Beginners guide to whole-foods, plant-based living!

What exactly does it mean to eat whole-foods, plant-based foods? In its simplest form, a whole-foods, plant-based diet means that you are only eating natural, minimally-processed foods that don’t come from animals. This diet allows you to meet all of your nutritional needs (stay tuned for my next article about the protein myth).

Whole food describes natural foods that are not heavily processed. That means whole, unrefined, or minimally refined ingredients.

Plant-based means food that comes from plants and doesn’t contain animal ingredients such as meat, milk, eggs, or honey. (statements taken from forksoverknives.com)

Health is the main reason our family has decided to transition into this style of eating. As I shared in welcome blog, I’ve always had stomach and digestive problems. I was open to trying anything. A plant based diet changed my life. Once I got rid of the meat, dairy, and processed sugar I saw instant results. My face cleared up, I had more energy, my stomach aches vanished, I had regular bowel movements (TMI, I know), my back and joint pain decreased, etc. It was a hard transition at first…it was breaking 20 years of patterns and addictions, but the struggle was worth it.

Health has always been my first rationale for choosing a whole-foods, plant-based diet, but I’ve learned so many other reasons to appreciate it. By choosing not to eat animal products, I’ve created a much lighter environmental footprint than I would have otherwise. I’m investing in my future health by promoting disease prevention. I’m standing up for the cruel treatment of the animals slaughtered for food. There are many reasons to choose this path. It’s important that your decision to choose a whole-foods, plant-based is deeply rooted in a cause you care about. I’ve found that my health has motivated me to continue this path with fervor.

What do I eat? Dude… everything! Just look at some of my recipes! There is a misconception that vegans/plant-based eaters are stuck with their iceberg lettuce salads and apples. I’ve eaten foods I’ve never even heard of before, experimented with new spices, learned to grow my own veggies, and adapted my favorite recipes like mac-&-cheese to be plant based. I also still enjoy desserts (see the sweet treats tab). The key is to be willing to try new things and experiment with flavors and textures. You will never be bored eating plant-based, trust me! Here’s a link for 55 exciting plant-based recipes >> https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/plant-based-diet-recipes/

How do you plan and execute a whole-foods, plant-based diet? This might me the most important facet of transitioning into a new diet. Planning is key. Meal prep is key. Each week, I plan out my meals and create a menu and grocery list that aligns with my budget (I’m a poor college student). Since you go through so much produce it helps to only plan half the week at a time. Choose a time to dedicate to meal prep and stick to it. At our house, it’s Sunday afternoons and evenings. Being prepared for the week is truly what keeps this diet possible for me. I if did not always have snacks ready to go and meals prepped, I would find myself in the McDonald’s drive through. My advice is to always carry snacks with you, like Larabars or bananas, so you do not run into a food emergency .

Social events are also something to plan for. If you are going to a cookout or party, come prepared. Eat ahead and bring snacks! Going out to eat may seem intimidating, but being prepared is your best tool. Call ahead and unique about vegan alternatives/options, research the menu and see what works for you! I recently went to a BBQ restaurant in Kansas City and had a delicious pulled jackfruit sandwich, I didn’t have to miss out on anything. Don’t feel embarrassed or uppity for asking about meal accommodations. Stigmas around this type of lifestyle are decreasing, as it is becoming more and more evident to people (including doctors) that a whole-foods, plant-based diet is the best thing you can do for your health. Be a proud plant-based planner:)

I hope this little intro helps you better understand what it means to be on a whole-foods, plant-based diet. My next articles will dive deeper into the nutritional implications of a plant based diet, and how to crush the meal prep process!

Until then, if you are interested in learning more, I’ve included a link with some very helpful tips and tricks for getting started! Check it out >> https://www.forksoverknives.com/what-to-eat/#gs.ff0te1