If anyone out there is a vegan, I'd love to hear how that has helped/changed your health. I am thinking of going that route for health reasons, and I'm wondering what benefits people have experienced.

Also, any resource suggestions would be helpful, too...websites, books/cookbooks, magazines, recipes, etc.

Thank you!

While not a vegan, I hope you make the transition gradually rather than cold turkey. Also, consider a minimal meat diet if you are going this route for health reasons as opposed to ethical reasons. There are some truly delightful, incredible vegan meals out there, but remember you do NOT have to be vegan to enjoy them. It does not have to be one or the other.

I've been vegetarian for 15 years and recently went vegan. I didn't have any health problems before, so I can't say it's much different now. I do think that it helps my digestion and I don't have any stomach problems ( I used to have upset tummy occasionally). I recently had a check up and my blood pressure is excellent and my cholesterol is low. I'm 40, so those things start being important! Anyway, there are lots of resources on the web for vegans. I really like the forums at postpunkkitchen.com. They are very helpful and welcoming to new vegans and have good quality recipies. Check out their recommendations for cookbooks. Also check the highest-rated vegan cookbooks on Amazon. Vegetaian Times usually has good recipies and labels which ones are vegan, and is probably available at your local library. Good luck! Going vegan is can be a long process and it helps to have lots of wonderful recipies to keep you happy. And don't forget your vitamin B12!

Hi, I've been a vegetarian for 8 years now. I've tried going vegan, but I'm often too lazy. Good books and websites are:

• Eat to Live by Dr. Joel Furhman - very "cold turkey" approach. Don't have to be vegan on this plan. Or vegetarian.
• Eat for Health by Dr. Joel Fuhrman - non-cold turkey approach. Eases you into healthy eating. Don't have to be vegan or vegetarian. Expounds the cancer-fighting benefits of fresh fruits and veggies. Paid membership for access to forum and teleconferences.
• www.drmcdougall.com - Free newsletters. Free podcasts (though old). Free 12-day meal plan on his site. Friendly doctor who will respond to emails, too. Helped me with vegetarian eating. I LOVE his Quick & Easy Cookbook. He's more realistic to me than Dr. Fuhrman in that it's easy to keep the pantry stocked McDougal styles (with starches) than Dr. Fuhrman style - all veggies. Free forum on Dr. McDougall's site.
• www.fatfreevegan.com
  

Best of luck! I love talking about this stuff, to PM me any time!

-Kayll