For the past two months, I’ve been what I like to call a modified vegan. I’ve had a slice of pizza or two, and still eat fish where there are no other options, but for the most part, I have cut dairy, meat, and eggs out of my diet. What prompted this change was a Netflix binge watching session- how all great epiphanies come to light. I wanted a movie called Forks over Knives (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7ijukNzlUg) which explained the negative effects of animal products on the human body. All of a sudden, something changed. I started to see food as fuel and not as a hobby or time filler. I wasn’t doing it to lose weight, or to reach any specific goal, I simply wanted to know if my body would feel different. And it did! Here are a few of the ways:
- Clear, healthy skin.
- Easier to wake up in the morning.
- Longer hair and nails.
- More energy throughout the day.
- Less muscle soreness and bloating.
Here are some more benefits listed, although many links like this one can be found all over the web! http://www.wildflourveganbakerycafe.com/2011/08/42-health-benefits-of-going-vegan/
I think it’s important to note, I am not a vegan. I still cave once a week or so, and I modify my diet based on where I am and what’s available. When making lifestyle changes, it is important to incorporate the new activity slowly, and not to beat yourself up when you break it. The biggest downfall of all diets is convening yourself that you have failed when you have a small slip up. Instead, embrace these mistakes and come to expect them! They are part of your journey to health. I hope this new information makes you consider your diet choices, and inspires you to experiment to find a diet that works for you!
- Forks over Knives: The Unexpected Benefits of Being Vegan - November 24, 2015
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- Your Mother Was Right- The MAGIC of Tidying - October 30, 2015