How to eat a whole foods plant-based diet.

The term vegan comes with a lot of weight and some switch their diets to a vegan one, but maybe their health doesn't improve. This is probably because they are not eating a whole foods plant-based diet. Any diet, vegan or not can have unhealthy junk foods in it. Grocery stores are filled with "foods" that really shouldn't be looked at as food because they are not life-giving.

Whether you are vegan or just trying to eat a healthier diet, it is important to redefine what real food is outside of societal norms. Unfortunately, many "foods" have become normalized even though they do not promote health and well-being.

So, let's redefine what food is on a whole-food plant-based diet.

When switching to a whole foods plant-based diet, it is important to reevaluate your relationship with food. There are many "foods" that can be found in the grocery store that should not be considered food or life-sustaining. Real food builds our bodies up and helps them run most efficiently.

What we eat should enhance our life and not deplete it. Let's start with what food is not.

Real Food Is Not:

• Highly / Ultra Processed. These foods are altered in some way during preparation. They often have added sugar, salt, fat, artificial additives, or preservatives. Examples: hot dogs, and salty or sugary snacks.
• Artificial Additives. These are ingredients added to foods to enhance flavor, appearance, or shelf life, but can come with health risks. Examples: sweeteners, chemicals, dyes, and flavoring.
• Added Sugars. Added sugars are highly processed and refined and do not provide any nutrients. They add extra calories and can cause health problems in the long run. Examples: cane sugar, cookies, cakes, energy drinks, and soda.
• Refined. Refined foods are highly processed foods that are stripped of their natural fiber and nutrients. Examples: white rice, white flour, and cane sugar.

Start paying attention to the packaged foods you are buying and their ingredient list. Avoid buying foods with a large list of complicated ingredients.

Real Food Is:

Naturally Colorful.

Comes from the Earth.

Highly nutritious.

Give us energy.

Make us feel good.

Real food is whole and minimally altered. For example fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

Keep in mind, if you are truly eating a whole food plant-based diet most of your shopping will be done in the produce section.

If you are not sure where to get started, check out our going plant-based course that will guide you to make more health-conscious decisions and eat more whole plant-based diet.

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This diet shift will help improve overall health and well-being. Get ready for better digestion, more energy, and delicious foods filled with life-enhancing nutrition.

Check out these quick and easy plant-based meals in 30 minutes or less.