I thought of a great topic that’s really important to discuss. I have spent a lot of time speaking to people about different experiences and reading up on how different diets and foods affect different people.
My Story
In 2017 I went plant-based at age 20 and in 2019 I studied plant-based holistic nutrition and made this my full-time career because I grew so passionate about it. My reasoning was for digestive issues and after I cured myself, I discovered the many other benefits of plant-based eating being the most effective diet for disease prevention and reversal, natural effortless weight-management and longevity.
We often tend to view things as black and white or an all-or-nothing approach. The institute where I studied stated that plant-based means animal products take up 10% or less of your diet. Whether you choose to go all the way or not.
I thought that was an excellent way to look at it so I could appeal and cater to both worlds. Show those with an unhealthy diet or a diet high in animal products how to incorporate more plants, fibre and nutrients. As well as cater for those who are already vegan but may not be going the best way about it (not eating enough, eating too much processed food etc).
Fish
It has been a long journey discovering where exactly I fit on the scale. When I made the switch my FAVOURITE FOOD was salmon (and still is). So I chose not to give it up just to fit into a ‘category’ of being vegan. I also crave it around my monthly cycle due to my hormones. I’ll do myself up a bowl of salmon and avocado with lots of seeds and chocolate for dessert. My body craves it so I’m going to allow myself to have it. There is a reason behind these things..
Ethically speaking, I have been fishing when I was younger. I feel bad for valuing one life over another. Like why is a fish less important than a cow? But if I was in the wild I would catch fish for food but personally wouldn’t be able to bring myself to hunt down larger mammals unless it was a matter of life or death.
Cheese
I also enjoy a mouthful of cheese every once in a while like 2 slices of camembert or a sprinkle of feta on my tomato on toast with balsamic glaze.
I am actually very sensitive to dairy but because I don’t usually consume it the flavour is sooo intense in a good way. For 95% of the time though I will buy vegan cheddar as a treat instead of opting for real cheese.
I also find cheese very fattening. It’s high in calories and gluggy. I’ve found it incredibly easy to maintain my weight since giving up animal products without having to limit calories or even stress about it. Vegan cheese just melts in your mouth and is a lot lighter to digest 👌🏽
Eggs
I actually went off eggs completely for about two years. I put myself off the taste and texture and thought they were gross. After a while I visited my nana who is also plant-based and almost 70! Healthier than ever. But she made me an omelette for dinner using eggs from a local lifestyle block where the chickens actually have a great life. I didn’t want to turn it down then I started buying my own on occasion, only truly ethically sourced.
When I lived in the city I experienced tremendous brain fog and struggled to concentrate. I felt super washed out in my face and ALWAYS fatigued. I was living a much busier life and there was more toxins in the air. Since moving to the country I got my own hens and starting eating eggs for breakfast and I feel a lot healthier and fuller in the face with more colour in my complexion. There are a few things that contribute to this like lifestyle and environment as mentioned above. But I do feel better since introducing them back into my diet as a source of fat and protein.
People Who May Struggle With A Vegan Diet
- I have spoken to people with O blood type and one poor lady had her hair start falling out! Studies show those with O blood type should prioritise lean meat, poultry, fish and vegetables whilst lightening up on grains, beans and dairy.
- Those who have many allergies to plant foods such as beans and legumes, soy products (like tofu and tempeh), nuts and seeds for example. It can make it difficult to get enough variation and nutrients in your diet.
- Individual nutrient absorption. No matter how healthy someone eats, they may not get all of the nutrients from their food. I became low in several nutrients at one stage, then when I fixed a gut issue it all came back to normal again. However, some people may experience this more permanently for different reasons so may need to include more animal products.
Then on the other hand there are people who are 100% vegan, happy and healthy for their entire lives. We shouldn’t be judging each other based off how far along the vegan scale they are. That will only put people off it more and make them feel self conscious! We need to treat it on an individual basis and what makes people happy and healthy.
Another Thing To Consider About Meat
It’s also not black and white as to whether meat is good for you or not. We need to consider the type, the cut, how it’s cooked and more. We can’t compare a chargrilled piece of pork covered in fat to a small amount of shredded chicken or fish in a giant salad. Or a sausage in bread compared to a lean bit of lamb in a white bean stew with lots of veggies. I think we also need to look at factors surrounding meat and how to choose wisely if you consume it rather than “it’s good or bad”.
How Can I Help You?
I have launched my ultimate Eat From The Earth Meal Guide! That way there is something to cater for everyone no matter their preferences or needs. If you don’t want to follow a specific laid out plan, you can simply use them as ‘recipe books’ for meal inspiration. That way you can pick and choose what you cook each day.
All of the recipes are easy to make and can be customised to fit your needs. If you don’t have the exact ingredients or herbs, just use what you have on hand at the time. I dream of making healthy eating something we look forward to rather than dread. As well as making it taste AMAZING rather than bland and boring.
If you have questions or need assistance with anything, feel free to contact me and I’ll do my best to help you along your journey.
