Tonight we went to Vegetarian Nirvana Cafe in Richmond. It’s the only Indian restaurant I have found which cooks without animal products such as Ghee. It was great choosing from a menu which was all vegetarian or vegan and it felt great to have so many choices!

We enjoyed rice, papadums, eggplant curry and a lovely kofta style dish. I’m afraid I didn’t take any photos but I’d strongly recommend this restaurant to anyone!

On other matters, I’m finding some unexpected benefits from my vegan eating. I’ve had sleep problems ever since I can remember. Early waking, insomnia, restless leg syndrome and snoring. I even had to stay overnight in  sleep lab earlier this year. In regard to the snoring, it sometimes gets so bad that I have to sleep on the couch! Embarassing to admit! But true. I was referring to a special dentist at a private clinic and was told a mouth guard could cost several thousand, even with health insurance. Well, since I’ve switched to vegan eating, my snoring has gone! Amazing stuff….

I’ve decided to participate in Animal Liberation Victoria’s 30 Day Vegan Challenge. From November 1, I shall be animal product free for 30 days (and maybe more)!. That’s no cheese, no milk in my morning tea, no free range chicken…

A bit about why I’m doing this:

Reduce my carbon footprint

I doubt there’s many people out there who need convincing of the environmental impacts of meat consumption, but for an easy read this article is very informative.

Health

Like many Australians, I am overweight. Obese actually.That said, I don’t believe that veganisms is the path to all things thin (you can read my take on PETA’s “Lose the Blubber, Go Vegetarian” here).

I think cutting out some of the higher fat foods like cheese and meats is a good way towards good health in general, with the added advantage of assisting weight loss. I have a significantly under-active thyroid which I receive treatment for and anything which boosts my energy is a definite plus!

I also believe veganism is a great way to deliberately eat lots of fresh whole foods, without too much processing. Of course there are loads of heavily processed mock meats and the like with all kinds of number additives, but these aren’t really my thing. I’m intending to eat lots of wholegrains, pulses and fruit and veggies.

I like to know what I’m eating

I’ve read a few books on prion diseases such as CJD and I think it’s really scary how poorly the meat industry is regulated. I would like to eat food that not full of hormones, antibiotics the like.

Animal Cruelty

Goes without saying really.

I start on November 1st. I’ve been making lists of recipes and stocking the pantry. Every day or so I’ll be telling you how I’m going, what the challenges are, what I’m cooking and eating (recipes included)! Tomorrow I’ll show you some of the foods I’ll be eating ….