I'm currently not a vegetarian, but I am thinking of transitioning to a vegetarian lifestyle. What are the good points of the vegetarian diet? What are the bad points?

And if anyone has some healthy ideas for me, throw them my way!

there are a lot o f really good resources on the web for a vegetarian lifestyle -- and helping to decide if it's right for you... Dont make the assumption that tis' a fast track to weight loss -because there are plenty of fat vegetarians.

Why do you want to be a vegetarian? What's your thought process behind it?

Are you going all-in with being a veggie head -and that's shunning leather goods as well?

There are levels of vegetarianism... some will eat fish, eggs, dairy - others are all veg all the time.

The downside to it - it can be tough to get in enough protein - there are a lot of veg sources of protein - like beans, tofu, nuts -but it takes osme planning....

Eating out - depending on how veg you decide to go - can be a challenge...

I know it's not a fast track to weight loss. I'd still be counting calories and such.
I've kind of had an issue with the cruelty aspect of meat for a while, but right now, I'd just like to introduce more veggies and plant-based protein to my diet.

I'm going to slowly transition by introducing more veggies to my diet, and see how far I can take it without being uncomfortable.

Thanks!!

Straight vegetables aren't much of a protein source... adding more vegetables is good no matter what you decide to do... but do make sure that you're getting enough protein - if not for your insides... appeal to vanity - your skin and hair will appreciate it

VegWeb.com - Vegan Recipes and Cooking Tips

Vegetarian Times - Great Food, Good Health, Smart Living

The Vegetarian Resource Group (VRG)

SoYouWanna be a vegan? | SoYouWanna.com

Thanks! Whattabout soy products like Boca or Morningstar? And tofu?

I've heard they provide a good amount of protein. The Veggie sausages I just bought have 13g Protein each!

I myself fade in and out of pure vegetarian and pescetarian. Right now I'm on the pescetarian track (I do this when it is cold).

The boca Burgers and soy sausages taste good, but also be careful about eating too much of them, they are still processed foods. But they are tasty.

Tofu may be tough for someone just starting out. It is an acquired taste/texture. You really need to learn how to prepare it so it doesn't taste like a slimy sponge. Another good source of protine (Like mal said) is beans. They always taste good and can be put in many things.

Great sources mal.

My big pro is not eating animals. That's why I became vegetarian in the first place. An added pro to this is a few people eat less meat because of me. I didn't even have to do anything. They tried out what I was eating and realized it tastes good.

Another pro is it's easier protein without a lot of fat. I like Morning Star and Boca. I also like beans and lentils. I've never had a problem getting protein.

Not knowing where you live, you may have trouble eating out. When I first started (12 years ago) I had trouble and often ended up eating salad (which got tiring) or asking for a specially prepared meal. Some places, especially rib/steak houses, weren't very good at that. One place offered me a veggie platter that turned out to be a plate of semi-cooked greasy onions. That was gross. Now though, most restaurants, including rib/steak houses, offer vegetarian choices. Btw, I live in California.

Another con is the smell of meat may affect you. I find the smell of meat gross now. Sometimes it makes me nauseated, especially fish.

Well all this is interesting for me as I'm planning in adopting a vegetarian lifestyle and in the midst of creating a big vegetable garden - and trying to have as many varieties of vegetables as I can (it's more of a bragging rights than anything). we have 6-7 different fruit trees (which is SOOOOO nice to have), and now on the vegetable band wagon.

In everything considered, i'm planning to grow 7-8 different varieties of vegetables in this garden (definitely tomato's/Broccoli and lettuce) but wanting to know from you guys what else would be needed to have a well rounded nutrient content...