Real Hipsters Are Vegetarian

Most hipsters are vegetarian, it is just a part of their way of life. If you ever encounter a super hardcore hipster, you can probably bet that they are vegan and/or grow their own food. In fact, vegetarianism has grown in popularity over the past fifteen years! Vegetarian food items have doubled in sales since 1998, and there has been a huge increase in a presence of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. While there might be some health benefits to being a vegetarian, this is NOT the reason why most hipsters reject meat. I can speculate four reasons why hipsters go vegetarian:


1. To reject mainstream culture
2. To connect with other hipsters- in the same way that most religions use food and dietary restrictions as a way to connect and celebrate their cultures, hipsters use vegetarianism to create a special  bond with other hipsters. As vegetarians, they are more likely to eat/cook with each other or run into other hipsters at the local market.
3. To make people think they care about the world- most hipsters love the idea of being "environmentally friendly." This is just one more way they can care about the world we live in (or at least let others think they care...)
4. To lose weight- they have to be able to fit into those skinny jeans, don't they? 

If you want to become a true hipster, you will probably have to give up meat for good. However, a fake hipster like you can always fit into the same culture and mindset of a vegetarian while still enjoying the occasional cheeseburger. Here are some ways that you can fit into the culture of vegetarianism without actually becoming a vegetarian:


1. Eat more fruits and vegetables- it is always OK to go a meal or two without adding any meat to your plate. You might even find a few new vegetables you love that you never knew existed! 
2. Substitute with vegetarian options whenever possible- do your research and find out what you like first. If you love tofu, add it to your salads or pasta dishes. If you love beans, substitute a beef patty for a black bean or lentil patty. Not only are these substitutes delicious, but they are usually much healthier than the meat option.
3. Get a vegetarian or vegan cookbook- my personal favorite is the "Meat Lover's Meatless Cookbook." There are some great recipes that are so satisfying they will make you think they contain meat. 

Note: It is extremely important to consult with either a valid internet source, dietician, or vegetarian friend before diving into the vegetarian world. It is easy to totally eliminate certain food groups or essential amino acids that are necessary for a healthy diet when you give up meat. These sources will help you learn what foods will be good substitutes for meat and which substitutes are better for you than others.


If you follow this advice, you will feel healthier, learn about new foods you never knew existed,  connect with fellow hipsters, AND still be able to indulge in that bacon ranch cheeseburger every once in a while!