As a child, Tonia had a chicken named Diana, with whom she was very attached — just as she remains deeply connected with most animals she loves dearly. She could never have imagined, therefore, that Diana — or any other animal — would end up as part of a Sunday lunch. That was one of the reasons she became a vegetarian, a choice she has incorporated into every aspect of her life. Though she notes she hasn’t managed to become vegan like her husband, Kostis Maraveyas, who avoids all animal products, she is fully committed to her vegetarian lifestyle. We couldn’t help but ask her about the lifestyle of a vegetarian, the challenges she faces, and whether she’s ever been tempted by anything off-limits in her diet.

What does it mean to live as a vegetarian?
Speaking personally, I haven’t eaten meat for 18 years. What drove me to this decision was my love for animals. I simply cannot separate my dog from a lamb — I feel the same moral response in both cases, so I couldn’t choose a different dietary path. Beyond that, and aside from the environmental benefits of not eating meat, I think the number one reason to consider becoming vegetarian is for your health.

Meat remains one of the most carcinogenic foods on the planet, due to production methods, medications animals consume, and — crucially — their emotional state. Stress and fear cause animals to release toxic hormones that are extremely harmful to humans. So clearly, by not eating meat, you not only reduce your carbon footprint, but you also protect your own health. In fact, I personally believe this may be why I rarely get sick. I haven’t had a fever since I was 17, and I’ve never caught COVID. Maybe that’s coincidence, but perhaps it’s also linked to my strong immune system due to healthy eating.

I think everyone should take responsibility and become as vegan or vegetarian as they can, embracing the broader lifestyle — like using their car less, walking more, and doing whatever’s possible. I feel very happy with myself and this decision, especially when I consider the collective consciousness we’re all called to serve.

How easy is it for a vegetarian to eat out or adapt socially?
For me, since I eat cheese and eggs, it’s very easy. Extremely easy. Plus, the Mediterranean diet is about 90% vegan — it’s based on vegetable dishes in olive oil. My favorite food is stuffed vegetables. And when it comes to international cuisine, it’s a huge myth that vegetarian menus lack creativity. On the contrary, many meat-eaters tend to just pair a steak with some carbs or cheese. That, to me, is incredibly boring. Whereas vegetarians often have more imaginative options.

On the other hand, being vegan is probably more limiting — I see that with my husband — but it also depends on where in the world you are. For instance, it’s very different being in Italy and ordering a great aglio e olio, compared to being in a mountain village in Greece. But still, the gift you give yourself by not always finding exactly what you want — I think that far outweighs the perceived sacrifice.

Are there moments when you crave something excluded from your diet?
The truth is, I’ve never craved anything to do with meat. I can’t even stand the smell of my dog’s food, though of course I would never stop him from eating meat — that would be absurd. However, since I’ve learned to cook vegan meals, I make different dishes like tofu steak, or buy from brands that make alternative burgers, available at most stores. In any case, meat is something I’ve completely erased from my memory.