MOOD FOOD: 3 REASONS TO TRY A PLANT-BASED DIET

When you’re thinking of living a healthier lifestyle, your diet will definitely come to mind. Many people are deciding to try plant-based diets. But with so much information available online and a new diet fad hitting the headlines every other week, choosing the right fit can initially seem confusing.

Plant-based does not always equal vegan, and you won’t be limited only to greens, tofu, and soy milk. Plant-based eating patterns focus on foods primarily from plants, including fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, oils, whole grains, legumes, and beans. There are also different types of plant-based diets that one can follow:

• Vegetarians avoid meat.
• Vegans avoid animal products, including meat, fish, dairy, eggs, and honey.
• Lacto-ovo-vegetarians avoid meat but still consumFlexitarians eat small amounts of meat, fish, eggs, ane other animal products.
• Pescatarians exclude all meats except seafood.
• d dairy occasionally.

With so many options, it’s never been easier to give plant-based eating a go. Here are three reasons to try a plant-based diet, even if it’s only for a week.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Following a plant-based diet will likely help you lose some weight (or at least maintain it). The main reason why people tend to lose weight is that grains and vegetables are digested slower than meat. Also, fruits are filled with antioxidants and fiber, which keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Improve Overall Heart Health

Plant-based diets are linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. That’s because non-organic, non-pasture raised meat contains high concentrations of saturated fat, which, if eaten in excess (excess is the key), can contribute to heart disease. On the other hand, eating raw fruits, vegetables, seeds, and avocados improves your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Prevents Type 2 Diabetes

Eating a plant-based diet may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and improve blood glucose levels in people already living with it. A diet focused on unrefined carbs, healthy fats and plant-based protein can reduce insulin resistance, promote a healthy body weight, and improve blood sugar levels.

It’s easy to include a wide variety of nutritious foods with proper planning. However, if it’s not based on whole foods, you may end up eating unhealthy processed food. Speak to your nutritionist if you’re considering a plant-based approach to your diet.

[RECIPE] AVOCADO PEACH SALAD

Serves: 4

Ingredients (use organic where possible):

• 8 cups arugula
• 1/2 bunch parsley, chopped
• 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup roasted cashews or pumpkin seeds
• 2 15-ounce BPA-free cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup maple mustard vinaigrette
• 2 large peaches, pitted and thinly sliced
• 2 large avocados, sliced
• 4 large roasted sweet potatoes

For an omnivore option, serve with chicken.

Directions:

1. Add arugula, parsley, cucumber, cashews/pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, chicken if desired, and vinaigrette to a large mixing bowl. Toss gently until combined.
2. Serve in bowls topped with peaches and avocados.
3. Serve roasted sweet potatoes on the side.

To Your Health,

Patti