BY CLAIR WHITTY
Did you consider following a vegan diet for January? How did it go? Are you planning on sticking with it? Lots of people feel much healthier and resolve health issues while following a vegan diet. This is partially because dairy products and processed meats may be associated with gut health problems, imbalanced blood sugar, irritated skin conditions, sinus congestion, cholesterol, and cardiovascular health.
On the other hand, meat and dairy products are an important source of nutrients like calcium, iron, b12, vitamin D, and protein, we can’t ignore that. So, if you’re going to try a vegan diet you will need to ensure that you have a source of these nutrients in your diet. Keep a food diary every day to help you keep track, and if you need a few ideas on what to eat we would be happy to help.
Here are some tips to keep you on track. The main thing to do is plan as there is nothing worse than going home hungry and realising that there is nothing in the house to eat. Aim to eat fresh and unprocessed food, and have a selection of vegetables and fruit. Ensure you have adequate foods to provide protein like soya, tempeh, tofu, pulses, lentils, nuts, seeds, and coconut aminos. Plant-based protein powder can be added to smoothies, homemade snack bars or added to your breakfast. Stock up on dairy free alternatives of milk, cheese, and cream. Other handy items include herbs and spices, coconut milk and cream, and jackfruit to give bulk to a dish. Engevita Yeast Flakes are fortified with B vitamins including B12. They can be sprinkled on soups, pasta, and salads and have a cheesy/nutty flavour. Good quality oils like olive, coconut, walnut, flax, hemp, or Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend can help ensure you have a source of omega essential fatty acids. Get into the habit of reading the labels to make sure what you are eating is not overly processed.
One Nutrition Vegan Complete is a supplement to consider when you are following a vegan diet. It can be used to support immunity, bone health, brain function. It contains vitamin B12, B6, B3, D3, Iron, Zinc, Folate, Iodine, and Selenium as well as Omega 3 DHA and EPA from a non -GMO algae. You might want to top up with a supplement like this or something more specific from time to time.
Enjoy the journey. If you have any questions or if you are looking for ideas of what to eat why not call in to see us, we would love to help
Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
