Cindy: I’ve lived here in Hawaii for 8 years and I have been a vegetarian for over 10 years.

Saradha: Why are you a vegetarian?

Cindy: I’m a vegetarian based on the fact that I don’t like animals to be slaughtered inhumanely for food.

Saradha: What challenges did you find in going or being a vegetarian? How did you overcome them?

Cindy: It was a challenge learning where to get enough protein and nutrients from. Now I know I can find it from all different food sources. Eating nuts, veggies, fruits, grains and tofu, I no longer lack in getting my full nutrients. I learned a lot by attending the monthly Down to Earth cooking classes and picking up informational flyers from Down to Earth and visiting their website at: www.downtoearth.org.

Saradha: What's your favorite vegetarian dish?

Cindy: I enjoy making stir fry’s with the Veat brand Bites and I love all Indian and Thai foods!

Saradha: Do you exercise or do certain activities for fitness?

Cindy: I play tennis and I also play golf. Being vegetarian has given me lots of energy and my body no longer feels weighed down and tired. My tennis game has improved since I changed my diet.

Saradha: As a vegetarian, what kind of snacks or desserts do you like to eat?

Cindy: For a snack I usually go for an apple w/ almond butter and I love the mango cheesecake and carob brownie from the Down to Earth bakery.

Saradha: Do you have any advice for people who want to or are trying to become vegetarians?

Cindy: Do it! If you are thinking about it but are a little hesitant, just go for it! There is nothing to lose except for maybe weight and fatigue and you shouldn’t be scared. It may seem hard at first and that there may not be much food to eat, but you’ll be surprised. There are so many alternatives for meat foods. There is even more of a variety of foods to eat. It takes time to get used to it, but be patient and you’ll find that there are lot’s of great food choices out there. You’ll love it!!!!

Top of page