Why We Switched to Plant Based Eating

We’ve been doing a predominantly plant-based meal plan since February 2020. We still occasionally eat meat (more so now that I’m pregnant), but that’s limited to 1-2 nights a week. I’ve had a lot of questions about why we decided to switch and how it’s made us feel etc. so I wanted to finally address some of that in this short post!

Here are a few reasons we became plant-based:

· Overall Health – neither Zach nor I had or have any underlying health conditions to be overly concerned about but we both have family history. Both sides have cancer histories, heart conditions, and high blood pressure to name a few, so when it came to switching for our long term health it was a no brainer. After being plant-based for about 2 months both of us saw a significant increase in our overall endurance, energy levels during the day, and a decrease in bloating.

· Decreased our Cravings – switching over to plant-based has significantly reduced my sugar cravings, sugar crashes, and the need for excess caffeine. You get such a nutrient dense diet through this plan that it helps regulate all of those nasty feelings.

· Feel Less Bloated -- Plant foods reduce inflammation. Plants’ essential nutrients work to resolve inflammation in your body. The same antioxidants that boost your immune system also go around your body neutralizing toxins from pollution, processed food, bacteria, viruses and more. Since we switched both of us have felt significantly less bloating after meals which is from water retention and inflammation caused by foods. Prolonged inflammation can damage your body’s cells and tissue and has been linked to cancer and other inflammatory diseases like arthritis. A plant-based diet may protect you because it removes some of the triggers to these diseases.

I know that some people think that when you eat only plant based meals, you’re depriving your body of essential nutrients and vitamins and for some that may be true if you’re not watching your meals. But this fact is true for most Americans who are nutrient deficient in several areas.

Here are some vitamins/supplements you might consider adding to your daily regimen if you decide to switch:

· Vitamin B12 -- Vitamin B12 is important for many bodily processes, including protein metabolism. Too little vitamin B12 can lead to anemia and nervous system damage, as well as infertility and bone and heart disease. The daily recommended intake is 2.4 mcg per day for adults, 2.6 mcg per day during pregnancy, and 2.8 mcg per day while breastfeeding. Here is the vitamin both Zach and I take.

· Vitamin D – This vitamin influences many other bodily processes, including immune function, mood, memory, and muscle recovery. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin D for children and adults is 600 IU (15 mcg) per day. The elderly, as well as pregnant or lactating women, should aim for 800 IU (20 mcg) per day. Sadly not a lot of foods have vitamin D which is why both vegetarians and omnivores alike are often lacking in this nutrient. Here is the combo calcium + vitamin D gummie I take.

· Omega-3 (DHA) -- Adequate dietary levels of this vitamin are important for brain development and reducing the risk of inflammation. Most health professionals agree that 200–300 mg per day should be sufficient. I use this supplement for a healthy pregnancy as well as my daily DHA/Omega intake.

If you decide to make the switch (or even if you’re just curious about your current nutrient intake) talk with your doctor on what nutrients you might be lacking and start supplementing! It’s so easy to get all of the essential vitamins and nutrients our bodies need to function properly these days even if it’s not from diet alone.

Wanting more info on plant-based meal plans? I’ve created a weekly meal plan to help out beginners in transitioning to a more plant-based plan and I’d love to share! Simply fill out this form and get yours today!