Dear readers,

Today marks a month since I completely converted to a plant-based diet – and wow, what a difference it has made for me.

What is a Plant-Based Diet?

A plant-based diet is exactly what it sounds like: your food consists primarily of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, oils, grains, legumes, and beans. You avoid meat, dairy, and try to steer clear of processed foods.

My Journey

For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with stomach issues. As a young girl, I was constantly constipated, turning trips to the bathroom into a dramatic ordeal that overshadowed my life. My memories are filled with stomach pains and the embarrassment of spending hours in the loo.

I couldn’t wear jeans or trousers because my stomach was so swollen. The other kids in my class called me fat, which led to a deep-seated hatred of my own body.

As I got older, the problem improved somewhat, but I often experienced bouts of IBS. My stomach would swell painfully, making me hyper-focused on my diet in a desperate bid for the flat stomach I never had as a child.

At my most extreme, I tried the Keto diet. For a year, I rigorously limited myself to a maximum of 10 grams of carbs per day, consuming lots of bacon, avocados, eggs, and cheese. Not a fruit in sight! While I lost about 18kg, I also developed a host of other problems. My hair started falling out, and I became anxious about eating anything that might kick me out of ketosis.

Growing up, “fatness” was ridiculed, and women were expected to be thin yet curvy. It took a great effort to wean myself off Keto, and I quickly compensated with other methods to keep the weight off. I also discovered that I was gluten intolerant, which added another layer of complexity to my diet.

I started intermittent fasting, only drinking water or black coffee in the mornings and eating my first meal around noon. This is a practice I continue today, even though I’ve nearly fainted a few times.

When I met my partner, he introduced me to Peloton. Though initially scared to use it, I started with some easier rides and gradually built up my stamina. Now, two years later, my week is filled with bike rides, treadmill runs, and morning yoga classes.

Changes in My 30s

At 35, I’ve noticed significant changes in my body. My mood swings have increased, and I often find myself inexplicably angry, especially on public transport. I wake up at 3 am every morning and struggle to fall back asleep. Acne, which I never had as a teenager, has become a problem. I’ve experienced extreme brain fog and difficulty remembering names. It felt like my body was going through a second puberty or early peri-menopause, and I was not happy with it.

The Turning Point

While on holiday, I picked up Michael Greger’s book “How Not to Age.” This comprehensive guide delves into the science of aging and offers evidence-based recommendations for living a longer, healthier life. Dr. Greger emphasizes that aging doesn’t have to mean declining health and that lifestyle choices can significantly impact both lifespan and healthspan.

Key points include

1. Diet and Nutrition: Dr. Greger highlights the importance of a plant-based diet rich in whole foods. He discusses various compounds found in plant foods, like spermidine in tempeh and quercetin in onions, which support cellular processes that combat aging.
2. Lifestyle Practices: Inspired by “blue zones” where people live exceptionally long lives, the book advocates for regular physical activity, social engagement, and stress reduction as crucial elements of healthy aging

The Results

So, I decided to give a plant-based diet a try. It couldn’t be worse than Keto, right? One month in, and my body has completely transformed. I have transformed.

I am more focused. I have more energy.

The best part? I am no longer afraid to eat! When I’m a bit peckish, I’ll reach for some dried fruit, nuts, or fresh fruit and enjoy it without fear. While I try not to focus on weight, my clothes are becoming looser, and I’m building muscle.

For me, this has been the best decision I could have made. I hope I can maintain this sustainable lifestyle because the diet is so delicious! Experimenting with flavors to create absolutely delightful meals has been a joy.

Thank you for reading, and I hope my journey inspires you to consider your own path to health and happiness.

Thanks for reading,

Laura XOXOXOXO