by Nick Lulli

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After working with self-professed "girl gone green" Julie Watkins for 6 months, I'd finally received enough prodding and admonishing to try something "vegan."

I've been consuming animal products my entire life you see -- chicken for dinner from Chick Fil A, some eggs and a glass of nonfat milk for breakfast -- I was in no way vegan.

However, I've always been particular.

I have found that I try to distance myself from the animal at all costs - I don't consume chicken that is dark, or on the bone, I cringe when I see veins and blood in my particular meat du jour, and I only consume the "lean" fat-less versions of it all.

So, after waving chicken sandwiches in Julie's face, she finally admonished me enough (I jest - it is typically me who taunts Julie with various meat products and images) to try this "vegan" product - Gardein vegan chicken nuggets.

After Julie got into a "cat-fight" with a pro-meat family member on Facebook, I decided to take the plunge - I made the 2 mile drive to Super Target and purchased a package of these seemingly healthy and veggie friendly goods.

I'm no chef - I frequent our local eateries, almost always refusing to cook at home.

These vegan chicken nuggets were easy to make! All that was required was a cookie sheet and oven - the only two kitchen items I know how to operate with! After 20 minutes of baking, I pulled them out, and quickly devoured them.

They were delicious! They were...not exactly fried. They were breaded - with ancient grains, according to the company. The chicken alternative was a mixture of veggies, I believe - you could fool someone with these! They were not made with any animal product - no eggs, no chicken - and they were low calorie, too!

Since first trying these delightful little nuggets, I have since made return trips to the store - each time returning with more of these morsels!

So while I haven't made the full conversion yet (I REALLY enjoy sandwiches and subs loaded with turkey breast) - I'm on my way. Gardein can convince you (and so can Julie Watkins)!

 
 
There is still the old protein myth about how vegans don't get enough.  If you are one of those people who wondered where a person eating low on the food chain get their protein, then this blog is for you!  Julie Watkins is entering a figure competition on October 8th and she wants to prove vegans can build muscles.  

Check out her blog at www.veganfigure.com and get access to healthy, protein-packed recipes, workout routines and tips on improving the way you look and feel.  She invites your participation, so please ask questions and get involved.  The video below is a preview from one of her blogs.  She goes over a routine with her trainer, Giles Wiley from Fitness Together.  Watch it and try it out yourself!