Before we understand the significance of what a plant-based diet is, it becomes even more crucial to understand the concept of mindful eating. Mindful eating is a form of practice where we fully involve our conscience, i.e. our mind, body and soul to encourage healthy eating choices as well as positive eating behaviors which is attuned to our body and making such food choices which is not only satisfying, but nourishing to our body as well.
Now amidst adopting this behavior of mindful eating, there is a revolution that has come up, if we may call it so, which is the revolution of plant-based diet. Believe it or not, but this revolution has totally changed the way we eat and live now! It not only benefits our health and the environment, but is also encouraging animal safety. And, how? Whereas a plant-based diet revolves around vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, seeds and nuts with very less or zero consumption of animal-based products, such as dairy, meat and eggs, Veganism on the other hand, takes a step forward to completely eliminate animal products and including only plant-based products.
Now, we must understand why plant-based diet has gained such a huge momentum these days. Firstly, we all will agree to the fact that what we eat greatly impacts our mood or feelings. It gives us a sense of joy, but running just after tastes has led to the deterioration of our physical and mental health over a period of time. A plant-based diet gives you numerous health benefits, such as lowering your blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, can help you lose weight faster, etc.
So those who are planning to transition to a plant-based diet, below are a few points that one must need to consider:
1. Stock up on Vegetables: Make sure you increase your intake of vegetables and choose a variety of colorful veggies to arrange your plate for lunch and dinner.
2. Use Good Fats: Try and completely cut down on animal-based fats and include olive oil, seeds, nuts, olives and avocados as substitutes.
3. Don’t Skip Green Leafy Vegetables: If possible, try and include at least one Green leafy vegetable, such as spinach, kale, lettuce, arugula, etc.in your diet. You can steam them, grill them or eat them raw to preserve their flavours.
4. Prepare a Wholesome Breakfast: Start your day with such wholesome meal as quinoa, buckwheat, oatmeal and barley.
5. Consume Fruits instead of Dessert: In order to satisfy your sweet tooth craving, choose any seasonal fruit of your choice.
It goes without saying that plant-based diet has numerous benefits to reap from, whether its improving your health or reducing the impact on the environment, it’s time to embrace this revolutionary change for a better tomorrow – not only for your body, but for our planet as well!