Any good tips for a new vegetarian?!

Any good tips for a new vegetarian?

im about to become a vegetarian so i would like to know any good tips you may have
example:
resist meat
source for protein
food ideas
ect


thanks

I gave this answer to a new vegan. Hopefully it will help you too.

I have been a vegan for about 15 months, and I can honestly say that I have not given into any cravings. It's more than likely that I have unknowingly eaten some nonvegan, and perhaps nonvegetarian foods, but I've made every attempt to avoid those.

I highly suggest you watch Earthlings if you haven't already. It is a documentary narrated by Joaquin Phoenix that explains how much humans rely on animals for food, entertainment, science, and clothing. It totally changed my life, because it pretty much convinced me to convert to Veganism. I wasn't vegetarian before - I was a full on omnivore. Once you understand how much of an impact your diet has on the world, it's hard not to change.

There are tons of alternatives to meat and dairy. If you have a Whole Foods or Outpost near you, that will be much easier for you. I depend heavily on the meat alternatives.

Boca obviously makes Boca burgers, but if you're used to eating real hamburgers, make sure you have lettuce, tomato, and other condiments. That way they test better, and of course get the extra veggies. Boca also makes chicken nuggets which are really good.

Morningstar makes what I think are called Meal Starters. They have "ground beef," "steak strips," and "chicken strips." I use the "ground beef" in tons of recipes.

Gardenburger also makes vegetarian and vegan burgers (make sure to look at the box) , veggie crumbles (ground beef), and my favorite - bbq riblets. Oh they're so yummy!

Tofu is also a great addition to a vegan diet, if you haven't started eating that. It's cheap (about $2 a block), high in protein, and low in fat (as are all veggie protein substitutes). It tastes bland by itself, but will take on the flavor of whatever marinade or sauce you use. I definitely suggest the firm or extra firm varieties.

Dairy substitutes are pretty easy (at least for me) to come by. I've successfully found vegan ice cream (Soy Decadent makes Peanut Butter Zig Zag which is to die for), cream cheese, sour cream (Tofutti brand), and mayo (Nayonaise and Veganaise). They do make vegan cheese too, but I only use it on homemade pizza.

So as you can see, tons of alternatives to meat and dairy!

Finally, becoming a vegan (or vegetarian) is a huge change. I've been given a hard time about it, but I think my family and friends are finally beginning to understand how important this is to me. Just remember that a vegan/vegetarian diet is a diet of compassion.

Good luck to you!!