Our world has taken a drastic change from what it was in February. I look at pictures and think back on how simple life was in February, celebrating both of my boys birthdays with sleepovers and fun times at SkyZone. Gathering with friends and playing baseball. Now, our world looks a lot different and what most of us have been hearing is where a mask and social distance. We could debate for hours why we should or should not wear a mask, and if all of this will really keep us healthy. I have no problem with social distancing and have no problem wearing a mask if needed. I am happy to do my part in slowing the spread of the virus, but all of this has me wondering. Are masks and social distancing really our only options to slow the spread of the virus? Do we have such little control over our own bodies that we are at the mercy of a virus and the only ways to slow it is to change our world? On this point I am going to have to disagree. I believe we have the power to create an environment in our bodies, that would prevent a virus from thriving. How do we do that? One way is through our food.
I realize their are so many factors why some people who get COVID die, while others are asymptomatic, and others have very mild symptoms. I will never be able to really understand it all, especially since I am not a doctor. But I do believe that I personally have the power to create the healthiest body that I can, and it all starts with the food that I put in my mouth. Sometimes what we eat can be challenging with all of the fast food restaurants in our paths, the quick and easy foods that are usually processed and very unhealthy, and all the delicious sweet treats speaking our names at the grocery stores. And yet, I have the power to say "no" to all of those things and put food in my body that will create an environment where a virus can't thrive and grow.
From all of the research and schooling that I have done, the evidence shows that a mainly plant based diet can provide the most vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, and has been proven to help people lose weight and keep it off. Dr. Greger talks about all of this in a book I am reading called "How Not to Diet". It's fascinating to see all of the scientific research that supports plant based diets. As I read it, I can't help but think, "why WOULDN'T people adopt some or all of this diet?". A diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, decrease digestive problems, and can have a positive effect on blood sugar. All issues, when combined with COVID, can be fatal.
So how can you incorporate more plants in to your diet? Most people think eating plant based means eating mostly salads. As a plant based eater, I can tell you I eat salads occasionally and usually accompanied with a meal. To me, salads can be boring. But there are so many options of foods and recipes that you can make to incorporate some plant based meals in to your week. It's not about becoming Vegan in one day. It's about making small changes that add up to long lasting results.
I recommend starting with one plant based meal a week. Overtime you may enjoy it and it could turn in to one plant based meal a day, and grow from there. It's all about how eating plant based makes you feel, and if it can positively impact your health and wellness.
Veggie Black Bean Enchiladas with Homemade Enchilada Sauce is one of our family favorites (guess I will stick on the Mexican theme today). I leave off the cheese to avoid all animal products.
Could you imagine if you had the power to personally change your health and keep you living your best life in the middle of a pandemic? Could you imagine feeling less afraid to let your children leave the house because you know you have helped to make their bodies as healthy as possible? Could you imagine that some of this could be accomplished just by changing the food you eat?
Let's stop believing that our only options to stay healthy and stop the spread of a virus are masks and social distancing. You have the power to change your health and to live your best life and it can start with your food. Would you be willing to try one plant based meal this week? Give it a try and let me know how it goes.
Interested in talking more with Lindsay, IIN Certified Health Coach, about a plant based lifestyle? Contact Lindsay to schedule your complimentary health consultation today!