Thriving Not Just Surviving: Embracing the Plant-Based Life

If you have a story to share or a recipe to add, email us at [email protected].

We are motivated by helping people live the best life they can and not profits.

Discover how our plans combine the power of paleo and keto for dramatic health results --improve skin texture and help with inflammation--all while enjoying yummy meals that help you reach your goals.

Learn from wellness gurus who are there to support and help you along your journey; nourish your body with delicious recipes created by nutrition experts that use only natural ingredients.

Kickstart your journey by attending our monthly webinars or getting personalized one-on-one advice when you join our exclusive members' club.

Our social media presence helps keep everyone connected and enlightened about the newest topics in healthy living and nutrition; we also host hangouts where celebrities talk about their personal transformations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a plant based diet be dangerous?

Many people have enjoyed the health benefits of adopting a plant based diet. However, any type diet can prove to be dangerous if it's not properly managed. When switching to a plant-based diet, it is important to ensure that proper vitamin and mineral intake is taken, including B12, iron and zinc. Negative health effects can be caused by eating a poor diet that does not include replacements for these nutrients. A vegan/plant-based lifestyle can also mean avoiding dairy and eggs which could lead to muscle loss. People who follow a plant-based diet must adapt their diets to meet their nutritional needs.

What is the difference between a plant-based and vegan diet?

No, a plant-based diet is not the same as a vegan diet. A plant-based diet is an eating plan that focuses on mainly consuming fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and whole grains. This eating pattern generally reduces or eliminates animal products like meat and dairy. However, some animal proteins may still be consumed. Veganism, on other hand, is an ethical lifestyle choice. It involves eating a plant-based diet and avoiding cosmetics or clothing made with animal products. Even though vegans may opt to follow a plantbased diet as part or their lifestyle, they are different concepts.

Is it possible to reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases by eating a plant-based diet?

Because of its many environmental and health advantages, plant-based eating is growing in popularity. It is a diet that consists primarily of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The benefits of a plant-based lifestyle include better heart health, improved digestion, energy levels and reduced stress hormones. One can get enough protein on a plant-based diet by eating excellent alternative protein sources on a plant-based diet.

What are the benefits to a plant-based lifestyle?

A plant-based diet has many health benefits including better digestion, improved heart health, increased energy, decreased stress hormones and potential environmental protection. Soy-based protein is made from legumes, beans and whole grains. It has higher fiber and lower levels of saturated fat than animal proteins. Plant-based diets contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. They can help prevent cell damage from inflammation, oxidative damage, and other chronic illnesses like cancer. A higher intake of fruits and vegetables may increase fiber intake. This can help feed the gut bacteria and improve digestion. Research suggests that eating a plant-based diet can improve moods and reduce stress hormones. Alternatives to factory farming are also becoming popular, such as switching away from animal protein.

What other protein sources can I use instead of meat?

Protein is an essential component of a healthy diet and can be found in animal- and plant-based sources. Plant-based proteins include legumes (nuts and seeds), beans, lentils (wheat gluten), seitan (wheat flour), and hemp seeds. A high level of antioxidants can be found in many vegetables and fruits which can offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Oat and almond milk, two dairy substitutes that are fortified, provide a plant-based alternative to cow’s milk. Alternatives such as pumpkin seeds or nutritional yeast can give dishes a richer, cheesier flavor than animal-based ones. They also provide more micronutrients. Various vegan protein powders suitable for shakes or smoothies are also great for adding extra nutrition without consuming animal products.

Is it possible for a plant-based diet to help you lose weight?

Yes, a plant-based diet is able to help you lose weight. A variety of fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, whole grains, and other plants-based proteins can give you enough volume to feel full without adding calories from unhealthy fats and carbohydrates. 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 shows that eating a plant-based diet can help increase metabolism and decrease the risk of obesity. 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.

Are plant-based diets environmentally sustainable?

Because of their health and environmental benefits, plant-based diets are growing in popularity. Plant-based food is generally more sustainable than food derived from animal resources. This is because it produces less greenhouse gases and causes less pollution. Because plants are grown with less inputs than animal products, a plant-based diet uses less water and other resources. In addition, animals that are commercially farmed often require large amounts of water, land, and fossil fuel resources. Global warming has been linked to some environmental effects of livestock farming. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the carbon footprint of individuals by including more plant-based meals in one's weekly meal plan. This will help support more sustainable, healthier practices.

Statistics

• A study found that livestock provides just 18 percent of calories consumed globally but takes up 83 percent of farmland. (forksoverknives.com)
• 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)

External Links

[TAG56]

• How common is vitamin B-12 shortage? Oxford Academic

[TAG58]

• Diabetes

[TAG60]

• ScienceDirect: Plant-Based Diets to Improve Personal, Population and Planetary Health

[TAG62]

• PubMed: The long-term effects of diabetes on beta-cell function


• A Plant-Based Dietary Intervention Improves Beta-Cell Function & Insulin Resistance in Adults Overweight: A 16-Week Randomized Clinical Test - PubMed

How To

How to transition to a plant-based diet without feeling overwhelmed?

The transition to a more plant-based diet can seem overwhelming at first. But, with proper preparation and education, it's possible. Start slowly and make small changes to your diet. For example, replace animal protein with plant-based protein. Whole foods are healthier and filling than processed alternatives.

You can get the best results from meal planning and meal prep if you are dedicated. Map out your meals in advance to plan what you will need to buy and how long to prepare each dish. You can simplify your kitchen by investing in multi-cookers or slow cookers. Batch cooking will allow you to prepare multiple meals at once.

Don't be afraid to try new flavours. You can add variety to your vegan diet by trying different cuisines, such as Indian curries and Chinese tofu. Aim to create a grocery list based on recipes instead of relying on impulse shopping at the grocery store. It'll be much easier to switch once you have the right ingredients.

Resources:

[TAG65] Full Episode coming soon...

[TAG66] Interview with Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn Reversing Heart Disease with Plant based Diet

[TAG67] Chili using walnuts, this was amazing!! FOLLOW ME: IG: @Natural_veganchef

[TAG68] Everyone Can Do This! Visit For more info on the VeganStrong team visit and Subscribe to their channels here: @veganstrongteam4935 @plantbuilt

[TAG69] In this video, I show exactly how I make a delicious raw cruciferous salad, compliant with Dr. Brooke Goldner Goodbye Lupus protocol, in addition to a RAW

[TAG70] For episode 7 we sat down with Four-Time NBA Champion and Wellness Master John Salley. John breaks down a lot of info in this episode for both vegans and

[TAG71] No one food can reduce your risk for cancer, but there is an overall diet that can. Learn what it means to eat a plant-based diet and see all the ways it can

[TAG72] The Veganuary Story! Founders Matthew Glover and Jane Land look back over 10 years of Veganuary, with team members and celebrity ambassadors including

[TAG73] Nutritionist & podcast host Simon Hill joins Rich to bust diet myths & prove why a plant-based diet is optimal for human and planetary health. To peruse the

[TAG74] If there were ever a creamy potato dish worth making, it is this one. It’s similar to scalloped potatoes, but better, in my opinion. It comes together…The post

[TAG75] GET MY FREE INSTANT POT COOKBOOK: MY LATEST BESTSELLING BOOK: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- […]

[TAG76] Find out who our judges selected as this year's winners, finalists and commended entries. Watch the full winners ceremony live stream on our social media

[TAG77] Can we talk about how beautiful those rainbow carrots are?! You are looking good today, carrots. This stunning roasted carrot dish features warm whole grains,

[TAG78] Following a plant-based diet (think vegan, vegetarian, or even flexitarian) is associated with a bevy of potential health benefits. That includes a lower risk

[TAG79] Somehow, November is here and it already feels like winter outside. Grace went trick or treating for the first time yesterday in her Minnie Mouse costume.

[TAG80] Have you tried a ranch water cocktail? If not, let me introduce you! Essentially a tall tequila soda with extra lime, the ranch water is more than…The post

[TAG81] Make this spinach salad recipe to serve with your favorite main dishes! This fresh spinach salad features seasonal fruit, creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans,

[TAG82] Appe Recipe | Paddu (Traditional Recipe)It is true that the versatility of a rice-lentil batter, typical of South Indian cuisine, can be used to create a

[TAG83] Creamy and fluffy olive oil mashed potatoes are naturally vegan and perfect as a dairy-free side dish. No milk is needed in this flavourful mash with roasted

[TAG84] Instant Pot Rice Pudding RecipeCreamy, cozy, and super comforting, this recipe for old-fashioned Rice Pudding is made in a jiffy using the Instant Pot. With

[TAG85] ...

[TAG86] Fruit Biscuits (Tutti Frutti Cookies)I’m going to give you a few reasons as to why you should make cookies – they are versatile, customizable, a perfect snack

[TAG87] Chutney Sandwich RecipeGot the ingredients for a delish green chutney and some bread slices at home? How about you bring them together and make this super

[TAG88] Veg Puff Recipe | Indian Curry PuffA lot has been said, in fact argued, on how there’s a difference of skills required for baking versus simple cooking. I

[TAG89] Ready within an hour, this sweet potato kale salad with crispy chickpeas and pickled red...The post Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Crispy Chickpeas, Pickled Red

[TAG90] Who doesn't love a good brownie? They're chocolatey, gooey, and always hit the spot. But have you ever tried tahini brownies? It may sound a bit unconventional,

[TAG91] This coffee smoothie recipe is perfect for busy mornings. You know those days when you have time to make a cup of coffee or a healthy breakfast…but not both?

[TAG92] Choosing more plant-based foods can help you eat a healthier diet. A Heart & Stroke dietitian explains how.

[TAG93] I’ll never forget the first time I tried falafel. Stuffed into pita bread with fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and a big slather of hummus, it was crispy, rich,

[TAG94] These Caramel Apple Empanadas are the ultimate Fall treat! Fresh apples, cinnamon-sugar, and caramel are all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust for a totally

[TAG95] Find over 15 vegan butternut squash recipes in this roundup with options ranging from soup, rich pasta, healthy bowls, roasts, salads & more!The post 15 Vegan

[TAG96] If you're looking for a tasty and healthy breakfast or snack, these banana cranberry muffins are the perfect choice. They're packed with fresh bananas and

[TAG97] These stuffed peppers deserve a spot in your dinner rotation! They’re the perfect combination of comforting and fresh, filled with a delicious blend of rice

[TAG98] If you're looking for a tasty and healthy breakfast or snack, these banana cranberry muffins are the perfect choice. They're packed with fresh bananas and

[TAG99] One of the most powerful steps you can take to improve your health is to move to a plant-based diet. We have everything you need to know to get started here

[TAG100] This keto cauliflower mac and cheese is not only a culinary delight, but also a perfect choice for those following a low-carb diet. Imagine the cauliflower

[TAG101] Roasted vegan butternut squash soup with apples and pecans is creamy and silky without coconut milk! Ginger, garlic & chili makes it so tastyThe post Roasted

[TAG102] Effortlessly organize your kitchen with these Kitchen Labels Template! Personalized and editable container jar labels for spices and pantry items. Instant

[TAG103] This mango smoothie recipe is like sunshine in a glass! It’s cool and creamy, with a sweet, tangy tropical flavor and the cheeriest color around. It tastes

[TAG104] Good healthy lunch ideas are like gold. In the middle of a busy work day, lunch is the longest break I take. It’s a time to reset, relax, and re-energize to

[TAG105] This warm spiced and clumpy apple cinnamon granola is slow-baked with maple syrup, coconut oil, almond butter, pecans & crunchy apple chips.The post Clumpy

[TAG106] Whether you’re considering eating less meat or giving it up entirely.

[TAG107] Apple pancakes: two words that evoke memories of home and comforting aromas. Imagine pieces of caramelized apples dressed over warm fluffy pancakes, ready to

[TAG108] Explore these actionable tips on what helps with digestion and learn how to enhance gut health and promote overall well-being. Digestion is a fundamental

[TAG109] Looking for guidance on how to make the transition to vegetarian? This article offers invaluable tips to guide you through a smooth and fulfilling shift So,

[TAG110] Sun-kissed tomatoes and a crusty baguette pair up for some magic in this simple Panzanella Salad. It's quick, easy, and packed with Italian inspired flavor -

[TAG111] Craving a warm cinnamon roll, but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Enter this Vegan Cinnamon Roll in a Mug. You can whip up a warm, gooey cinnamon bun

[TAG112] Are you looking for a delicious and healthy vegan dinner idea? Look no further than this vegan zucchini lasagna. It's light, healthy, and bursting with flavor

[TAG113] Columbia and NYP nutritionist Sabrina Toledano explains the benefits of a plant-based diet and how to get started.

[TAG114] Get ready to experience the magic of vegan apple honey! It’s a vegan friendly alternative to traditional honey that’s simple, delicious, and easy to make with

[TAG115] These Chipotle black bean burgers are my new favorite vegan burger. They are a meatless burger made with black beans, diced onions, carrots, celery, and

[TAG116] If you are new to plant based eating or looking for a new recipe to try out, give this vegan walnut taco meat for your next dinner. This walnut taco meat is

[TAG117] Hint: Your energy levels, gut microbiome, and environmental impact all win big.