I predominantly eat plant-based and am enjoying the benefits of this lifestyle. I say "lifestyle" because I don't do diets; for me diets are time based activities or plans that ultimately end and so do the benefits. To be honest, I find diets extremely hard to maintain and can be unrealistic for those with busy lives yet, for some people diets can work. Maybe they are a kick-starter into a better "lifestyle" of eating? For me, life revolves around better choices and better preparation to eat healthy consistently and sustainably.
The caveat is that my genes dictate that when I eat too much meat or foods with higher fat percentages it can wreak havoc on my cholesterol and I inevitably will slip over the healthy range. It's frustrating because I consider myself as fit, I consistently train 4-5 days a week, running, cycling, swimming, and strength. I'm within range of a healthy weight (BMI, Body Fat%, etc.) because I eat more plant-based diet and I would definitely be in a worse position if I wasn't. However, there are still ways to eat an unhealthy plant-based diet but eating more plant-based can still be the healthier option in my opinion. Here are few ways on how to maintain plant-based eating:
Eating a plant-based diet is a great way to improve your health and reduce the environmental impact. However, sustaining a plant-based diet can be tricky. The transition to a plant-based diet can seem overwhelming at first, particularly if you are used to a diet that includes animal products.
To start, try to transition gradually by incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. You can start by having one meatless meal a day, and gradually increase the frequency over time. This allows your taste buds and your body to adjust to the changes in your diet. Starting slowly also helps to ensure that you won't feel overwhelmed and give up on your plant-based diet goals. Incorporating cheat meals is also one way to reward yourself if you've been successful over the week.
Planning your meals in advance can help you stay on track with your plant-based diet. Make a grocery list and plan your meals for the week ahead of time. This can help you avoid impulsive purchases of animal products and ensure that you have all the ingredients you need for your plant-based meals. Meal planning also helps you save time and money and saves you from eating out or making unhealthy choices.
If you are transitioning to a plant-based diet, you may need to supplement certain nutrients that are typically found in animal products, such as vitamin B12 and iron. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if supplementation is necessary. With time, you can create a diet that works for you and your health goals. Remember to be patient with yourself and take it one step at a time. With consistency, you can make the transition to a sustainable plant-based diet that benefits both your health and the environment.
Partnering up can be a beneficial way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It provides accountability, support, and motivation that can help you stay on track. You can ask a friend, join a healthy eating group, hire a nutritionist, or use a meal delivery service.
Having a friend or family member who shares your healthy eating goals can be an excellent motivator. You can work together to share healthy recipes, meal prep, and hold each other accountable. Joining a group of like-minded individuals who are also trying to eat healthier can be an excellent source of support and motivation. You can share tips, recipes, and success stories, and you'll have a built-in support system to help you stay on track.
Hiring a nutritionist or dietitian can provide personalized guidance and support to help you achieve your healthy eating goals. They can help you create a meal plan, suggest healthy food options, and provide ongoing support to keep you motivated. Using a meal delivery service takes the guesswork out of planning, providing healthy, pre-made meals that are especially helpful if you're short on time.
Partnering up with eating healthier can help you achieve your goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. There are several ways to get the support and motivation you need. You can choose the option that best suits your lifestyle.
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining optimal health, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and promoting overall well-being. An exercise program can help to complement a healthy diet and keep you motivated to maintain a plant-based lifestyle.
The first step in creating an exercise program to maintain a healthy diet is to determine your fitness level and goals. Consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that you are healthy enough to exercise and to help you create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
When it comes to exercise, variety is key. Aim to include a combination of aerobic exercise, strength training, and flexibility exercises in your routine. Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, helps to improve cardiovascular health and burn calories. Strength training, such as weight lifting or bodyweight exercises, helps to build muscle and increase metabolism. Flexibility exercises, such as yoga or stretching, can help to improve range of motion and prevent injuries.
It is important to enjoy the exercise you choose and make it a part of your lifestyle. Find activities that you enjoy and that fit into your schedule and make them a priority. Once you have an exercise plan in place, you will find that eating healthy comes easier.
We've gone through a few ways that I find help maintain my plant-based diet lifestyle. They are an effective way to improve your health and also the health of the planet. By gradually transitioning to a plant-based diet, planning meals, and incorporating a variety of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes, you can create a sustainable and nutritious diet. Additionally, partnering up with friends or family members and incorporating regular exercise into your routine can help to maintain motivation and support overall health and wellness. By making these lifestyle changes, you can achieve optimal health.