Fighting & Preventing Cancer | Q&A 116: Gut Health & Cancer

By Kirsten Maxwell June 22, 2023 18 mins read 3105 Views

Living healthy is about much more than what you eat. It's about finding a balance between body, mind, and spirit.

At Paleovsketo, we believe this starts with being aware of all the ingredients and sources in what we consume daily.

By understanding how our diet works together with our lifestyle and habits, we can begin the journey to better health.

It's not just about eating the right food; it's also about developing positive behaviors for lasting changes.

The key is basically learning to trust yourself and your intuition when it comes to deciding what’s best for your body.

For example, instead of trying a certain trend because everyone else is doing it or looking at calorie counts on packaging labels while shopping, focus on maintaining an overall healthy mindset and getting into the habit of aiming for a wholesome diet made up of mostly whole foods.

This will bring clarity around choosing better options no matter where you are or what’s available.

Ultimately, only you know what fits within your life and dietary needs - so have faith in yourself!

Fighting & Preventing Cancer | Q&A 116: Gut Health & Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for meat to get protein?

Protein is an essential component of a healthy diet and can be found in animal- and plant-based sources. Common plant-based protein sources include legumes, nuts and seeds, grains, oats, quinoa, tofu, tempeh, beans, lentils, seitan (wheat gluten), and hemp seeds. High levels of antioxidants in many vegetables and fruits can help reduce inflammation. Some dairy substitutes, such as almond or oat milk, are fortified with proteins, making a great plant-based alternative to cow's milk. Alternatives like pumpkin seeds, nutritional yeast, and other plant-based milks can provide cheesy flavors to dishes while also offering more micronutrients. Many vegan protein powders that can be used in smoothies and shakes can provide additional nutrition, without the need to consume animal products.

What are some ways to transition to a plantbased diet?

Although it may seem daunting to switch to a plant-based diet, it can also be a great lifestyle change if you have the right support and knowledge. These are some helpful tips to help you transition into this type of diet.

Structuring meals around whole foods rather than processed items for adequate macronutrients, vitamins, and mineral intake.
We are committed to creating delicious, healthy meals that appeal to everyone.
Creating a support system like friends, family members, or certified health professionals.
Try new recipes to spice up your meals.
Change your lifestyle gradually while still paying attention to your nutritional intake.

By gradually transitioning to a plant-based diet and incorporating these tips into the process, individuals may increase their chances of staying on track with this healthy lifestyle change.

Can a plant diet be considered harmful?

Although many people have seen health benefits from a plant-based diet in the past, it is important to understand that any diet can be dangerous if it is not properly managed or with the help of a professional. People who transition to a more plant-based lifestyle must be aware of the importance of proper vitamin intake such as iron, B12 and omega 3 fatty acids. Inadequate nutrition can lead to nutritional deficiencies and adverse health effects. A vegan/plant-based lifestyle can also mean avoiding dairy and eggs which could lead to muscle loss. Plant-based diets should be adjusted to meet individual needs. If necessary, a nutritionist or doctor can be consulted.

What happens if you stop eating meat?

You will notice changes in your body when you stop eating meat. Your diet will likely be richer in fiber and less saturated fat as you move from animal-based protein to plant-based proteins like legumes, beans and whole grains. This could improve heart health as well as your digestive health. Due to better digestion and the elimination inflammatory foods such as animal proteins, you might experience an increase in energy. You may even find that moods become more stable by reducing stress hormones already triggered by unsustainable levels of stress associated with consuming some animal proteins. Furthermore, switching to a plant-based diet is an increasingly popular way to combat environmental damage caused by factory farming.

Are plant-based diets more costly than other diets.

Plant-based diets don't necessarily have to be more expensive than others. Eating a balanced plant-based diet without spending much money depending on the type and quantity of foods you eat is possible. Rice, beans, eggs, nuts, potatoes and other vegetables can all be inexpensive and provide excellent protein sources at lower prices. You can reduce your food expenses by buying in bulk and taking advantage of sales. Besides individual ingredients, there are now many ready-to-eat plant-based meals that can further reduce your grocery expense.

Can a Plant-Based Diet Help You Lose Weight?

Yes, a plant-based diet can help with weight loss. You can eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grain, and other plant-based protein sources to provide enough volume without having to eat unhealthy fats or carbs. A well-rounded vegan meal plan is usually low in saturated fat and cholesterol-containing foods like red meat and processed snacks that tend to add weight instead of take it away. Research suggests that a plant diet can boost metabolism and lower obesity risk factors, like inflammation. Incorporating healthy food rich in fiber, as well as limiting the intake of sugars, starches and white bread, can help to lose weight and still provide the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your body needs.

Can you get enough nutrition from a plant based diet?

Yes, you can get enough nutrition from plant-based foods. Legumes, nuts, seeds, and grains can provide amino acids to build muscle and stay healthy. Soy products such as tofu contain all 9 essential amino acids the body cannot make and must get from food. Combining legumes and grains with vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, and kale can provide sufficient protein to ensure adequate nutrition. Plant-based proteins have lower saturated fat than animal proteins. This is beneficial for maintaining long-term hunger between meals. Other essential nutrients can also be balanced by adding omega-3 fats to plant-based foods like flaxseeds or chia seeds and walnuts.

Statistics

Another found that following a diet rich in plant foods and lower in animal foods was associated with a 16 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 31 to 32 percent lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. (everydayhealth.com)
According to research published, going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)

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How To

How to navigate social situations with a plant-based lifestyle?

It is not easy to transition to a plant based diet. You will need to manage social situations like dining out with your friends. You can be sure to maintain your chosen diet while enjoying delicious meals. Before you dine out, confirm the options. Not all restaurants are vegan-friendly.

If the venue of choice is suitable for vegans, kick-off conversation with friends and family about your preferred food items; this will minimize ordering mistakes at the restaurant eliminating awkward explanations or misunderstandings about your dietary restrictions. When creating vegan dishes, trust the chef's judgement. Chat with them if necessary to ensure they are fully understanding your needs.

Make sure you are stocked up on healthy snacks and beverages that don't contain animal products before attending events. As your non-vegan relatives settle into incorporating vegan recipes over time, recognize even the smallest gestures made regarding a plant-based diet: after all, adjusting kitchen habits is an ongoing process.

Even though it can seem daunting at first, it's possible to make friends and maintain a vegan lifestyle. Eventually, it becomes second nature; every effort put in results in gradual improvements, so start small and have faith in yourself!