Why I Gave Up Meat —And Why I Just Ate It Again

I didn’t eat any meat.

Not a wing. Not a nugget. Not even a sliver from the kids’ plate.

I stopped eating meat on January 3rd nearly two years ago. It wasn’t a moral decision, and it wasn’t about going vegan or following a trend. It was personal.

At the time, I was dealing with intense bloating, brain fog, tiredness, and dizzy spells. I couldn’t tell if it was hormones, gut health, or something deeper but I had a strong suspicion that meat might be playing a part. I didn’t feel like myself, and I was desperate to reset my system.

So I gave it up; and felt the difference.

I ate veggies I hadn’t touched in years, and I realized I was getting more protein than I thought from plants, grains, and nuts. I was feeling clearer, lighter, and more energized. Then, I reintroduced seafood… and eventually found myself overdoing fried shrimp, fried fish sandwiches, and other rich comfort food. The wellness part started slipping.

Now here I am: Chick-fil-A bag in hand.

Today, I ate chicken! And it wasn’t because I “missed it.”

It was because I needed balance.

It was good as heck though. Almost orgasmic! 😂

But for real, as a wife, mom, and homeschool parent, our meals look like a rotating buffet everyday because everyone eats something different. That means I often end up making three separate meals. And lately? That’s been triggering some low-key anxiety around cooking.

So I made a decision. One that gives me a little more peace and a lot less pressure:

Reintroduce meat (except ground beef, I will never eat that again). Mindfully. Occasionally. Without guilt.

I’m not going back to old habits. I’m not quitting veggies or seafood. I’m simply allowing room for flexibility.

And guess what? That first bite tasted like freedom, almost orgasmic! 😂

The Health Angle:

If you’re wondering whether cutting out meat could help you, here are a few symptoms people (and myself) often report improving after removing meat (especially processed or fried meats):

Reduced bloating and inflammation. Fewer headaches and dizzy spells. Clearer skin and sharper mental clarity. Easier digestion and less fatigue.

But it’s not just about removing meat. It’s about replacing it with nourishing options, not just fried alternatives. I learned the hard way that you can be meatless and still not be healthy.

So what now?

Now, I’m aiming for balance. Meat isn’t the enemy.

But neither is listening to your body when something feels off.

This journey taught me that food is deeply personal, and what works for one season might not work for another. If you’re in a season of trying to figure out what fuels your body best, give yourself room to change your mind.

Your Turn:

Have you ever cut out a food and brought it back later with a whole new mindset? Tell me your story in the comments—or DM me if it’s personal. I love hearing other people’s food journeys!

@raisingmywiredking