There are lots of misconceptions that surround the vegetarian life; some good and some bad. Over the years, just like feminists, vegetarians and vegans have grown into pressure groups and now it's no longer about healthy eating; just a dietary competition.
Many people end up as part of the vegetarian crew, not because they want to, but because they've heard some interesting points on veganism and they certainly want to check them out. Similarly, some vegetarians quit their diets to embrace the meat life, and these same misconceptions are often to blame. That said, here are some of the most common mistaken beliefs surrounding vegetarianism.
Vegan food is boring
While it's true that a vegetarian diet leaves you just a few options for fast food, there are so many recipes out there to make a wide variety of vegan food. The problem is, you are too lazy to do your research and explore them. On the other hand, non-vegan food by large involves meat, and if you think about it, non-vegans are actually the ones with limited options. But again if your definition of 'boring' is synonymous to double standards, then be my guest.
A vegetarian diet will make you skinny
Okay, there's some truth about this belief, but it's not 100% accurate. Your body is an organic bulk and you can't just expect to lose 10 pounds simply because you avoid meat. Keeping fit is not only subject to diet but also lifestyle. If you really want to lose weight, going vegan should just be a part of the package. You need to consider other smart living tips like exercising.
Vegetarianism requires total abstinence from any kind of meat or fatty foods
This is a big one. Most people get into vegetarianism with the false idea that they have to be totally committed to the rather 'unfriendly' diet. But hey, this is not prison. It's your lifestyle and you're free to adopt your own custom feeding habit. You don't have to be so hard on yourself. Vegetarianism is an option to healthy living, not a dictatorship to your body. The real question is why you are doing it. If you can answer that, then you can choose what works perfectly for you.
Vegetarian food is protein deficient
If you believe that the only source of protein in the world is meat, you need to think again. I mean sure, vegetarians have to put a little extra effort in their diet to get their protein levels up, but that doesn't mean that they'll die of kwashiorkor. Foods like beans, nuts and spinach and rich in protein and hence great supplements to your veggie diet.
Vegetarians are strict beings who intend to ban people from eating meat altogether
Contrary to what most people believe, vegetarians mind their own business. They have their own reasons to adopt the full-time regime and they are determined to stick by it. Of course there are a few hotheads here and there, but for the most part, they hardly care about what their meat-eating counterparts choose to take on.
You will never be full on vegan food
Again, your laziness is to blame in this case. Foods like groundnut stew and Garlic soup, just to name a few recipes, are the perfect solution to your notorious stomach. It's all a matter of how much gritty you are to be vegan.
Different people go for or against the vegetarian lifestyle for different reasons. But sometimes these reasons are based on false truths in the society. It's always important to do some thorough research before trying anything new, especially when it comes to things that have a direct impact on your body. My final word is simple. Being vegetarian is a choice and you can approach it however you want. Just don't let these misconceptions hold you back.