Forgetting the “Veg” in Vegetarian

I’ve been a fish eating vegetarian all my life (pescatarian). Only in the last two months have I truly become a reformed vegetarian cutting out all sea food and embracing various vegetables in my diet.

Growing up I only liked two vegetables: spinach and broccoli. Everything else was out of the question. That left lots of space for junk foods. My lack of vegetables and over consumption of junky processed foods left my body nutrient depleted. I literally became a non-vegetable-eating vegetarian. Sounds crazy right?

I was a meatless, vegetableless, dairy loving vegetarian who was always fatigued, slightly over weight, and comforted by marshmallows. That equation didn’t add up to a healthy life style. I decided towards the end of spring this year that I was going to change. Climbing slowly, but surely, towards the 200 pound mark was enough for a wake up call.

I make a point to mention that I’m a broke college student often, and I’m going to say it again.

I’m a broke college student, from a lower middle class family who found that 76 cent bean burritos loved my wallet more than healthy foods did. My freezer was filled with red and green Morning Star, and Boca Burger boxes (more on that later). My pantry was filled with sweet treats that gave sugar rushes in the afternoon and crashes towards night. I had begun to sacrifice my health to save a buck or two.

This summer, besides getting dirty and sweaty at an archeology dig (more on that later), I made a major shift in my eating habits. I emptied out my pantry of sweets and discarded the remains of my Morning Star and Boca boxes. I ate fresh fruits, vegetables and cut back on everything with ingredients I couldn’t pronounce and artificial dyes.

I’ve got a long way to go, but I’m satisfied with my progress. Fresh herbs, spices, vegetables, and fruits have never tingled my senses the way they do now. I’m making strides towards veganism and these baby steps are helping me get there.

End of the year goals:

1) Buy only organic vegetables and fruits to avoid pesticides.

2) Experiment with different grains

3) Have fun with various teas and flavors

4) Stop eating cheese (Hardest one)

5) Invest in vegan and vegetarian cookbooks