My vegan journey started in 2012/2013. In 2012, I went to my gynecologist for my yearly women's exam. I expressed to her that I was having some digestive issues. I was only have a bowel movement once or twice a week, if that. I had severe gas buildup, meaning my stomach would bloat and ache with gas that I could feel in my shoulders and my back. I could not pass it unless I was laying down on my side, completely still for a long period of time. At this time, I was also having migraines. I'm talking about bed ridden migraines.
I had been on different medications and seen different doctors for my migraines and all they wanted to give me was medication. With my migraines worsening, having them a few times a week, and my digestive issues, I couldn't take it anymore. So, my gynecologist recommended I see a gastroenterologist. I went to see one and at first, he just wanted to give me medication. The medication didn't work and when I came back, the nurse was like, "It usually doesn't work." He then suggested that I cut out red meat and stop consuming dairy because I may have an intolerance for it.
Cutting out red meat was no big deal. I was fine with chicken, turkey and fish. Dairy was a little harder because I loved cheese. My digestive issues improved. I was still having migraines. Over time, I slowly gave up chicken and then turkey. For a while, the only meat I would consume was fish. My digestive system began to work so much better. My migraines had subsided and became more spread out. But there was still something, like a feeling inside that I shouldn't be eating fish. This is around the time I started finding more vegans on Instagram.
After a while, I gave up fish, but I went back to consuming dairy and eggs. The thing is, I was becoming so nauseous after drinking milk or eating cheese. That was my body telling me to stop. By this point, my migraines had completely stopped. I was thankful for that.
The final straw for me giving up all animal products is when I went on a college tour with my job at the time, with the kids from a local YMCA. All we had that weekend was pizza, donuts, and more pizza. When I got home, I became so sick, that the next day, November 17, 2013, I was done with all animal products. I just couldn't do it anymore. It finally registered in my mind that consuming animal products was the root to my ailments.
This journey has taught me so many things and I have met so many amazing people. I feel alive, vibrant, and energetic. I couldn't be happier. My body loves me for it and now, I have to say that health is the most important thing. You only get one body. Take care of it.
LINKS
Twitter: @simplymoniqua
YouTube: @simplymoniquavegan
Pinterest: @simplymoniqua
Website: www.simplymoniqua.wordpress.com
