Saturday, May 1, 2010

Flexitarian?

I've heard this term tossed around a lot and I always thought it was kind of silly. Either you're a vegetarian or you aren't. The more I think about it though, I acknowledge that there's a whole lot of difference between a non-vegetarian who occasionally eats fish or a salad with some goat cheese and a non-vegetarian who eats meat three times a day and washes it down with a big glass of chocolate milk. The difference is huge, so why shouldn't it have a name and be considered a separate eating style?
I've been toying with vegan cooking and eating for a few months now, and I love love love it. I still eat whatever Mom cooks when I visit though, and I might order restaurant meals with a little meat, egg or dairy. My diet is largely plant-based, but I do still include some animal products, so I guess I fall into the camp of "Flexitarianism," and I think I'll stay this way for awhile. I think I've found a nice balance for me that feels good to my body and doesn't trigger my obsessive tendencies, as veganism tends to do.
What do you think about flexitarianism?
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3 comments:

  1. kelliMay 2, 2010 at 5:43 PM

    i'm flexible with what i eat, especially in social settings. i don't like labels, so i would just say flexibility helps me stay on the raw/vegan path.=)

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  2. MichalMay 5, 2010 at 11:50 AM

    Well I actually was a flexitarian for two years before I went vegetarian. I feel that lables are too constricting, but in the case of this it is a perfect definition for someone who is following a different path. If that makes sense.

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  3. Chef Amber SheaMay 8, 2010 at 9:02 AM

    Nothing wrong with flexitarianism! Freedom of choice is a powerful thing, and not banning yourself from anything is good for your head, I think. I too was flex for a couple years before I decided that meat and cheese and such had just become downright unnecessary. And you're right, there is a world of difference between a classic meat-eater and a flex.

    Last night I was out with my boyfriend and three of his friends, and they were thinking up places to eat - pizza, Mexican, a diner - but kept looking at me and saying "Oh, but there's nothing you can get there." I beg to differ! No-cheese veggie-loaded pizza, cheeseless black bean enchiladas with rice, chips, and salsa, or a grilled veggie wrap with fries or potatoes - easy! It's been awhile since I was asked "So what do you EAT, then?" and it always takes me aback. People tend to eat the same 4-5 meats, plus milk (1 item) and cheese (1 item). And on my plate are potentially HUNDREDS of varieties of vegetables, fruits, seeds, legumes, nuts, grains, etc. And they wonder what I eat?! I don't get it!

    Sorry for the novel... :]

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