How to Go Vegan Without Feeling Overwhelmed

How to Go Vegan Without Feeling Overwhelmed

I’ve been vegan for 18 years — through three pregnancies, including one with triplets — and I can honestly say that going plant-based was one of the most empowering decisions of my life.

But I didn’t always feel this way.


Back in the Day…

When I first went vegan nearly two decades ago, it was a hard slog.

  • Eating out was a nightmare.
  • Supermarkets barely stocked plant-based options.
  • I was eating the same three meals every day just to get by.

There weren’t oat milks in every coffee shop or vegan cheese on supermarket shelves. I had to get creative, make a lot from scratch, and deal with the looks and questions everywhere I went.

But I stuck with it — because I knew it was right for me. And honestly? I’ve never looked back.


Fast Forward to Now…

Today, vegan awareness is massive — and the world has caught up in the best way:

  • Every supermarket has shelves packed with vegan goodies.
  • Eating out is easier than ever (hello, vegan menus!).
  • You can find dairy-free ice cream, vegan pizzas, ready meals, and more.
  • And you don’t have to sacrifice flavor, fun, or satisfaction.

Whether you’re craving dessert, need something fast, or want to nourish your body after a long day — there’s a plant-based option for everything.

If you’re just starting out now, you’re lucky to have so many resources and options. And I’m here to show you how to make the most of them — without feeling overwhelmed.


1. Know Your Why

Get clear on why you want to make this shift:

  • For your health?
  • For the animals?
  • For the planet?
  • Or maybe for more energy and vitality?

Your “why” will keep you anchored, especially when things feel unfamiliar or challenging.


2. Start Small — One Meal at a Time

You don’t have to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Try:

  • One plant-based meal a day
  • Meatless Mondays
  • Swapping dairy milk for oat or almond milk

Gradual changes help you build confidence — and create habits that stick.


3. Keep Your Kitchen Stocked with Staples

Having the right foods on hand makes everything easier. Some of my go-tos:

  • Beans, lentils, and chickpeas
  • Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats
  • Fresh and frozen veggies
  • Plant-based milks and yogurts
  • Nuts, seeds, and nut butters
  • Herbs, spices, tamari, tahini, and nutritional yeast

These staples helped me survive the chaos of newborn triplets — when meals needed to be fast, easy, and energizing.


4. Yes, You Can Have Dessert!

Going vegan doesn’t mean giving up sweet treats.

Supermarkets now have a fantastic range of vegan desserts — from coconut-based ice cream and oat milk chocolate to vegan cookies, cakes, and even cheesecakes.

Some favourites include:

  • Vegan Ben & Jerry’s or Magnum
  • Wicked Kitchen desserts
  • Dark chocolate, oat cookies, and fruit-based snacks

There’s a world of sweet options waiting for you — no deprivation required!


5. Learn a Few Simple Go-To Recipes

When you have 3–5 easy meals you love, vegan eating becomes second nature. Some of my lifesavers:

  • Smoothies with greens, flax, and fruit
  • Stir-fried veggies with rice or noodles
  • Chickpea curry or lentil soup
  • Overnight oats
  • My favourite vegan pesto pasta — creamy, herby, and loaded with greens!

That pesto pasta? It’s my go-to when I want something comforting, quick, and family-friendly. I make mine with fresh basil, garlic, lemon juice, cashews or pine nuts, and nutritional yeast — blended into a creamy sauce and tossed with pasta and sautéed veggies. So simple and so satisfying!

These quick meals got me through many tired nights with hungry little ones!


6. Progress Over Perfection (and Check the Labels!)

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Always check the labels.

Once, I was in such a rush checking a product for dairy ingredients that I completely forgot to check for meat… and accidentally ate bacon! 😱

It was horrifying — especially since I had been vegetarian since I was 9 years old. That moment stuck with me, but instead of letting it derail me, I used it as a reminder that mistakes happen. And that it’s all part of the journey.

So don’t be hard on yourself if you slip up. You’re learning, evolving, and doing your best — and that’s what really counts.


7. Educate Yourself Gently

The more you learn, the more empowered you’ll feel:

  • Watch: The Game ChangersWhat the HealthForks Over Knives
  • Read: How Not to Die by Dr. Michael Greger (My favourite!)
  • Listen: Plant Proof PodcastThe Rich Roll Podcast

But don’t overwhelm yourself. Learn at your own pace.


8. Get Support

You don’t have to do this alone!

  • Join online communities or vegan groups
  • Follow inspiring creators on social media
  • Ask for help — I’ve been there and I love supporting others on this path

Final Thoughts from a Vegan Mum of 5

Veganism helped me:

  • Grow healthy babies (including triplets!)
  • Release baby weight and rebuild strength after pregnancy
  • Power through sleepless nights
  • Feel vibrant, clear, and more connected to my body than ever

You don’t need to feel overwhelmed. Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.

And remember — I’ve got your back. 💚


Ready to get started?
Request my free one-month vegan menu plan or book a 1:1 support session by contacting me at info@medsniff.com.

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