Learn From My Plant-Based Diet Mistakes So You Don’t Have to Repeat Them!

When I first decided to go plant-based, I was excited, motivated, and... completely clueless. I thought swapping meat for salad was the way to go—but I was tired, constantly hungry, and craving everything I thought I was supposed to give up.

Sound familiar?

If you're just starting your plant-based journey (or thinking about it), know this: it's normal to make mistakes. But the more you know up front, the smoother your transition will be—and the better you'll feel. Let’s break down the most common mistakes people make when going plant-based and how you can avoid them like a pro.

1. Not Eating Enough Calories

Plants are less calorie-dense than animal products, so you might need to eat more volume than you’re used to. Many beginners unintentionally under-eat, leading to fatigue, headaches, and cravings.

Fix It: Load your plate with legumes, grains, nuts, and starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes and squash.

2. Relying on Processed Vegan Foods

Just because it’s vegan doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Many processed plant-based foods are full of sodium, oils, and additives.

Fix It: Prioritize whole foods—beans, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds—over packaged meat substitutes and snacks.

3. Skipping Protein Sources

Protein is essential—but plant-based eaters often skip or underestimate how much they need.

Fix It: Include lentils, tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, quinoa, edamame, hemp seeds, or other plant-based proteins in each meal.

4. Forgetting About Iron and B12

Without meat and dairy, you need to be intentional about getting enough B12 and iron.

Fix It: Eat iron-rich plants like lentils and spinach with vitamin C sources, and take a regular B12 supplement.

5. Not Planning Ahead

If you don’t prep or plan your meals, it’s easy to grab convenience food or fall back into old habits.

Fix It: Prep staples like grains, beans, and roasted veggies at the start of the week. Keep snacks on hand like fruit, hummus, or trail mix.

6. Going All-In Overnight (and Burning Out)

Drastically changing your diet overnight can be stressful and unsustainable for most people.

Fix It: Ease in. Try Meatless Mondays or swap one meal a day to plant-based. Gradual shifts make long-term success more likely.

7. Not Reading Labels

Some packaged foods contain hidden animal products—like whey, casein, or gelatin.

Fix It: Get in the habit of reading ingredient labels and learning which ones to avoid.

8. Ignoring Your Cravings

Ignoring your cravings can lead to bingeing or feeling unsatisfied.

Fix It: Identify the craving and find a plant-based alternative. Craving something salty? Try roasted chickpeas. Sweet tooth? Go for dates or dark chocolate.

9. Not Getting Support

It’s hard to stay motivated if you feel alone in your journey.

Fix It: Follow plant-based creators, join online groups, and share your wins with others. You’re not alone!

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10. Being Too Hard on Yourself

Perfection isn't the goal—progress is. One non-vegan meal doesn’t mean failure.

Fix It: Be gentle with yourself. Focus on progress, not perfection. This is a journey, not a race.