It’s natural to want to learn more about different diets, but there are some ways you shouldn’t go about it. Interrogation is one of them.
Vegetarians and vegans are typically happy to answer genuine questions. After all, we get it – giving up meat could be a big transition.
But carnivores who quiz their vegetarian friends cynically, hoping to prove going meat-free is wrong, should think again. Because it can be annoying.
Read: Health benefits of going vegetarian
There seems to be a set list of questions all non-vegetarians have compiled just to frustrate their vegie-loving friends.
Below is a list of ways to satisfy your curiosity about the vegetarian lifestyle, so you can avoid being accidentally annoying or insulting.
1. But where do you get your protein?
Plants can be an awesome source of protein and experts agree that it’s not necessary to eat meat to get your fill. A well-planned vegan diet can provide you with all the nutrients you need, especially if you’re including lots of tofu, lentils, tempeh, chickpeas and beans in the mix.
Chances are, your pal has done their research, eats well and is not putting their health at risk.
Read: How to get protein without meat
2. But aren’t humans designed to eat meat?
Some people say it’s natural for humans to eat meat as we’ve been doing it for centuries. But whether it’s right or wrong is irrelevant – let’s just respect each other’s lifestyle choices.
3. You’ve changed
Nobody likes to hear this phrase as it implies that the change is for the worse. Just because a newish vegie doesn’t want to order a beef burger anymore, it doesn’t mean that they’re any less of a friend.
Even if it’s said in jest, this kind of comment makes plant-based eaters feel as if their lifestyle isn’t being taken seriously, and some people are very passionate about the reasons why they don’t want to eat meat.
4. Don’t you miss bacon?
It can be hard to give up meat in the first few weeks and months, and if someone is going cold turkey for ethical reasons, there have probably been points in time that they’ve wanted to throw in the towel.
Even if they miss bacon sandwiches, there are many reasons why they might want to tuck into a seitan burger instead.
Pointing out how great their favourite meaty foods are is a rather unsupportive thing to do.
Really, you should give them a pat on the back for exercising great control and discipline.
Read: Liven up vegetarian dinners with these meat replacements
5. You know that’s bad for your health, right?
Unless you’re a licensed medical expert, don’t try to wade in with your own opinions on how valid a meatless diet is.
There are lots of differing opinions in the medical world about which diet is best for our health, so rather than adding to the noise, we should probably simply accept that we aren’t in a position to comment.
Are you vegetarian? Have you heard these questions before? Why not share your thoughts in the comments section below?
– With PA
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