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	 Photo is creative commons from FashionbyHe's Flickr site
	Strangely, since going vegetarian my underarms do not produce any odour"          – Heather, Veggie Challenge participant

Never mind reducing cancer, heart disease, diabetes, sparing animals from suffering, or helping the environment, here is a really enticing reason to try a veggie diet: you will smell more attractive!

Eating meat affects how you smell

A study at Charles University in the Czech Republic, found that women preferred men who ate a vegetarian diet because they had a "significantly more attractive, more pleasant, and less intense" body odor than the male participants who ate meat.

From the study write up: "Seventeen male odor donors were on a 'meat' or 'non meat' diet for 2 weeks wearing auxiliary pads to collect body odor... Fresh odor samples were assessed for their pleasantness, attractiveness, masculinity, and intensity by 30 women not using hormonal contraceptives. We repeated the same procedure a month later with the same odor donors, each on the opposite diet than before. Results of repeated measures analysis of variance showed that the odor of donors when on the non meat diet was judged as significantly more attractive, more pleasant, and less intense."

An article from NaturalNews.com titled "Body odor can be eliminated through a change in diet" agrees:  "Red meat is the number one cause of body odor. Red meat causes stagnation in the body; it putrefies in the digestive tract and releases all sorts of toxins into the bloodstream through the large intestine. ... a plant-based diet is an internal deodorizer ... the chlorophyll and other phytonutrients will cleanse you from the inside out."

According to Dean Ornish, M.D. "When you eat a lot of meat, it takes a long time for it to make its way through your digestive tract. As it putrefies and decays, your breath smells bad, your sweat smells bad, and your bowels smell bad." (from the Forward of his book Eat More, Weigh Less)

Further steps to a better smelling body

It may not be enough just to go vegetarian. If you eliminate meat and find that your underarms still smell strong, you are likely eating something that is not digesting well such as processed foods, refined foods, sugary foods, dairy or eggs. It is best to eat a super healthy diet with lots of whole grains, leafy greens, vegetables, fresh fruits plus some beans, lentils, nuts or seeds that are ideally soaked or sprouted. 

LiveStrong.com has an good article on foods that cause body odour. In addition to meat you may want to cut back on garlic and onions (especially eaten raw), curry spice, alcohol and caffeine, and if you have a rare condition called trimethylaminuria, you may have trouble digesting eggs, milk, legumes, peanuts, and vegetables from the cabbage family.

Also see Vegetarians make better lovers at www.sheknows.com

Here are ten more stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in Sept/Oct 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

Meat was easy, but replacing dairy presented some challenges
"I haven't been able to find something to replace the cream in my coffee."
– Deanne, age 50-64, Oshawa, ON

I have made the choice not to eat meat
"I have made my family several vegetarian dishes during the last two weeks and they have enjoyed them."
– Natalie, age 30-39, Markham, ON

Starting the process of being a vegetarian
"I bought my daughters vegetarian cookbooks for Christmas presents in the hope that they will change their eating style."
– Lis, age 50-64, Toronto

The Challenge was a great supplement to the CHIP program
"I am eating more, weighing less and have increased energy levels."
– Peter, age 40-49, Yorkton, SK

My vegan conversion
"I loved the nutritional facts. It's great to have an answer to "Where are you getting your Protein/Iron/etc.""
– Astrid, age 30-39, Melville, SK

I want to be a better vegetarian
"I watched a movie called Forks over Knives and that changed everything for me."
– Richard, age 40-49, Vancouver, BC

The motivation I needed
– Lynda, age 65+, Charlottetown, PEI

Healthy cooking methods
– Grace, age 40-49, Vancouver, BC

It was my grandson's idea
– Gini, Colorado Spring

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.  

Question: I want to switch to a vegetarian diet to help eliminate unhealthy eating habits, but my tendency is to grab quick meals from fast food places. I am also concerned about the availability of health foods (as my Food Basics supermarket has a very crappy selection), and the price it would cost per meal. 
– Eric, early 20's, Etobicoke, ON

Eating well on a budget is definitely possible, but you do have to make friends with your kitchen (but you don't have to be a gourmet chef or spend a lot of time prepping or cooking).

Just to give you an example: I can buy a one pound bag of organic lentils for $1.79 (and much cheaper if I buy a larger quantity or conventional lentils). Make that into a hearty lentil soup with roasted red peppers (available in a jar), onions, tomatoes (or tomato paste) oregano, garlic, lemon juice & a bit of salt and it yields 8 - 10 servings. I haven't done the exact math, but it definitely works out to under $1 per serving. You can eat VERY cheaply if you focus on beans, lentils (legumes) and whole grains such as brown rice, barley, millet and others. Add fresh or frozen vegetables to these staples, seasonings of choice and you've got a nutritious, economical meal. More examples: stir fry veggies with tofu over brown rice – cheap & easy! Rice & beans with Mexican seasoning – cheap & easy. And the list goes on.

There's also a new book out titled "Eating vegan on $4 a day" by Ellen Jaffe-Jones ($13, $10 in the US) – you might be able to borrow it from the library. Most of the recipes in it are fairly simple and quick.

Just keep in mind that vegetarian/vegan convenience foods will make your grocery bill sky rocket (i.e. frozen entrees; prepared meals, etc). Cooking from scratch, but using convenient ingredients such as canned beans or frozen veggies/fruit will help keep costs low, and cooking time to a minimum.

Eating out can be expensive. However, if once in a while you have to resort to grabbing something from a fast food place, a couple of options are:

Here are eight stories from teens and 20's who did the Veggie Challenge in Sept/Oct 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	I feel healthier, have more energy, and knowing my lifestyle is completely free of animal dependency makes me feel great."          – Paterson, Toronto
	"If I could suggest a fantastic documentary that really spurred my interest, I highly recommend Forks Over Knives. It's brilliant if you want to know more about the science behind vegetarianism." – Emily, Toronto
	"Strangely, since going vegetarian my underarms do not produce any odour" – Heather, Toronto There is a study that supports this. Photo is creative commons from FashionbyHe's Flickr site, and is not Heather.

I can't even begin to say how great I feel
"By the end of the week I was having nuts, tofu, tempeh, beans, lentils, quinoa, and more vegetables than I've ever had before."
– Emily, early 20's, Toronto

Mostly vegan
"I saved a good chunk of money on groceries by not eating meat. A bag of beans is a lot cheaper than a cut of meat, and it goes A LOT further."
– Nicole, early 20's

I have discovered the ease of making a stir fry
"My digestion has been fantastic, and I have been sleeping very well."
– Heather, late 20's, Toronto

It was so easy!!!
"It makes me happy every day to know that I am no longer contributing to the inhumane treatment of animals."
– Tiffany, teen, Pontypool, ON

My Veggie Challenge day by day
"On the second day we tried one of the recipes from the Veggie Challenge emails and it was delicious which helped keep me positive."
– Brandi, early 20's, Windsor, ON

I am lactose-intolerant and I decided to cut meat as well as dairy
"I learned that veggie food was much healthier (and tastier to boot!)"
– Pamela, early 20's, Ottawa

I helped my boyfriend
– Kira, early 20's

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.   

Here are seven stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in July/August 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	A friend told me to think about all the wonderful things I can eat as opposed to thinking about the restrictions."          – Shaun, Toronto
	Photo is creative commons from Flickr and shows a pumpkin chickpea burger along with a link to a simple vegan recipe. Shawn wrote us: "I was able to maintain a wonderful vegan diet for the past week and two days. I treated myself today with a delicious quinoa and chickpea burger with sauteed mushrooms and a pesto topping on a whole grain bun."

I am now off all the the medication I was taking
"I have IBS and was taking approximately 16 pills a day! But now I have noticed a marked improvement in my symptoms as long as I didn't eat any meat, fish or poultry."
– Lori, age 50-64, Mason, OH

The Challenge was most helpful in inspiring me to read more
"I read, Safran Foer's "Eating Animals", and Singer's "The Way We Eat". I also read more from dietitians. I also viewed "Earthlings" with my partner, and let's just say he is taking a break from eating meat as well."
– Gaela, age 30-39, Toronto

Kicked it up to the next level
"I am now almost entirely vegan. Love, love, love the recipes."
– Kristen, age 40-49, Boise, ID

From way down under in New Zealand
"I found the nutrition information most useful as this has been my main flaw in being veggie."
– Nina, late 20's, Wellington, New Zealand

Thanks for the great challenge!
– Florian, age 30-39, Toronto

I learnt more about being a vegetarian
– Aysia, teen, Kitchener, ON

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.  

Here are 12 stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in May/June 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	By the end of the week, I discovered a new love for grilling vegetables, whole wheat pasta stir-fry, fried and seasoned tofu with rice, and more."          – Jessica, Scarborough, ON
	Photo is creative commons. From prideandvegudice Flickr site.
	Photo is creative commons. From cstrom Flickr site. If making your own pizza, you can buy pizza dough ready-made in stores, or even fresh pita bread will work. But for the best pizza, here is a vegan pizza crust recipe from VeganBaking.net. It is describes as: "easy to make and features a rich flavor with a crispy exterior and chewy interior."

I grew up scarfing down McDonalds and Dairy Queen
"When I began exercising and making smart food choices (giving up meat and dairy) I lost 50+ pounds and have kept it off."
– Rachel, teen, Abbotsford, BC

Teen’s vegetarian ‘phase’ rekindled
"Inspired by the Veggie Challenge, I became a more skilled cook, lost a few spare pounds and really think that I will be a vegetarian for life."
– Una, teen, Co. Cork

Returning to a vegetarian diet
"One thing that continues to inspire me is listening to the TVA podcasts."
– Raquel, age 30-39, Regina, SK

Inspired by the book "Eating Animals"
"I feel definite that I'm going to continue on this path and feel really good about the choices that I'm making on a daily basis."
– Brenna, late 20's, Toronto

My teenage son challenged me
"He taught me to be a vegetarian, and your site reinforced the lessons learned."
– Patty, age 50-64, Flagstaff, AZ

I made the best pizza ever!!
"With all the delicious grilled veggies I put on top I didn't even miss not having cheese."
– Margaret, late 20's, Chaput Hughes, ON

Tasty and fairly easy
"I lost five pounds in the two weeks easily and hope to continue."
– Dina, age 40-49, Mississauga, ON

I learned that a vegan diet takes little effort
– Ann, age 30-39, Calgary, AB

An ongoing struggle not to slip
– Alexis, early 20's, Toronto

So proud of myself that I made it
"Being vegetarian is really healthy."
– Henda, late 20's, Toronto

Click "Read more..." for the full stories. 

Here are 10 more stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in Mar/Apr 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	My health issues are slowly improving with this lifestyle change ... with no sign of diabetes."          – Kelly, Tomah, WI
	"My motivation is to live a healthier life style, protect the environment and stop the slaughter and maltreatment of farm animals" – Hilton, Port-Of-Spain, Trinidad

Influenced by my daughter watching Food Inc.
"One week turned into a lifestyle change and we are all vegetarians now."
– Sharen, age 40-49, Toronto

Going vegan in the Caribbean
– Hilton, age 50-64, Port-Of-Spain, Trinidad, West Indies

Engine 2 Diet inspired me to go vegan
"I really had no idea what impact a vegan diet had on the planet and our health."
– Linda, age 40-49, Oakville, ON

Beginner vegetarian loves book recommendations
"I am pleasantly surprised how easy it all has been."
– Kendra, age 30-39, Maple, ON

No more "digestion tiredness" after meals
"I'm caring more about my body and that makes me happy :)"
– Kasia, age 30-39, Toronto

Seventh-day Adventist finds help and support through Veggie Challenge
"My youngest son is vegan and he is excited with my interest."
– Pamela, age 50-64, St. George's, Bermuda,

Blood sugar and weight stabilizing for Type 2 Diabetic
"There's nothing like success to keep you going."
– Wizzy, age 65+, Burlington, ON

"I felt really good all week, quite clear-headed, stronger and more energetic."
– Sarah, age 40-49, Vancouver, BC

Went vegan for the week
"I think I'll continue for another three weeks."
– Blonde, age 40-49, Strathroy, ON

I didn't tell my family that I was vegetarian
"I just ate the vegetables at meals."
– Jenny, age 30-39, Burlington, ON

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.

Congratulations to Isabella for winning the top story of 2010 from among all the Veggie Challenge stories we received during the year – 122 in total. Isabella wins a SoyQuick 930P Milk Maker. There were many other excellent stories from a wide variety of perspectives. We have included several Honourable Mentions below.

Energy boost for this mother of two

I am a 36 year old mother of two. I have decided to remove meat from my diet after reading The Kind Diet.

I have never really enjoyed meat to the point that giving it up would be hard. I was actually sort of astounded that it took me so long to get here. My diet included meat just because it was always considered a necessity of a healthy diet in my family. My biggest concern was to get enough protein. That is where the educational emails really helped.

I find vegetarian food delicious, and not as hard as I thought to prepare. My food staples are whole grain cereals, Ezekiel bread, brown rice, quinoa, nuts and beans. I find the food very satisfying, I no longer crave bad carbs! And that is the best part for me as I would always go through my cupboards looking for cookies after a high protein, low carb dinner. I found myself totally satisfied and with no cravings and this was my PMS week!

Also my daughter (8 years old) is enjoying all the new foods, so much that she actually devours her dinners, as before it would take her forever to finish dinner. My energy levels are high, and I feel... cleaner on the inside. :>

Newly converted.

– Isabella, age 30-39, Brampton, ON

Note: Check out Alicia Silverstone's The Kind Diet at Amazon. She also has an excellent blog called the Kind Life.

Honourable mentions

This is the beginning of my journey
"I have really learned to enjoy cooking. It feels great to be able to take full responsibility for what I put into my body (now mostly whole foods) and to have a much better understanding of the ethical and environmental aspects of food choices."
– Nancy, age 30-39, Toronto ( Nancy won a prize for top story in Sept.)

I was finally sick and tired of being sick and tired
"Ever since I was a child I struggled with food. In general I was sick all the time. I went completely veggie and haven't felt so good in my whole life. I dropped 15 pounds right away."
– Rachel, age 30-39, Fernie, BC

The push I needed to go veg
"I took my son to the petting zoo, there was a yak and my son put his face right to his and kissed his nose. That moment I really understood what I was eating, for the first time ever..."
– Karen, age 30-39, Orillia, ON

At first my Muslim parents tried to force me to eat meat
"They thought that I liked some vegetarian guy and he had influenced me to change my religion or something."
– Antara, teen, Toronto

My love for animals and the Earth surpassed my love for the taste of meat
"I accept the continued challenge of a meat-free diet in exchange for a clear and sound conscious, great health and good food."
– Kiya, late 20's, Toronto

Going vegetarian in rural Newfoundland
"It has truly changed my life. I have never before had such variety in my diet."
– Priscilla, age 30-39, Baie Verte, NL

This is the first time I have gone vegan
"After reading "Eating Animals" by Jonathan Safran Foer ..., I will never again put meat or dairy in my mouth."
– Kate, age 30-39, Guelph, ON

Here are 10 more stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in Jan/Feb 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	We both feel healthier, our energy levels have gone up, we have lost a little weight.          – Jennygirl, Nova Scotia
	"The chick pea salad sandwich is one of my favorites!" – Christine, Steubenville, OH See our our lunch page.

Mother of two little ones moves towards a vegan diet
"I have had a blast cooking and planning meals and I think my family has enjoyed my new enthusiasm in the kitchen."
– Christine, age 40-49, Steubenville, OH

I was brought into the "veggie world" by a vegetarian friend
"Meatless dishes turned out to be a lot more satisfying and delicious than I ever thought they could be."
– Lexie, age 40-49, Oakville, ON

Gastric bypass surgery and allergic to milk. Hello veganism!
"I finally had an epiphany. Why am I trying to force myself to eat meat when I don't like it anyway?"
– Ellie, age 50-64, Oshawa, ON

My goal is to reduce my reliance on meat at most meals
"The Veggie Challenge gave me the focus I needed to stay away from meat for a week."
– Lynn K-S, age 50-64, Sarnia, ON

I listen to my body
"In 3 weeks I noticed a great difference in my mobility, I no longer had unpleasant odours coming from my body, no more itching, had more energy and just a general better feeling within."
– Lucie, age 50-64, Vanc., BC

It is the cooking that stymies me
"I am so glad of your recipes and friendly information."
– Susan, age 50-64, Munich, Germany

Not as difficult as I thought
– Raquel, age 30-39, Regina, SK

Following a vegan gluten free diet
– Cristina, age 30-39, Toronto

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.  

Here are 8 stories from those in their twenties who did the Veggie Challenge in Jan/Feb 2011. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	Food and I had a terrible relationship before, but now I feel like it is a source of nourishment as well as delight.          – Erin, Winnipeg, MN
	"I love the recipes included. And also the focus on nutrition and the lists of where to get your iron, protein, etc." – Nadia, early 20's, Edmonton, AB Photo is from her blog.

Excited to continue this vegetarian adventure
"I felt like I wanted to share everything I had learned with EVERYONE. BUT I learned quickly, I can‘t be a preacher, people will learn on their own."
– Nadia, early 20's, Edmonton, AB

Our vegan journey
"What really surprised us was our grocery bill. It was LESS than before despite buying "specialized" vegan ingredients."
– Tara, late 20's, Toronto

The Challenge proved to be an affordable and easy venture
"It is comforting to know that I am doing my part in reducing the widespread ecosystem damage associated with meat production."
– Melanie, early 20's, Kingston, ON

It is a lot easier than it looks
"Why would we harm our health and the lives of animals, especially when we can eat an animal-free version of what we love without doing so?"
– Heather, early 20's, Sackville, NB

I finally buckled down and challenged myself to live animal-free
"I now have more energy, more clarity of mind, and the pounds have been melting off."
– Lindsey, early 20's, Pittsburgh, PA

Creating a healthy relationship with food
"My body feels wonderful, I'm thinking more clearly, and I'm sleeping really well too. I feel better than I ever have."
– Krystin, late 20's, Toronto

Fabulous!
– Luci, late 20's, Paia, HI

Click "Read more..." for the full stories. 

“The challenge is on! No meat, no milk, no animal anything.” – Oprah

In celebration of Earth Week, April 17-23, 2011, why not inspire friends, family and yourself by taking our delicious Vegan Challenge at work and at home?


Oprah did it – along with 378 of her staff! They took a Vegan Challenge this past February.  And following her lead, one Canadian media organization, rabble.ca is doing the same for Earth Week. You can participate too. Go vegan for a week, and ask your workplace, friends and family to join you.

Take the Vegan Challenge yourself

We have everything you need: recipes, menus, a shopping list, nutritional tips, and information about how participation helps the Earth, the animals, and your health. Sign up for the Veggie Challenge. We will send you daily emails with simple and tasty vegan recipes and other helpful information and tips. You can also support rabble.ca’s Vegan Challenge Facebook page by clicking "attend", and share updates about your experience in the comments section.

Get your workplace to join you

Approach close co-workers or even the whole workplace and ask them to join you in taking the Vegan Challenge during Earth Week. It’ll make it more fun and also gives you an opportunity to share your recipes and nutritious and delicious experiments! See rabble.ca’s Vegan Challenge Facebook page for tips on how to get started.


Vegan Week is brought to you in collaboration with Toronto PigSave, a group raising awareness of about the cruelty involved in factory farming, transport and slaughterhouses. 


We make going vegan easy.  Eating a plant-based diet is one of the strongest ways you can make every day Earth Day! Meat production requires huge amounts of land, energy and water – which leads to habitat loss, soil erosion, water depletion, and pollution from pesticides and animal waste.

Celebrate a greener planet, a more compassionate and peaceful lifestyle, and healthy and delicious food.


Here are the top 11 Veggie Challenge stories we received in 2010 from those age 30 and up. Also see the top stories from teens and 20's. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	I found myself totally satisfied and with no cravings and this was my PMS week! My energy levels are high, and I feel... cleaner on the inside.          – Isabella, Brampton, ON
	"I have really learned to enjoy cooking. It feels great to be able to take full responsibility for what I put into my body (now mostly whole foods) and to have a much better understanding of the ethical and environmental aspects of food choices." – Nancy, Toronto

This is the beginning of my journey
– Nancy, age 30-39, Toronto

I'll never look at meat the same way again
"I like eating meat, but I‘m not sure it‘s worth the suffering these poor creatures go through."
– Doug, age 30-39, Windsor, ON

Going vegetarian in rural Newfoundland
"It has truly changed my life."
– Priscilla, age 30-39, Baie Verte, NL

Inspired by a vegan friend
"I believe it's wrong that animals have to be tortured and killed when people can be healthy without consuming meat."
– Ronee, age 30-39, Toronto

A plant-based diet was the obvious answer for me
"With heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes in my family I knew changes were absolutely necessary."
– Sheila, age 40-49, Montreal

Energy boost for this mother of two
– Isabella, age 30-39, Brampton, ON

Becoming vegan: a challenge and an adventure
"My appetite for meat disappeared overnight."
– Linda, age 40-49, Lanark, ON

I was finally sick and tired of being sick and tired
"I've lost fifteen pounds and people tell me I look healthy."
– Rachel, age 30-39, Fernie, BC

I felt a huge weight falling off my heart and soul
"I experienced a dramatic decrease of PMS and menstrual cramps."
– Miriam, age 40-49, Austria

The push I needed to go veg
"That moment I really understood what I was eating, for the first time ever..."
– Karen, age 30-39, Orillia, ON

This is the first time I have gone vegan
"After reading "Eating Animals" by Jonathan Safran Foer ..., I will never again put meat or dairy in my mouth."
– Kate, age 30-39, Guelph, ON

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.   

Here are the top 10 Veggie Challenge stories we received in 2010 from those in their teens or twenties. Also see the top stories from age 30 and up. To read the full stories, click on the title above or the "Read more" link below.

	Every time I began to eat meat, it felt like I was eating another human being."          – Kelley, Toronto
	"I regularly research new and easy recipes on the internet" – Carolyn, Oshawa, ON

At first my Muslim parents tried to force me to eat meat
"They thought that I liked some vegetarian guy and he had influenced me to change my religion or something."
– Antara, teen, Toronto

My love for animals and the Earth surpassed my love for the taste of meat
"I accept the continued challenge of a meat-free diet in exchange for a clear and sound conscious, great health and good food."
– Kiya, late 20's, Toronto

Best of all I don't feel guilty
"I am overweight and dread exercising, so learning that I can lose weight by just eating is awesome!"
– Eliya, early 20's, Toronto

Going vegetarian isn't easy, but it's worth the effort!
"I will never go back to eating meat or dairy. It's amazing, and I feel awesome about myself."
– Melanie, early 20's, Oshawa, ON

Vegtastic! I love being vegetarian
"I can help the animals and stay healthy at the same time."
– Danielle, early 20's, Pickering, ON

I decided to join a vegan club at the University of Toronto
– Kelley, early 20's, Toronto

Vegetarianism is right for my whole family!
"I spoke to my five year old daughter about how she felt about eating meat, and she said it made her sad."
– Krystle, early 20's, Toronto

An eye-opening experience
"Being Vegetarian is one of the best choices I've made. I simply feel GREAT!"
– Christy-Marie, teen, Toronto

Gallstone attack prompted gradual switch to vegetarian diet
"For me, starting slow was definitely the way to go."
– Carolyn, late 20's, Oshawa, ON

The Challenge solved my worries about getting enough protein and iron
"Avoiding meat makes me feel a lot lighter, more energetic and makes me feel so much better about not harming any precious animals."
– Sobi, late 20's, Toronto

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.   

Here are the stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in Nov/Dec 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

	We went completely meat, eggs and dairy-free for one week and LOVED it!          – Natalie, Hamilton, ON
	"I have been feeling more energized and happier with myself, knowing that I am helping the environment and my family." – BettyB, Port Coquitlam, BC

Becoming vegan: a challenge and an adventure
"My appetite for meat disappeared overnight."
– Linda, age 40-49, Lanark, ON

Happily vegetarian despite the difficulties
"The Challenge has done a lot to help me feel more confident and committed to choosing a vegetarian lifestyle."
– Stacie, age 30-39, Coal City, WV

I love animals and I was eating them
"I can still enjoy all the things I used to enjoy. I just substitute something else for the meat ingredient."
– Sophie, early 20's, North York, ON

My decision, my choice
"I will continue with my vegetarian life choice."
– Vanessa, teen, Embrun, ON

I did it for my health and I have never felt better
"I was also put on cholesterol medication and decided by becoming a complete vegetarian I could get off the pills."
– Heather, age 50-64, Port Perry, ON

Concerned about the treatment of farm animals
"It's been a very easy transition."
– Westie, age 50-64, Vancouver, BC

My daughter is a vegetarian
"The Challenge was a good learning experience. I now feel more confident that vegetarians eat healthy."
– Brenda, age 50-64, Sydney, NS

Diabetic vegan diet makes a diference!
"I was diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) at 18. ...it caused me to have weight issues, depression and low self esteem."
– Simone, age 30-39, Pickering, ON

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.    

Here are more stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in Sept/Oct 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

	Half the fun has been experimenting and tasting all sorts of wonderful new veggies in various combinations.          – Chris, Mississauga, ON

This is the beginning of my journey
"This year's Thanksgiving will be vegan because of conscious choices I am making in my life to do no harm to animals. It feels good."
– Nancy, age 30-39, Toronto

I was finally sick and tired of being sick and tired
"I've lost fifteen pounds and people tell me I look healthy."
– Rachel, age 30-39, Fernie, BC

I feel energized all the time
"If I can do this, you can do it."
– Marvin, age 30-39, Oakville, ON

Embracing a lifestyle of less consumerism and greater health
"I feel strongly that being a vegetarian is the right choice for me."
– Angela, age 30-39, Akron, OH

Going vegetarian has been a huge benefit
"My motivation was my love of animals and disgust at putting part of an animal in my mouth."
– Sherry, age 50-64, Shilo, MN

I will certainly be continuing this health journey into the next month
"I find it difficult to eat vegan when I am not fully in charge of preparing the meals."
– Tracey, age 30-39, Saint Nicolas, QC

Vegetarian in a meat-eating family
– Andrea, age 30-39, Toronto

My teenage daughter and I decided to try it together
"The men in the family weren't too thrilled when we told them."
– Leslie, age 40-49, Ottawa

I was able to fit into some of my old clothing
"I felt healthy, slept well and generally felt good overall."
– Pat, age 50-64

Learning how not to be a junk food vegan
"I was able to drop my cholesterol by 20 points."
– Caroljean, age 50-64, Marshall, WA

Back to a raw vegan diet
– Kimberly, age 30-39, Burlington, ON

Here are stories from teens and those in their 20's who did the Veggie Challenge in Sept/Oct 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

	I have felt amazing turning vegetarian.          – Alanna, Burlington, ON

Vegtastic! I love being vegetarian
"I like being a vegetarian because I can help the animals and stay healthy at the same time."
– Danielle, early 20's, Pickering, ON

Vegetarianism is right for my whole family!
"I spoke to my five year old daughter about how she felt about eating meat, and she said it made her sad."
– Krystle, early 20's, Toronto

Breast of Tofu was a hit
"I was feeling happier and better than I have in a while."
– Stacie, early 20's, Dartmouth, NS

Gallstone attack prompted gradual switch to vegetarian diet
"For me, starting slow was definitely the way to go."
– Carolyn, late 20's, Oshawa, ON

Saving the world one week at a time
"I hated the fact that eating meat meant eating muscle and fat."
– Rebekah, teen, Kitchener

The Veggie Challenge helped me understand
"Because I care about myself and my health being vegan is the next step."
– Gladis, late 20's, Toronto

My farming community didn't understand
"Great recipes! I didn't tell my family there was no meat, no one noticed!"
– Jane, Saskatoon, SK

We were totally inspired
"The Veggie Challenge was the push we needed."
– Carole, late 20's, Toronto

I now gladly choose vegetarian meals over meat!
"Turning vegetarian made me open my eyes to the truths about the meat industry."
– Catherine, teen

A new found respect for vegetarians
– Kyle, teen, Windsor, ON

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Here are more stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in July/Aug 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

The Challenge solved my worries about getting enough protein and iron
"Avoiding meat makes me feel a lot lighter, more energetic and makes me feel so much better about not harming any precious animals."
– Sobi, late 20's, Toronto

Inspired by a vegan friend
"I believe it's wrong that animals have to be tortured and killed when people can be healthy without consuming meat."
– Ronee, age 30-39, Toronto

The best health I can ever remember
"I also lost weight and not like all those crazy diets that never worked."
– Diane, Hamilton, ON

Inside and out I feel just great!
– Lauren, late 20's, Markham, ON

I just turned 65 and haven't eaten meat for over 25 years
"I get asked constantly for 'proof' that I am a senior with the TTC, movie theatres, etc. I love it!"
– Lynn, age 65+, Toronto

What a difference after just one week
"I have more energy, my appetite has decreased and I feel great."
– Tanya, age 30-39, Kearney, ON

I wanted to switch to a healthier diet
"Since taking the Veggie Challenge, I have not had any fast food except for pizza once and it was vegetarian pizza."
– David, age 30-39, Orillia, ON

Your Challenge was a great motivator
– Beverley, age 65+, Brossard, QC

I really enjoyed the recipes
– Heather, late 20's, Burnaby, BC

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Here are 9 stories from teens and those in their early 20's who did the Veggie Challenge in July/Aug 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

I wanted to be vegetarian, but my mom wouldn't let me
– Ja, teen, Toronto

At first my Muslim parents tried to force me to eat meat
"They thought that I liked some vegetarian guy and he had influenced me to change my religion or something."
– Antara, teen, Toronto

Reinforcing my vegetarian diet
"I felt myself craving some meat products. I did not want to slip up, so I tried the Veggie Challenge."
– Rebecca, early 20's, Toronto

Environmental Studies student overcomes doubts
"I doubted my ability to stick with a vegetarian diet, despite my desires to do so."
– Liz, early 20's, Ancaster, ON

My transition to veganism
"After a few days without dairy, I started to feel so much more energetic."
– Bridget, early 20's, Guelph, ON

A lot tastier than carnivorous meals!
"Although my family at first didn't quite understand, they began to realize that it was a lifestyle change for the better."
– Cara, teen, Demorestville, ON

I no longer felt gummed up
"This Challenge provided the bump out the door to start down a vegetarian lifestyle."
– Nicholas, early 20's, Ajax, ON

I want to continue
– Roxanna, teen, North York, ON

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.  

Here are 14 stories from those who did the Veggie Challenge in May/June 2010. To read the full stories, click on the title above, or the "Read more" link below.

Overcoming concerns about anemia
"I have been especially grateful for the tips on how to ensure that all the nutritional needs are met."
– Margo, age 30-39, Barrie, ON

I decided to join a vegan club at the University of Toronto
"Every time I began to eat meat, it felt like I was eating another human being."
– Kelley, early 20's, Toronto

Converting my mother and sister
"I never expected my mom to give up meat but with one read of Skinny Bitch, she was a new woman."
– Kelly, late 20's, Montreal

Beneficial, interesting, and not to mention FUN!
"Having fun with a personal challenge was one of the keys to success!"
– Carrie, late 20's, Alamo, CA

Empowerment
"Knowing that my diet is compassionate towards all creatures is the icing on the proverbial vegan cake!"
– Julia, early 20's, Toronto

Changing our seemingly meat-focused diet
"We dusted off our juicer, filled our fridge with veggies and fruit and began the journey."
– James, age 40-49, Woodbridge, ON

The Challenge helped me "make it official"
"My family and friends have been amazingly supportive."
– Millie, late 20's, Belleville, ON

My kids got the most out of the whole experience
"Our 6 year old who kept asking "are we still on the Challenge?"
– Lisa, age 40-49, Richmond Hill, ON

I was a definite omnivore but wanted to change
"I am glad I came across this Challenge as it gave me the motivation and reasoning to go vegetarian."
– Jess W, late 20's, Fernie, BC

Let us reduce meat before it destroys us
"I am happy that I have become caring and eco-friendly and not a graveyard for animals."
– Varun, age 40-49, Brampton, ON

The Challenge gave me the motivation to start
– Verity, teen, London, ON

Fantastic!
– Yu, teen, Toronto

Click "Read more..." for the full stories.