Congratulations on your decision! Any changes you make toward a vegetarian diet can bring health benefits for you. It's a personal choice whether or not to make the switch slowly or quickly, and only you know what will work best for you. If you view this change with some difficulty, it might be easier to take gradual steps and work up to full-time vegetarianism. Some would-be vegetarians cut out red meat first, then fowl, then fish and other seafoods, making each step when it feels right. Others believe it's easier to simply cut back on meat consumption in general, starting with, for example, three meat-free days a week and increasing the number of days as time goes on. Still others, especially those with ethical convictions or pressing health problems, feel it's better to go "cold turkey" and cut out meat altogether.

The good news is that whatever path you decide to follow, there are a variety of meat substitutes out there to help you through your transition. Many of these may even become a regular part of your diet. If you try one you don't like, don't be disheartened; just try another. The number of choices is amazing! And don't stress yourself out reading too many labels at first, but it doesn't hurt to be aware which vegetarian "meat" items are highest in sodium or contain hydrogenated oils.

Finally, I recommend finding a good vegetarian cookbook and a reliable nutrition manual. Becoming Vegetarian by Vesanto Melina is an excellent resource that will provide you with all the information you need for your new lifestyle choice. Good luck!

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