Shopping Vegetarian:
The first step to shopping vegetarian is searching for good substitutes for your favorite foods. Veggies aren't the only component to a vegetarian diet! Soy is a great alternative to meat and its packed with protein, also, black beans are inexpensive and are a great source of fiber. Make sure that you have some really great vegetarian recipes that have delicious, fresh ingredients. Next, make not of the labels, and check for hidden meat products. Check the labels for gelatin or chick stock or broth, both are known for being snuck into certain products an you should lookout! Before you shop, do your research and ask a lot of questions. Check the brands that are more likely to have real vegetarian products before you go to the store so you will be more prepared. Once you're there, don't be afraid to ask the people that work there or see if there are fellow vegetarians shopping around that are willing to help you!
Shopping Vegan:
One of the easiest ways to know whether or not you are eating vegan food, is if the packaging is labeled with a "V" symbol, it is as simple as that! Make sure that you buy whole foods to ensure that you are getting the best products such as whole fruits and veggies. If you are lucky enough to find a true vegan provider, buying prepared meals is a great way to get tasty vegan options. Also, follow the steps for shopping vegetarian, the can apply to both in most cases! Oh, and eat lots of tofu!
Shopping Gluten-Free:
You can start off your gluten-free diet with fruits and vegetables because a majority of them are gluten-free! Also, many dairy products are gluten-free such as milk, butter, eggs, real cheese and yogurts. Canned fruits, vegetables, beans, rice, soda, juice, corn tortillas, peanut butter, jelly, salad dressing, and unflavored tea and coffee are notorious for being gluten-free, however check the label for every product you buy just in case! Most grocery stores have gluten-free flour, baking mixes, pasta, cereal, snack/protein bars, cookies, pretzels, etc. Look out for items blatantly labeled gluten-free, there are more than you think!
