourishes me.
If you’re starting out, don’t worry about being perfect. Just start. Learn. Adjust. And don’t forget to enjoy the food along the way.
