Here, we demystify some common misconceptions about a plant-based diet, explore some of the benefits, and show you how to get started if you want to lead a more plant-based lifestyle. While there is no set definition, a plant-based way of eating focuses on consuming plant-derived whole foods that are unrefined and minimally processed. This means pure, unadulterated ingredients that are in their original form. In terms of what you eat, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, tubers, and legumes are the dietary staples. These foods are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals and provide an abundance of nutrients for your body. A huge concern for many when contemplating a plant-based lifestyle is whether eating in this manner is balanced and nutritionally sound. The resounding answer is yes! As long as you’re consuming a healthy balance of protein, vegetables, fruits, and other fiber-rich, whole-food carbs, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t get the vitamins and nutrients your body needs. However, it is important to be mindful and considerate of the foods that you’re eating. It’s key to make sure that you are consuming a colorful and diverse diet in order to optimize your nutrition. The vegan focus is usually set on avoiding animal products, but the priority is not placed on unprocessed plant-based whole foods. On the other hand, following a plant-based lifestyle doesn’t necessarily mean fully avoiding animal products like a vegan or vegetarian. For plant-based eaters, animal proteins can happily fit into the lifestyle, yet they typically serve as more of a supporting role to your veggies and whole grains. Overall, “plant-based” is more of a broad and flexible way of thinking about nutrition and ingredient quality rather than a rigid diet. As mentioned, with a plant-based diet, the focus is on simple, nutritious, whole foods. Protein needs vary from person to person depending on age, health status, and amount of physical activity. But garnering all of your protein needs from a plant-based diet is simple and achievable. One of the plant-based vitamin all-stars is vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant. A large number of fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, such as broccoli, papaya, apricot, and bell peppers. They assist in stimulating collagen production3, smoothing lines, and reducing wrinkles. Eating whole foods, which are clean sources of carbohydrates, protein, and fruit, sustains your energy more naturally. Consuming foods high in fiber causes blood sugar levels to increase and decline slowly and steadily, without the sugar rush and the crash. Ready to try out a plant-based lifestyle? Here are some yummy tips and recipes to get you started: from filling breakfast ideas, to grocery lists and meal plans. Plant-Based eating made easy with simple recipes & how-to guides on ensuring you meet nutrient needs
