If you're a kid but want to become a vegetarian this will tell you how to start and how to get over the cravings. This is also if you already are one but need some advice and help.


Steps

1. Make sure you really want to become a vegetarian. You could be a lacto-ovo-vegetarian which can have dairy and eggs but no fish, poultry, and red meats -- or you could be a vegan, meaning that you eat no animal products at all. Be serious about your decision and keep it almost like a promise to yourself. Some people are ethical vegetarians (no meat because of animal rights and such), and some are health vegetarians, whose type eats no meat because of the health benefits.
2. Make sure that your parents support you in your decision. They normally buy the food and make what's for dinner. If they make a chicken salad for dinner, you have to eat something else. You will be cooking more as a vegetarian so make sure that if you cannot use the stove or oven your parents are willing to help.
3. Get some vegetarian cookbooks and start making some vegetarian food. When you go to the supermarket, look in the organic and vegetarian aisle. They have some good food.
4. Research a vegetarian diet. Make sure you're getting all the proteins and vitamins you need. You might have to take vitamins. As a kid especially you want to have a lot of energy.
5. Pack anything from a vegetarian sandwich and some fruits and veggies and nuts to a fake meat lunch for school lunches. Don't be afraid to tell people you're a vegetarian when they comment on your food.
6. Be careful if you are away from home because of school or camp or something else. Make sure what you are eating is vegetarian and if you have to you may have to go out and buy food.

Tips

• Go shopping with your parents a lot. That way you can pick out good vegetarian foods.
• If you and your family or friends are going out to a restaurant maybe you don't want to go to a meat or fish place. Check the menu ahead of time if you want to see what you can get so you don't have to ask the waiter if something is vegetarian.
• Don't be afraid to stand up for what you think as a vegetarian. If some people single you out as a vegetarian, it's OK. Some people don't realize you are just like them but don't eat meat.
• If you are the only vegetarian in your family it can be hard with all the meat around you. If you have dinner with your family each night and the meat is getting to you here's what to do: Ask to sit at one of the heads of the table. Ask for them to also keep the meat products farthest from you. This way you are not tempted.
• Some people might want to copy you and think that it is cool. If kids want to copy you then make sure they also know all the facts.
• When you first become a vegetarian you may have some meat cravings. If you had truly loved meat then try some soy food that tastes like meat. When you get a craving hold it off with some vegetarian food, maybe just some fruit. If you get cravings a lot that may mean that you are not getting the protein you need. Soy meats, beans, and whole grains contain healthy amounts of protein.

Warnings

• Dropping meat instantly can work for some people, but it's perfectly OK to transition gradually.
• Vegetarianism or veganism doesn't guarantee great health; ensure that you get all the nutrients you need by eating a balanced diet!
• Don't feel obliged to rush.