What is the best way to ease into vegetarianism?

I am finding out as I get older, that I am liking to eat meat less. Environmental issues, taste, cost....I am looking for advice on the best way to get 'on the vegetable wagon'. I already feel I eat as little as I can manage without leaving myself hungry. So let me know what is what. Thanks

There are a few ways to go about becoming vegetarian. Some people choose to just stop eating meat and they find that it works the best for them. Other people gradually over time reduce their meat consumption, cutting out certain types of meat one by one.

Both ways have their advantages and disadvantages. By going cold turkey, it may be easier(in my opinion) because there is no temptation(or time limit to get rid off all meat), for example if you ear cutting out one item a week, you don't have the opportunity to say to yourself, "well it's been a week and I should give up beef, but maybe I'll give it another few days."

Gradual reduction may be best for some people, as it gives them the opportunity to educate themselves on proper vegetarian nutrition, recipes, etc.

You should be finding cookbooks, recipes online, etc, and make these dishes. Its not just about taking the meat off the plate and eating the side dishes(which will leave your hungry), but encompassing whole grains, vegetables, fruit, beans, nuts, seeds, etc. into your daily meals.

First I was fish, eggs and dairy. Fish were dropped, then eggs, now I'm just cutting dairy but I've broke a couple times. No matter, I'l be full vegan VERY soon.

You'll find trying to find direct substitutes is an error. Being veggie requires a whole new palate and lifestyle. You're palate for the old foods goes away over time. It will happen, just be patient and stick to it. When you falter, get back on. Soon you won't even want' to eat that garbage anymore. Then after time you'll wonder how you could have ever eatten it.

Potatos are a cheap and easy way to stuff your stomach by the way.

I decided one day that I wasn't going to eat meat again.. And I haven't.

Eat meat everyday three times a day, that's how i became a vegetarian, my mom played a serious role in it :)

I started by removing all the pork from my diet. I stopped eating anything to do with pigs for about 2 weeks. Then I stopped beef for 2 weeks along with the pork, and then I cut out chicken and fish. I eased off of meat slowly, and if you still get temptations after 2 weeks of not eating the specific meat, keep it longer before taking away something else. To get enough protein in the meantime, eat lots of nuts and soy, and also get your veggies and fruits! Its a great choice to make! Good luck!

Order a free vegetarian starter kit at Peta.org, it helped me make the final transition I never thought would come!