However, there are some disadvantages to this lifestyle choice. Sometimes I am left feeling like I am always the odd person out. When my friends go out to dinner and bond over the Mile-High Ice Cream Pie featured at Champs, I felt I was looking through a window and couldn’t partake in the fun.

It’s nice to see that I am not the only vegan in this community, although sometimes it definitely feels like it. Vegans tend to be very misunderstood because the traditional American way of eating is based on meat and dairy. Any diversions from that are just crazy.

I feel that the article will help other struggling vegans who are first starting out. It gives good pointers on places to go and resources to get more information. I know I would have appreciated an article like this when I was first starting my diet changes.

The most important tip that I could give anyone who is contemplating starting a vegan diet is to make sure they do their research. Since this diet doesn’t include any animal products, a major source of iron and protein, it is important that an individual finds an alternative source. For example, soy products such as tofu or beans and legumes offer high protein.

After researching books, magazines and Web sites, I now have a firm handle on this diet and now I finally feel great! One book I would recommend highly is “Simply Vegan: Quick Vegetarian Meals” by Debra Wasserman and Reed Mangels. It offers good information on maintaining a healthy lifestyle while on this diet, sample menus and, more importantly, amazing recipes that are cheap!

Erin Rygiel

communication junior