I’m now a chegan “cheating vegan”

It’s amazing how much my perspective on food has shifted over the past few months. When I first heard the term 'chegan,' it really resonated with me, even though I hadn't quite put a label on my own journey yet. Essentially, being a 'chegan' means you're primarily vegan, but you allow yourself to 'cheat' occasionally or regularly with non-vegan foods, most commonly dairy and fish. For me, it wasn’t about cheating; it was about listening to my body and finding a more sustainable way to nourish myself. I spent a significant time as a strict vegan, genuinely believing it was the healthiest path for me. However, after a while, I started noticing persistent issues. The constant hunger was draining, making it hard to focus, and frankly, my mood often felt flat. It wasn't just about feeling physically hungry; it was a deeper sense of never truly being satisfied after meals, no matter how much plant-based food I ate. I realized that for my body, something was missing. This feeling of depletion eventually led me to question if my strict vegan diet was truly serving my well-being. The decision to reintroduce dairy and fish wasn't taken lightly. I started slowly, focusing on high-quality, ethically sourced options. My first step was adding some creamy, raw dairy. I found myself savoring a small portion of artisanal cheese with crackers, something I hadn't allowed myself in ages. The satisfaction was immediate – not just physically, but mentally too. It was a comforting feeling, a sense of nourishment that had been absent. Then came fish, starting with some fresh, high-quality sushi rolls. The image of a sushi box reminds me of those early, delicious reintroductions; a real treat that felt like a missing piece clicking into place. The change in my energy levels has been profound. I no longer feel that constant fatigue or the brain fog that used to plague me. My workouts feel more robust, and I have sustained energy throughout the day without relying on endless snacks. Beyond the physical, my mood has significantly improved. It’s like a cloud has lifted. I attribute this largely to feeling truly satiated after meals. When your body is getting what it needs, your mind often follows suit. The plate of cheese cubes and olives, as seen in the images, symbolizes this newfound dietary freedom and the positive impact on my mental well-being. For anyone considering a similar path, I'd suggest starting gradually and listening intently to your body's signals. Don't feel pressured to define yourself rigidly. Maybe it's just adding a little high-quality cheese or a serving of wild-caught salmon a few times a week, as I did. Perhaps you'll find, like me, that incorporating certain foods (and yes, for some, even a carefully chosen gluten source, though my focus was dairy and fish) can make a world of difference. It’s about finding your personal balance, not adhering to someone else’s rules. My journey as a 'chegan' has taught me that health isn't one-size-fits-all, and sometimes, the most nourishing choice is the one that brings you genuine satisfaction and sustained well-being.