Plant based diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, and you can read more about the clinical research behind these diets, here. If you have decided to make the switch, here are some of the best pieces of advice to keep in mind on your journey to plant based eating.
1. Don’t try to go cold Tofurkey.
When you begin any new lifestyle change, especially those concerning your eating habits, it is not recommended that you make the switch over night. This can be a bit of a shock to your system, and along with some digestive issues, you will probably find it harder to sustain the change in the long run. Your body and mind respond best to gradual dietary changes. So, start small by making manageable swaps in your diet using plant-based alternatives to food you know you enjoy. Start by using plant milk in your coffee, pick one or two days a week to go completely meatless, or swap your butter and baking ingredients for vegan alternatives.
2. Don’t aim for Pear-fection.
Along with avoiding a rapid diet overhaul, ensure that you’re being kind and gentle to yourself throughout the process of going plant based. Try not to feel too much pressure about fitting into a dietary label like “vegetarian” or “vegan” right away, instead focus on going at your own pace to make manageable, sustainable swaps that make your body feel good. If you do find yourself on a night out craving something that isn’t plant based and you cave, don’t beat yourself up. Wallowing in any missteps outside of your diet will only set you back and worsen your relationship with food in general.
3. Trust the process (and ditch the Processed.)
A plant based diet often encompasses those that focus on whole, unprocessed foods as well as being strictly plant-focused. These swaps can be the first that you make, if you’re typically a potato chip kind of person, look into a whole-food alternative that might satisfy your craving and get you excited about your new dietary changes. As you make more and more swaps, keep in mind that you should be monitoring how you feel throughout your dietary changes. Notice how certain foods make you feel physically, how they impact your digestion and energy levels, and don’t force yourself to choke down foods that just don’t feel right for you. Not everyone can like the same leafy green vegetables, and it’s okay to Kale it quits on any whole foods whose impact on your digestion isn’t worth the nutrients.
For helpful tips, more information on nutritional recommendations, and overall plant-based living advice, check out the forks over knives blog and read their guide to making the switch.
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