People that do not fully understand the concept of plant-based eating describe it as restrictive or boring. I’m eating lettuce and carrots like a rabbit. Some people say they like things simple and can eat the same thing every day. But the beauty of eating plant based is the wide variety of healing nutrients that you can consume daily. The health benefiting antioxidants and phytonutrients come in a variety of colors. A simple way to assess the nutrient density of your food intake is to look at the variety of colors and types of plant you are consuming.
I would like to share a quick mental assessment of the food I consumed yesterday.
Chia seeds, Papaya, Mango, Grapes, Blueberries, Almond milk yogurt, Coffee, Arugula, Orange bell pepper, Green olive, Tomato, Red cabbage, Cucumber, Balsamic vinegar, Elbow macaroni, Pinto beans, Carrot, Leek, Onion, Garlic, Cumin
Red pepper, Paprika, Tofu, Turmeric, Mustard, Bib lettuce, Whole wheat bread.
Each item contains its own set of antioxidants, minerals, micronutrients and macronutrients. We get a tremendous amount of nutrients throughout the day from a wide variety of foods. Spices count when it comes to healing nutrients, and they come with minimal calories. The foods listed above can be used without generating excessive metabolic waste. Even the byproducts of water and fiber nourish our gut microbiome. Microgreens, sprouts, and spice seeds provide different flavors and tastes to colorful vegetables.
Exploring different vegetables, fruits, grains, herbs, and spices is a way to take control of your health with any ailment. Your body is very capable of healing when given an opportunity and the right ingredients. Don’t fall for supplement hacks instead of eating the whole foods. The backbone of health is consuming the whole food as close as it came out of the ground without artificial or chemical additives or preservatives. If you cannot eat a giant salad, blend it with water and drink it.
You cannot regain your health without attention to detail. You cannot regain your health if you leave the shopping and preparation to others, especially strangers in a kitchen you cannot see. Most people are very reluctant to eat even small amounts of poisonous substances alone, but somehow justify a bite or two of a poison sweetened with sugar or fried in oil as perfectly fine. You may live through it, but can your body heal in the presence of such poisons?
I do not see a plant-based life as restrictive. I see it as a way to feel great and maximize my potential each day. I hope you join me.