WHOLE FOOD, PLANT-BASED NUTRITION

Most of us grew up eating the Standard American Diet (SAD). We crave highly processed foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar. Unfortunately, this diet is making us sick. But we have the power to change that. How, you ask? By eating a whole food, plant-based diet. Want to learn more? I thought so!

What exactly is a whole food, plant-based diet?

I should start by saying that it's really more of a lifestyle than a "diet". It is minimally processed (whole) and focuses on eating primarily plants which include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seeds, nuts and legumes. No animal or dairy products are eaten. Cooking oils, processed sugar and white flour are also a no-no. And this lifestyle will improve your health.

Is this the same as a vegan diet?

Nope. Although they both avoid eating animal products, there are many unhealthy, highly processed vegan options available. Think potato chips and Oreos. So not everyone who is vegan is eating a whole food, plant-based diet. But they would feel so much better if they did!

Ready to make a change?

You don't have to completely change your diet overnight to make a difference in your overall health. Start small and build from there. Try eating meat only once a day and increasing your vegetable portions. Then move toward eating meat only three times per week (and increasing your vegetable portions). You could begin by decreasing the amount of dairy you consume daily. Really, it doesn't matter where you start. Just start. Your body will thank you!

Here's a delicious recipe from Dr. Michael Greger to get you started!

https://www.cookingwithdrg.com/2016/10/22/dr-gs-favorite-fall-chili/