"The program is based on whole or minimally processed plants, primarily fruits, vegetables, whole grains, tubers, and legumes. It excludes or minimizes animal-based foods such as meat (including poultry and fish), dairy, and eggs, as well as refined foods like bleached flour, refined sugar, and oil."
We made this decision after watching the documentary Forks Over Knives which informed us of the various health benefits of a plant-based diet. With both of us overweight and family histories that included diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, and cancer we decided that we needed to take action now to avoid these problems in the future. So we decided to try it for a week and see how it went. Now six months later we are still following the diet and plan to be in it for the long haul.
When I tell people about my diet one of the questions I often get is, "How much does it cost?" This is a difficult question, because like many eating plans that depends on your choices. I do not have the exact numbers, but I estimate that at the beginning of this journey I was spending $100-$150 a week on groceries. As I continued and learned more recipes, I managed to get that down to $50-$100 a week for two people. There are recipes that include expensive ingredients found only at Earthfare or Whole Foods. However brown rice and beans are full of protein and fiber. Throw a few veggies and spices in and you have a delicious meal for a fraction of the price.
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| This is what most people think of when they hear "plant-based" Diet. There are so many more choices. |
Do I miss my old diet? Sometimes. My husband occasionally misses chicken. For me the hardest thing to give up was dairy. I didn't realize how much I liked cheese and ice cream until I stopped eating them. However there are substitutes that while not exactly the same, still help with those cravings. I found a delicious burger recipe to replace meat. For cheese I can use cashews or nutritional yeast. (Warning: For those suffering from gout, nutritional yeast in high in purines and can lead to an attack) As for ice cream I make smoothies or blend frozen bananas, berries, almond milk and vanilla in the blender for a fake soft serve.
Has a plant-based diet improved my health? Some of this remains to be seen. It is supposed to help prevent heart trouble, stroke, diabetes, and perhaps some cancers. I will not know for years to come if this worked. What I have noticed is my weight. Lately I have not exercised as much as I should. This time of year is my busiest plus we have had a major change in our schedules recently. Normally when I didn't get to the gym as much the weight would start creeping back. Now without restricting calories or working out I am still maintaining the weight I've lost and even lost a couple of more pounds. I have never been able to keep the weight off with so little effort.
Giving up meat and dairy was one of the best decisions I made. I realize it is not for everyone, but it works for me. I am getting trimmer without feeling deprived or hungry. Now to make myself some beans and rice for lunch.
What is your favorite plant-based meal?
