Plant-Based Diet: You Don’t Have to Go ‘Whole Hog’!
What does "eating plant-based" look like for you? How can you benefit your health and still enjoy the things you love?
If I go plant-based will my BLT forever become an LT? It’s all up to you! For some, it may mean giving up all animal-derived products. But, for others, it could mean emphasizing fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts without completely eliminating meats, fish, eggs or dairy. After all, some people feel ‘bleu’ without their cheese! The goal is to make plant-based foods the central part of your diet.
It’s all about conscious consumption.
Eat well live well:
Want to dramatically improve your health? Research shows a diet rich in plant-based foods can be the key. It has been known to reduce the risk of certain cancers, heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and healthy fats such as olive oil and nuts has been associated with a reduction in inflammation and an overall better quality of life. Additionally, introducing more natural plant-based foods and eliminating processed foods and refined sugars will aid in weight management.
It’s actually pretty simple: If you eat better you feel better!
Not all foods are created equal:
High quality, nutrient dense, high fiber foods pack a powerful punch. A healthy well-balanced diet, rich in plant-based macro nutrients, fuels your mind and body throughout the day. High fiber choices such as beans and whole grains leave you feeling satisfied longer by slowing the rate that sugar is absorbed into the bloodstream. It’s a great way to avoid that mid-afternoon slump! A plant–based lifestyle boosts your energy and reduces ‘brain fog’ to the benefit of your overall mental and physical functioning. Many report sharper thinking and increased clarity after even small changes to their diet. With all the positive health implications, a plant-based diet can ultimately lead to increased longevity.
As they say: You are what you eat!
Saving the planet one meal at a time:
It takes over 570 gallons of water to produce a pound of bacon for your BLT – that’s more than enough water to fill your hot tub! Switching to a plant-based diet can reduce water consumption, cutting our water footprint significantly. Animal farming negatively impacts water security as run- off from animal waste is a major contributor to the pollution of our waterways. Additionally, both animal and fish farming result in the emission of methane and nitrous oxide into the atmosphere – both of which have been linked to global warming concerns. If each person makes even a small shift towards a plant-based diet, it can benefit the environment tremendously.
Big changes start with small steps.
Whether your plant-based diet means going in ‘whole hog’ or simply incorporating more healthy foods into your lifestyle, even small adjustments can have a great impact. Consciously deciding to shift your diet and improve your health will positively affect your life as well as the world around you.