Why I Changed My Diet (And Never Looked Back)
April is my plant-based anniversary - 2023 makes seven years. The thought was also a reminder of how time waits on no one. I still remember when the lifestyle was just a thought.
During my first year attending Southern Connecticut State University - 2014, as a nursing major, my go-to breakfast was a large caramel iced coffee with milk, two pumps of sugar, and a glazed donut (or two). Most days, lunch was a double cheeseburger with cheese fries - dinner was most likely Conn Hall (basically an all-you-can-eat buffet). I had access to anything, and no one told me it was unhealthy or too much. The first year and experience - I would have done it no other way!
A year later, in my Sophomore year - the dorm had a kitchen, and I began cooking more often. I also switched my major to Exercise Science with a concentration in Human Performance. Being exposed to classes like nutrition and exercise physiology opened my mind to the powerful human body - especially when we take care of it. Switching my field of study helped me pay closer attention to what I was eating and increased physical activity.
I began to research and watch documentaries about how the human body works and the importance of nutrition. I also watched documentaries such as Forks Over Knives, Cowspiracy, and others. After a few months, I decided to eliminate red meat and would only eat turkey, chicken, and fish; I never ate pork and was not a big seafood lover.
The best part of this journey was being free to play in the kitchen; I experimented with food, flavors, and textures. Once I became more confident, the more I thought Could I take meat entirely out of my diet? I did not dismiss it; I tried to nurture it. I began incorporating more plant-based meals and meat substitutes - it was not the worst. My issue was texture and taste - nothing tasted like chicken! I was persistent and did not give up because I wanted to learn to enhance flavors. When I went home on weekends and holidays, I would pay close attention to how my mom would add flavor to food and tried to incorporate those same techniques into my plant-based meals.
Within 4-5 months, I adapted to a plant-based lifestyle. I did not rush or premeditate the steps - I just let it happen. I have two older brothers I have never seen eat meat - they have been plant-based all my life. I never said that was something I aspired to be; it was commendable, but it was not a goal. Now we all eat out of the same pot - see how life works?
I enjoyed every step of this journey and regret nothing. This journey exposed me to food with life, internal joy, and happiness. I did not lose weight or get sick because I did not rush this process. I ate chicken until I became disgusted with the thought of swallowing it. That is when I knew it was time. I continued to feed my mind and body while enjoying the journey and making it a lifestyle.
If anyone is considering starting a plant-based journey, please be gentle with yourself; there is no rush! You are in your lane - there is no competition. Surround yourself with people who promote positivity, nature, and wellness. That will broaden your perspective to imagine yourself living a healthier, balanced, and conscious lifestyle. Seek knowledge - wisdom is everywhere. Documentaries, short films, books, articles - anything that will inform and shift your mindset to learn something new. Remain positive on this journey, and remember there are no rules for a healthy lifestyle. Balance, discipline, and an open mind are the essentials.
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Until Next Time,
