Positive Change: An Introduction to the Plant-Based Lifestyle

Jul 28, 2020 / Lifestyle

“To begin with, all food was considered as human medicine. Food is the medicine which creates equilibrium.”
– Yogi Bhajan

Ready to make a positive change in your life? One of the best ways to practice self-care is to make sure that you eat well. Following a plant-based diet could be the answer. If you’re entirely new to this diet plan, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s take a look at what this diet is all about and how you can start including it in your lifestyle.

What is a plant-based diet

“The simpler you eat, the healthier you become. It is very difficult to eat simple food.”
– Yogi Bhajan

You may have heard of the plant-based diet, but do you know what it is? This type of eating plan is exactly what it says. You eat foods that come from plants, rather than animal-based products. Aside from that, many people who choose to follow a plant-based diet also avoid other products, such as processed foods and refined sugars. Much like the yogic diet (which is plant-based!), the plan involves eating simple, healthy food.

The staples of a plant-based diet include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. However, it doesn’t end there. You should also use spices to naturally flavor your food when it comes to cooking. When you first get started eating this type of diet, you will need to experiment with a variety of ingredients and see what works for your individual taste.

The health benefits of a plant-based diet

Aside from being good for your spiritual and mental well-being, this diet could help you improve your health. Eating a plant-based diet may lower your risk of cardiovascular disease, according to research from the American Heart Association.

Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally. Heart attacks and strokes are usually the presence of a combination of risk factors, such as unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. Cutting out meat and animal-based products may mean that your heart is healthier for longer. Interestingly enough, the study found that following this diet leads to a 16% lower risk of heart disease.

However, it’s worth noting that not all plant-based diets are equal. It’s important to be conscious of what you eat, even when you choose to move to this seemingly healthy plan. Research from the American College of Cardiology warned against consuming plant-based candy, sweetened drinks, and other products. Instead, if you want to reap the benefits of this diet, you should opt for natural products that have not been processed.

How to get started with a plant-based diet

Want to get started with a plant-based diet? It could be easier than you think. The best piece of advice you will get is to learn new recipes. Cooking wholesome food at home is the smartest way to ensure that you eat nurturing meals. Start with some basics. You could learn how to make some plant-based ice cream for dessert, for example.

You should also focus on getting fresh ingredients, making your own salads, and using grains for energy. Why not get started and try some new meals today? You don’t have to overhaul your eating habits overnight. Instead, take small steps that work for you.