Be mindful about your meals throughout the week and remember that vegan does not automatically mean healthy. Make sure to do your research on plant-based proteins. Try out seitan, tofu, lentils, beans, and other proteins to keep you full and feed your muscles.
Another consideration to keep in mind are the micronutrients that the body needs. Meat includes micronutrients like iron, zinc, potassium, and vitamin B. All of these are important to daily human function and promoting a healthy body.
However, meat is not the only way to get these nutrients! Like previously stated, it’s essential to be mindful of what you are putting in your body. Since you will be following a more ‘non-traditional’ diet, reconsider how you construct your meals and what your body needs.
Increase your consumption of fibrous fruits and dark, leafy green vegetables to get a good selection of essential micronutrients. Beans and lentils contain iron and potassium.
Iron is essential in producing hormones and helps make the proteins necessary for red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.
While a plant-based diet is an effective way to manage diabetes and live healthier, it’s not the only way and sometimes it’s not even the healthiest way.
Like all ways of eating, do the proper research to make sure you will be fueling yourself properly.
The best way to approach a plant-based diet is to be mindful about your meals and plan ahead, if needed.
Follow plant-based food accounts on social media or purchase cookbooks from your local bookstore! As always, do what’s best for you and protect your own health.