Why I Went Plant-Based

Why Go Vegan?

Nearly 3 years ago, I started on my journey of enjoying a primarily plant-based diet and treating food as nourishment for my mind, body, and soul. After living for years with imbalanced energy levels, poor digestion, and fluctuating weight, I decided to make a change. I did a lot of research on the benefits of a plant-based diet and how going vegan can help jumpstart a healthier lifestyle. During this time, I also learned that diets high in meat (especially poor quality or processed meats), fried foods, and dairy can contribute to inflammation and chronic illness. As someone who grew up with southern cooking, cutting out these things was a big change for me. I was that girl that always ordered bacon and cheese on her burgers and loved dipping her french fries and nuggets from Chick Fila in ranch dressing! I was committed to improving my health through foods so I gave up my fast food runs for deliciously vibrant homemade meals and guess what ... I loved it!

I now have countless go-to vegan lunch and dinner recipes that are easy to make, mouth-watering, filling, and super satisfying! Check out the recipes section of my website for endless easy vegan and gluten free recipes!

My Sweet Tooth and Vegan Baking

For me, the hardest part of going vegan wasn't giving up meat. As an animal lover, I felt very at peace with a meat-free diet and my digestion had improved tremendously! I also loved how my body felt when I didn't consume dairy. No more bloating and I actually like the taste of almond and oat milk more than cows milk! The hard part ... yall ... was my sweet tooth.

If you've ever taken a look at my Instagram, you've probably noticed that I looooooove sweets! When my family and friends found out that I gave up meat and dairy, they wondered how I planned to live life without Krispy Kreme Donuts and coffee ... (I'd never give up coffee). I sought out on my mission to create better-for-you indulgent and delicious sweet treats like vegan donuts, cakes, biscuits, and more! Now, I happily enjoy dessert every single day and you can too - regardless of your dietary restrictions! 

My blog has tons of easy vegan and gluten free recipes for breakfasts and baking! Like these Vegan Cinnamon Rolls that remind me of Cinnabon but are soooo much better! For a complete collection of my favorite vegan sweet and savory bakes, be sure to get a copy of Light & Easy Vegan Baking! 

Three Years of Plant-Based Eating

It's been nearly 3 years since I went plant-based. My digestion is on point and I hardly ever deal with bloating. I've been able to maintain my weight easily and thanks to my easy vegan recipes, I never feel deprived! I'm not super strict with myself. Because I don't have any true food allergies (other than sensitivities to dairy and gluten) when I travel or dine-out, I am flexible and allow myself to just enjoy being with friends and family. I don't worry so much about what I consume. I'm sure you've heard of the 80/20 or 90/10 rule. I like to live life this way, everything in moderation ... even your new vegan diet!

I also want to stress that a vegan diet isn't for everyone and it doesn't have to be forever and always. Flexitarian is the new normal! I'll be the first to admit, when going vegan, it's super important to pay attention and make sure you're getting the essential vitamins and nutrients that your body needs (this can be more challenging when you don't consume animal products) I have a certification in nutrition but it's super important to listen to your body, nourish it with what it craves, and always consult with your doctor when making changes to your diet!  

To learn more and to receive a collection of 60 easy vegan recipes for every meal of the day, check out my book, Easy Low-Cal Vegan Eats - rated 5 out of 5 stars on Amazon!

If you enjoyed this article, I'd love for you to leave a comment below with feedback or send me a message on Instagram! One of my goals this year is to be more of a resource for my readers. So, if there's any topic you'd like me to cover, please let me know.