Happy February!
It has been long time, and I'm communicating from my newish I pad. Love it but the key board takes some getting used to. Anyhow, we are approaching the Lenten season, on the 13th. And while I'm certain it would be more meaningful to devote my energy to others, I have decided to work on self improvement. I will be challenging myself to maintain a mono fruit island until Easter. I guess you can tell from the title that it will be apples. The good thing about mono fruit island is that you can clean house, but you can eat a lot of food if you wish. I just purchased a bee - autiful box of pink lady apples, a bushel to be exact and I am going to start tomorrow. Mostly because I am not feeling awesome after the holiday where I maintained a vegetarian diet at best. I'm simply feeling like I need to pay attention to my health to be the best mama colleague wife etc. since I wear many hats. Lately, I have noticed I don't feel as well as I normally do, and I have been relying a little heavily on the stimulants. Which is always a sign for me, that I am not keeping up with my wellness. I also tend to become a little irritable, probably from the stimulants. Anyway, I would like to get back to a balanced position. Where I am enjoying good sleep, vitamin d (sun) and exercise. I will be keeping track of my efforts on here daily, so I hope to inspire others, and show people the benefits of mono fruit dieting!! And no - eating one type of fruit for around a month will not cause any unusual health conditions or deficits (in a healthy individual). It simply isn't long enough for that to be concern. That being said, the fruit must be ripe, and organic. And you must eat enough of it to maintain energy. I will be taking vista shine vegan vitamin d, because I have been low, and I am mostly in doors during the winter!
Along with my diet, I will be attempting to be more mindful of my emotions, and actions, with my loved ones. Gotta pay attention to these things when raising toddlers! Really looking forward to making a few positive changes in 2013.
Stats: 118 pounds, 25 percent body fat ( according to home scale )
Other measurements to come...
Peace and love!
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Raw in the Fall!
Hello my fruity ones!
I am writing because my former roomate has reminded me I have not written in several months. I returned to work back in July, and I am really at a good place! My son is back in day care about five days a week --- and seem to be liking things alot.
Anyways, I have been able to easily fit the raw diet into my daily life. I have went without coffee for discrete periods. However, for the moment I enjoy arriving to work, and stopping by the little coffee shop at the hospital. It is a small business after all! Over the last week or so I have been juicing 6 large naval oranges, and drinking the juice with the pulp for breakfast. I do this over the course of the morning. Lunch is 6 very ripe pears. Pears can be difficult for some people to digest. If this is you --- just peel the fruit first, because it is likely the pectin in the skin. Dinner has varied, but it could be a salad, with some more fruit or some other raw dish.
Yesterday, I looked up some additional recipes online. I found a few good recipes on the 'choose to be raw' blog. I then adapted them based on what I had in my kitchen! These recipes are crowd pleasers, even non - raw, non vegans would like them.
Spanish Rice:
1/2 cauliflower
1/2 cucumber
1/2 red pepper
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 to 2 tsps braggs liquid aminos
1 TBSP nutritional yeast (sold at the health food stores)
1/2 tsp of cumin
1/2 tsp of coriander
Pulse all of this in the food processor.
Topping:
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/4 cup cashews (soaked for 1 hour)
1 tsp of "Mexican seasoning" (bought this at Whole Foods in the spice aisle)
Pulse all of this in the food processor.
I chopped up romaine lettuce (5 outer leaves), tomato and onions and put the "rice" on top, and lastly the cheese. This recipe was very easy, and pretty.
Just wanted to let you know, nutritional yeast, is not considered raw. However, many raw chefs use it to flavor recipes. It tends to taste a lot like cheese. It is a great source of B vitamins and protein. It contains about 7 grams of protein in two tablespoons. I would recommend using the "cheese" sparingly as you want to stick to the 80 10 10 standard. I would say this makes enough for 1 to 2 servings with a little extra "cheese."
It has been interesting to see people's reaction when I tell them about what I eat. I like it, because it gives me a chance to brag about vegetarianism/veganism. I am at the point where I don't want to go back to a cooked lifestyle because I feel so good where I'm at. I have become quite passionate about it. I have even found a friend at work with similar ideas. Until next time ... PEACE AND LOVE
I am writing because my former roomate has reminded me I have not written in several months. I returned to work back in July, and I am really at a good place! My son is back in day care about five days a week --- and seem to be liking things alot.
Anyways, I have been able to easily fit the raw diet into my daily life. I have went without coffee for discrete periods. However, for the moment I enjoy arriving to work, and stopping by the little coffee shop at the hospital. It is a small business after all! Over the last week or so I have been juicing 6 large naval oranges, and drinking the juice with the pulp for breakfast. I do this over the course of the morning. Lunch is 6 very ripe pears. Pears can be difficult for some people to digest. If this is you --- just peel the fruit first, because it is likely the pectin in the skin. Dinner has varied, but it could be a salad, with some more fruit or some other raw dish.
Yesterday, I looked up some additional recipes online. I found a few good recipes on the 'choose to be raw' blog. I then adapted them based on what I had in my kitchen! These recipes are crowd pleasers, even non - raw, non vegans would like them.
Spanish Rice:
1/2 cauliflower
1/2 cucumber
1/2 red pepper
Juice of 1/2 lime
1 to 2 tsps braggs liquid aminos
1 TBSP nutritional yeast (sold at the health food stores)
1/2 tsp of cumin
1/2 tsp of coriander
Pulse all of this in the food processor.
Topping:
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1/4 cup cashews (soaked for 1 hour)
1 tsp of "Mexican seasoning" (bought this at Whole Foods in the spice aisle)
Pulse all of this in the food processor.
I chopped up romaine lettuce (5 outer leaves), tomato and onions and put the "rice" on top, and lastly the cheese. This recipe was very easy, and pretty.
Just wanted to let you know, nutritional yeast, is not considered raw. However, many raw chefs use it to flavor recipes. It tends to taste a lot like cheese. It is a great source of B vitamins and protein. It contains about 7 grams of protein in two tablespoons. I would recommend using the "cheese" sparingly as you want to stick to the 80 10 10 standard. I would say this makes enough for 1 to 2 servings with a little extra "cheese."
It has been interesting to see people's reaction when I tell them about what I eat. I like it, because it gives me a chance to brag about vegetarianism/veganism. I am at the point where I don't want to go back to a cooked lifestyle because I feel so good where I'm at. I have become quite passionate about it. I have even found a friend at work with similar ideas. Until next time ... PEACE AND LOVE
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Updates - New smoothies and dressings!
I can't believe it has been over a month since I blogged. I am doing very well. I continue to live a high raw vegan lifestyle (80/10/10). Over the course of time I have slowly gravitated back to raw vegan foods. Although I still struggle with dairy products from time to time (I'm working on it!) I really feel better on the raw foods. At the moment, the only non - raw component of my day is my homemade salad dressing - which I will share with you below! I will be returning to work full time next week - so I have to take my raw show on the road. So it will be interesting to see if and how things change in that environment.
Here is what I ate today (and pretty much the whole week):
Banana and kale smoothies
Banana and cinnamon smoothies
Great big salads with my miso - mayo dressing
Lovely dark organic cherries
Personal watermelons
Peaches
The summer is just wonderful for this way of life. It is totally normal for me to sit down with a big spoon and devour half a full sized watermelon. In case you are wondering - I eat about 2000 calories a day. That is enough to fill me up - give me energy - and keep any cooked food cravings under control. So not the 2500 Plus I was once aiming for, but not too much lower. I still find myself slimming down in the right places. I am currently down to about 122. Which is pretty much baseline for me. (That's down from 130 at the beginning of the year). I am also taking a vitamin D supplement called vitashine. It is pretty cool because it is a tasteless spray.
I have another raw achievement to announce ... not only have I given up diet soda, but also coffee products. It has been a week since my last coffee and I am doing very well. I have noticed less irritability, nervousness and agitation. I have a two year old at home ... and a husband ... LOL so as you can imagine agitating moments arise, but lately I am able to take everything and deal with it appropriately. Where as before I would find myself wanting to rip someone's head off, yell, scream or stomp. I feel more like me! Also, I was having troubles with an energy dip in the afternoon, which I no longer experience. I hope I can keep it up when I return to work full time! Thus far --- all good. What is soooo bad about coffee? It is nothing short of a drug. It gives you "false" energy which you should be getting by sleeping properly and energizing your body with proper foods. It can lead to adrenal fatigue in some unlucky individuals. It's best to use it sparingly.
Here is my recipe for the white miso dressing. This makes a pretty small amount considering my salads are GARGANTUAN. However, I like to keep my fat intake under 10%, so I go easy on the dressings.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Vegan - mayo
1 tablespoon sweet white miso (organic and lower sodium)
1 teaspoon organic brown rice syrup
1/8 cup water (Adjust based on preferences)
I simply mix the "mayo" and miso together thoroughly. Then I slowly add water to get it to the right consistency. It will be thin and white, but not watery. Add the water sloooow. After words I mix in the sweetner. I prefer brown rice syrup for added sweetness. I don't really like stevia and agave is kinda controversial.
I want to also leave you with a yummy green smoothie recipe too.
Ingredients:
4 large leaves of dinosaur kale - stems removed
6 organic bananas (I like 1 of them to be frozen)
1 to 2 cups of water
Add all the ingredients to your blender. High power is the best! If you don't have one ... use the highest setting and pulse it until the kale is well processed. It will all turn a beautiful green color. Don't knock it until you try it. This is a large portion, so you may want to cut it in half. For me, this is 1 meal. It makes about 1 liter of liquid. I find the kale and banana both have strong tastes, and they sort of cancel each other out. So it's not exceedingly strong. Hard to explain - just try it!
Peace and LOVE!!!
Here is what I ate today (and pretty much the whole week):
Banana and kale smoothies
Banana and cinnamon smoothies
Great big salads with my miso - mayo dressing
Lovely dark organic cherries
Personal watermelons
Peaches
The summer is just wonderful for this way of life. It is totally normal for me to sit down with a big spoon and devour half a full sized watermelon. In case you are wondering - I eat about 2000 calories a day. That is enough to fill me up - give me energy - and keep any cooked food cravings under control. So not the 2500 Plus I was once aiming for, but not too much lower. I still find myself slimming down in the right places. I am currently down to about 122. Which is pretty much baseline for me. (That's down from 130 at the beginning of the year). I am also taking a vitamin D supplement called vitashine. It is pretty cool because it is a tasteless spray.
I have another raw achievement to announce ... not only have I given up diet soda, but also coffee products. It has been a week since my last coffee and I am doing very well. I have noticed less irritability, nervousness and agitation. I have a two year old at home ... and a husband ... LOL so as you can imagine agitating moments arise, but lately I am able to take everything and deal with it appropriately. Where as before I would find myself wanting to rip someone's head off, yell, scream or stomp. I feel more like me! Also, I was having troubles with an energy dip in the afternoon, which I no longer experience. I hope I can keep it up when I return to work full time! Thus far --- all good. What is soooo bad about coffee? It is nothing short of a drug. It gives you "false" energy which you should be getting by sleeping properly and energizing your body with proper foods. It can lead to adrenal fatigue in some unlucky individuals. It's best to use it sparingly.
Here is my recipe for the white miso dressing. This makes a pretty small amount considering my salads are GARGANTUAN. However, I like to keep my fat intake under 10%, so I go easy on the dressings.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon Vegan - mayo
1 tablespoon sweet white miso (organic and lower sodium)
1 teaspoon organic brown rice syrup
1/8 cup water (Adjust based on preferences)
I simply mix the "mayo" and miso together thoroughly. Then I slowly add water to get it to the right consistency. It will be thin and white, but not watery. Add the water sloooow. After words I mix in the sweetner. I prefer brown rice syrup for added sweetness. I don't really like stevia and agave is kinda controversial.
I want to also leave you with a yummy green smoothie recipe too.
Ingredients:
4 large leaves of dinosaur kale - stems removed
6 organic bananas (I like 1 of them to be frozen)
1 to 2 cups of water
Add all the ingredients to your blender. High power is the best! If you don't have one ... use the highest setting and pulse it until the kale is well processed. It will all turn a beautiful green color. Don't knock it until you try it. This is a large portion, so you may want to cut it in half. For me, this is 1 meal. It makes about 1 liter of liquid. I find the kale and banana both have strong tastes, and they sort of cancel each other out. So it's not exceedingly strong. Hard to explain - just try it!
Peace and LOVE!!!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Living the high raw vegan life! And my vegan pizza recipe
OMG! It's been awhile since I have blogged. I don't know where to start!
Since the last time I wrote, I have stopped pursuing the raw lifestyle. It was a difficult decision to make because I really really like the idea of it. However, I just couldn't make it stick. And frankly I felt a bit unbalanced! I certainly love all my fresh fruits and veggies --- but the amount of calories required to really thrive on a raw diet is just way more than I care to ever eat. At first I was cool with it, but then it totally turned into a JOB. LOL. I also realized I simply don't love fruit enough to eat it as a staple...PERIOD. Moving on.
I told you about the KIND DIET by Alicia Silverstone, and I have been cooking recipes from that book like a mad woman. I totally recommend this book to anyone interested in veganism (or just interested in incorporating some meat/dairy free recipes into their collection). Pretty much this book is helping me re-create my kitchen, my shopping lists, and everything. I don't know about you, but I am honestly not that creative, and I have my "go - to meals." This book can teach you how to turn your kitchen into a VEGAN one, and many books honestly don't do that effectively! Plus since there are lots of grains and beans incorporated in the recipes, it is not very expensive.
At this point I consider myself to be eating a "high raw" diet because I try to incorporate as many raw foods into my meals as possible, especially breakfast and snacks. Right now, breakfast, snacks, and a portion of my lunch is raw. I also try to keep my salt/fat intake low, as this was an important component of the 80/10/10 principle, and something I believe in. (If you are just now tuning in --- this is a high carb, lower protein/fat dietary model). Here is an example of what I ate today:
Breakfast: Two bananas in carob sauce (carb powder, bananas, dates, water)
Snack: Soy latte from starbux (they use organic soy milk!) and an organic peach
Lunch: Vegan pizza (recipe to follow)
Snack: One banana in carob sauce
Dinner: Millet w/vegetables and steamed kale with sesame dressing
Snack: Peanut butter crisp
My dinner and desert BOTH came from the KIND DIET!!!!
Here is my recipe for vegan pizza:
Ingredients: Whole wheat tortilla, onion, garlic (1 small clove per pizza), cilantro, mushrooms, black olives, sundried tomatoes in olive oil, vegan mozzarella cheese, arugula lettuce - there are no exact amount because you can make your pizza as big as you want!
Preheat oven to 400 Degrees. Place tortilla(s) on a baking sheet. Layer with sundried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, sliced onion, chopped garlic, black olives. Shred vegan cheese - I recommend Follow your heart brand cheese - and sprinkle on top! Cook pizza for fifteen minutes. Top with fresh cilantro (the leaves off a few sprigs) and arugula. Eat up! So easy, fool proof and GOOD! Also, if you don't buy fresh herbs, it tastes really good with italian seasoning too.
I haven't talked a lot about my work out schedule as of late. I am still focusing a lot of energy on yoga. I take the classes at my gym three times a week. I really am seeing so much improvement in my flexibility and strength. Not to mention - just learning to breathe, relax and exist in the moment is so valuable to me. I feel like it is medicine for the soul. Anyways - I recommend it to everyone I know. I really think everybody would benefit. Other than that, I just jump on the stair climber once a week and attend a zumba class on Saturday. I haven't been doing a lot of weight lifting. Although we do quite a bit of body weight exercises in yoga class. I want to start doing lunges, squats, push ups, pull ups, and other body weight exercises on my own more. At a minimum I want to continue my yoga classes, two days of cardio and 1-2 days of body weight exercises.
Until we meet again friends - Peace and Love!
Since the last time I wrote, I have stopped pursuing the raw lifestyle. It was a difficult decision to make because I really really like the idea of it. However, I just couldn't make it stick. And frankly I felt a bit unbalanced! I certainly love all my fresh fruits and veggies --- but the amount of calories required to really thrive on a raw diet is just way more than I care to ever eat. At first I was cool with it, but then it totally turned into a JOB. LOL. I also realized I simply don't love fruit enough to eat it as a staple...PERIOD. Moving on.
I told you about the KIND DIET by Alicia Silverstone, and I have been cooking recipes from that book like a mad woman. I totally recommend this book to anyone interested in veganism (or just interested in incorporating some meat/dairy free recipes into their collection). Pretty much this book is helping me re-create my kitchen, my shopping lists, and everything. I don't know about you, but I am honestly not that creative, and I have my "go - to meals." This book can teach you how to turn your kitchen into a VEGAN one, and many books honestly don't do that effectively! Plus since there are lots of grains and beans incorporated in the recipes, it is not very expensive.
At this point I consider myself to be eating a "high raw" diet because I try to incorporate as many raw foods into my meals as possible, especially breakfast and snacks. Right now, breakfast, snacks, and a portion of my lunch is raw. I also try to keep my salt/fat intake low, as this was an important component of the 80/10/10 principle, and something I believe in. (If you are just now tuning in --- this is a high carb, lower protein/fat dietary model). Here is an example of what I ate today:
Breakfast: Two bananas in carob sauce (carb powder, bananas, dates, water)
Snack: Soy latte from starbux (they use organic soy milk!) and an organic peach
Lunch: Vegan pizza (recipe to follow)
Snack: One banana in carob sauce
Dinner: Millet w/vegetables and steamed kale with sesame dressing
Snack: Peanut butter crisp
My dinner and desert BOTH came from the KIND DIET!!!!
Here is my recipe for vegan pizza:
Ingredients: Whole wheat tortilla, onion, garlic (1 small clove per pizza), cilantro, mushrooms, black olives, sundried tomatoes in olive oil, vegan mozzarella cheese, arugula lettuce - there are no exact amount because you can make your pizza as big as you want!
Preheat oven to 400 Degrees. Place tortilla(s) on a baking sheet. Layer with sundried tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, sliced onion, chopped garlic, black olives. Shred vegan cheese - I recommend Follow your heart brand cheese - and sprinkle on top! Cook pizza for fifteen minutes. Top with fresh cilantro (the leaves off a few sprigs) and arugula. Eat up! So easy, fool proof and GOOD! Also, if you don't buy fresh herbs, it tastes really good with italian seasoning too.
I haven't talked a lot about my work out schedule as of late. I am still focusing a lot of energy on yoga. I take the classes at my gym three times a week. I really am seeing so much improvement in my flexibility and strength. Not to mention - just learning to breathe, relax and exist in the moment is so valuable to me. I feel like it is medicine for the soul. Anyways - I recommend it to everyone I know. I really think everybody would benefit. Other than that, I just jump on the stair climber once a week and attend a zumba class on Saturday. I haven't been doing a lot of weight lifting. Although we do quite a bit of body weight exercises in yoga class. I want to start doing lunges, squats, push ups, pull ups, and other body weight exercises on my own more. At a minimum I want to continue my yoga classes, two days of cardio and 1-2 days of body weight exercises.
Until we meet again friends - Peace and Love!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Raw versions of chocolate sauce and guac!
Hola veggies!
I am starting to think I should call this blog my fruity life --- because that is what I eat the most! Anyways, if you haven't figured it out already my 100% raw challenge went down the tubes! I have been kind with myself as of late. I am still sticking to it the best I can though!! We have been making lots of changes are the home --- and last week I had no kitchen sink to wash my food or appliances. I slipped a few times and ate some dairy during the week. No biggie, moving on!
I read a book called the Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone. I really liked it! It is of course about trying veganism. It gives you several different choices though, Flirt, Vegan or Superhero. I think it is wonderful that she gives you choices based on where you are in your veggie journal. I recommend it! The recipes are really yummy looking. (FYI: Superhero = the vegan diet plus principles of the macrobiotic diet - lots of whole grains, vegetables and the occasional sea vegetable to round it out). I tried this wonderful recipe with collards, and it had such a subtle sweet taste. No problem getting your greens in there! Check it out!
I tried two recipes for you! Both totally delectable! One is dessert - like but I totally ate it for breakfast!
Carob "chocolate" sauce
3 TB carob (or raw carob - which can be purchased online)
3 pitted dates
1/2 of a banana
Water as needed
Simply put all the ingredients in your blender - add enough water to give you the texture of chocolate sauce. I poured it over bananas. Talk about HEAVEN. Makes quite a bit of sauce. Enough to cover 7 bananas or so. Carob is good because it does not contain caffeine like cacao or raw cacao. Plus it is low in calories, fat free and low in sugar (1TB = 25 cals/0 fat/3 grams sugar).
Raw guacamole
1 avocado
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh cilantro
1-2 tsp lemon juice
This was amazing! Totally didn't think it would be that good - but it was. I ended up using about 10 cherry tomatoes and probably the leaves off ten sprigs of cilantro. I tossed everything into the food processor so it would be very smooth. At the first bite I longed for garlic or scallions, but on my raw diet those ingredients tend to be a bit much for me. (So feel free to toss a scallion in or a bit of fresh garlic if you just need to). I used organic romaine leaves as my "chip".
In case your curious, here is what I ate today:
Breakfast: Bananas in carob sauce
Lunch: Strawberry - date - banana smoothie
Snack: Apple
Dinner: Romaine dipped in raw guac and roasted red skin potatoes
2700 calories / 83% carbs / 5% protein (about 40 grams)/ 12% fat (about 37 grams)
I even made it to the gym. I did 25 minutes on the stair climber, hamstring curls, calf raises and squats. Finished off with a few sun salutations. I feel so good today. My body feels nourished, light and on a natural high. Anyways, it's about time for me to sleep! Until next time --- Peace and Love!
I am starting to think I should call this blog my fruity life --- because that is what I eat the most! Anyways, if you haven't figured it out already my 100% raw challenge went down the tubes! I have been kind with myself as of late. I am still sticking to it the best I can though!! We have been making lots of changes are the home --- and last week I had no kitchen sink to wash my food or appliances. I slipped a few times and ate some dairy during the week. No biggie, moving on!
I read a book called the Kind Diet by Alicia Silverstone. I really liked it! It is of course about trying veganism. It gives you several different choices though, Flirt, Vegan or Superhero. I think it is wonderful that she gives you choices based on where you are in your veggie journal. I recommend it! The recipes are really yummy looking. (FYI: Superhero = the vegan diet plus principles of the macrobiotic diet - lots of whole grains, vegetables and the occasional sea vegetable to round it out). I tried this wonderful recipe with collards, and it had such a subtle sweet taste. No problem getting your greens in there! Check it out!
I tried two recipes for you! Both totally delectable! One is dessert - like but I totally ate it for breakfast!
Carob "chocolate" sauce
3 TB carob (or raw carob - which can be purchased online)
3 pitted dates
1/2 of a banana
Water as needed
Simply put all the ingredients in your blender - add enough water to give you the texture of chocolate sauce. I poured it over bananas. Talk about HEAVEN. Makes quite a bit of sauce. Enough to cover 7 bananas or so. Carob is good because it does not contain caffeine like cacao or raw cacao. Plus it is low in calories, fat free and low in sugar (1TB = 25 cals/0 fat/3 grams sugar).
Raw guacamole
1 avocado
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh cilantro
1-2 tsp lemon juice
This was amazing! Totally didn't think it would be that good - but it was. I ended up using about 10 cherry tomatoes and probably the leaves off ten sprigs of cilantro. I tossed everything into the food processor so it would be very smooth. At the first bite I longed for garlic or scallions, but on my raw diet those ingredients tend to be a bit much for me. (So feel free to toss a scallion in or a bit of fresh garlic if you just need to). I used organic romaine leaves as my "chip".
In case your curious, here is what I ate today:
Breakfast: Bananas in carob sauce
Lunch: Strawberry - date - banana smoothie
Snack: Apple
Dinner: Romaine dipped in raw guac and roasted red skin potatoes
2700 calories / 83% carbs / 5% protein (about 40 grams)/ 12% fat (about 37 grams)
I even made it to the gym. I did 25 minutes on the stair climber, hamstring curls, calf raises and squats. Finished off with a few sun salutations. I feel so good today. My body feels nourished, light and on a natural high. Anyways, it's about time for me to sleep! Until next time --- Peace and Love!
Sunday, April 22, 2012
How to cope when your significant isn't vegan/vegetarian
HAPPY EARTH DAY!
I am so excited for myself. I am totally patting myself on the back. This week has been raw-some! I ate ALL vegan, and predominantly raw. Last weekend was awful, so I am happy to be back on track. Ultimately, I would be happy to be 100% vegan and continue raw eating everyday, except maybe two meals a week. I think that makes for a nice balance. I just love the way I feel now!!
I was inspired to write because tonight was the dreaded PIZZA NIGHT. Growing up we always had pizza on the weekend, and my whole family looooves it (including my extended fam LOL). I did a little research and figured out some vegan friendly options at local chains. If you are considering transitioning to veg...and you are going out to dinner...always figure out where you are headed and look up the restaurant online or call them. You can find out what options are available to you!
We always order from Papa Johns, and I am happy to report that their sauce and original crust are vegan. I do not think the thin crust is vegan (according to internet sources). Anyways, I ordered a small veggie pizza and added pineapple. At home, I sprinkled a little italian seasoning on it. Very satisfying! And you know what!? IT WORKED! Whatever comfy - feel good thoughts/memories I associate with pizza were totally satisfied. Even my husband was happy I would not be "left out." I don't care what anybody says --- many people associate foods with good vibes, which can make eating a new way kind of uncomfortable. But it is do -able. I would like to mention a chain called Mellow Mushroom is another great vegan pizza joint. SOOOOOOO GOOD. And they even carry vegan cheese!
I feel fortunate to be married to someone who is supportive of my decision to transition my diet (although he is not at the same place). Anyways, how do I cope with having a non - veg spouse?
1) Be nice! Although I feel passionate about eating a vegetable/fruit based diet, I don't guilt my husband for his dietary decisions. I simply highlight the reasons why I love to eat this way. I find focusing on the positives is a great way to get people to listen to you. Then they will not become defensive. Be respectful!
2) Don't put up with criticism! However, understand your loved one may be concerned about your health. Be prepared your loved one might be concerned about your nutritional status. Explain to him/her you DO get protein. That being said - make sure to do your research! Supplement your vitamin B12 and D! Quote: "I don't care as long as your not sitting up in the hospital with malnutrition."
3) Be prepared! If you all are going out to eat, or to a gathering make sure you are prepared. My husband reminds his parents I don't eat meat before we go over there --- that way there are no awkward moments. Just as I mentioned above, look up the restaurant first. My husband expects that when our waiter arrives to the table I have questions and specifications. If all else fails, eat before you go. You go out to eat to be with the people you love.
4) Offer him/her a vegetable based meal or side dish on a regular basis. Many people don't know what vegan/vegetarian options are available. Now my husband eats broccoli with his breakfast everyday! He no longer eats red meat in his spaghetti, he enjoys plain whole wheat noodles and sauce.
5) Be a shining example :-D You will have great energy, an awesome bod and health. Everybody is going to want to know your secret!
If anybody in your life is interested in vegetarianism/veganism ... I recommend the documentary Forks and Knives. It definitely highlights the positive aspects of the lifestyle in a non threatening way. If you want to scare them, show them Earthlings.
Peace and Love! Go recycle!
I am so excited for myself. I am totally patting myself on the back. This week has been raw-some! I ate ALL vegan, and predominantly raw. Last weekend was awful, so I am happy to be back on track. Ultimately, I would be happy to be 100% vegan and continue raw eating everyday, except maybe two meals a week. I think that makes for a nice balance. I just love the way I feel now!!
I was inspired to write because tonight was the dreaded PIZZA NIGHT. Growing up we always had pizza on the weekend, and my whole family looooves it (including my extended fam LOL). I did a little research and figured out some vegan friendly options at local chains. If you are considering transitioning to veg...and you are going out to dinner...always figure out where you are headed and look up the restaurant online or call them. You can find out what options are available to you!
We always order from Papa Johns, and I am happy to report that their sauce and original crust are vegan. I do not think the thin crust is vegan (according to internet sources). Anyways, I ordered a small veggie pizza and added pineapple. At home, I sprinkled a little italian seasoning on it. Very satisfying! And you know what!? IT WORKED! Whatever comfy - feel good thoughts/memories I associate with pizza were totally satisfied. Even my husband was happy I would not be "left out." I don't care what anybody says --- many people associate foods with good vibes, which can make eating a new way kind of uncomfortable. But it is do -able. I would like to mention a chain called Mellow Mushroom is another great vegan pizza joint. SOOOOOOO GOOD. And they even carry vegan cheese!
I feel fortunate to be married to someone who is supportive of my decision to transition my diet (although he is not at the same place). Anyways, how do I cope with having a non - veg spouse?
1) Be nice! Although I feel passionate about eating a vegetable/fruit based diet, I don't guilt my husband for his dietary decisions. I simply highlight the reasons why I love to eat this way. I find focusing on the positives is a great way to get people to listen to you. Then they will not become defensive. Be respectful!
2) Don't put up with criticism! However, understand your loved one may be concerned about your health. Be prepared your loved one might be concerned about your nutritional status. Explain to him/her you DO get protein. That being said - make sure to do your research! Supplement your vitamin B12 and D! Quote: "I don't care as long as your not sitting up in the hospital with malnutrition."
3) Be prepared! If you all are going out to eat, or to a gathering make sure you are prepared. My husband reminds his parents I don't eat meat before we go over there --- that way there are no awkward moments. Just as I mentioned above, look up the restaurant first. My husband expects that when our waiter arrives to the table I have questions and specifications. If all else fails, eat before you go. You go out to eat to be with the people you love.
4) Offer him/her a vegetable based meal or side dish on a regular basis. Many people don't know what vegan/vegetarian options are available. Now my husband eats broccoli with his breakfast everyday! He no longer eats red meat in his spaghetti, he enjoys plain whole wheat noodles and sauce.
5) Be a shining example :-D You will have great energy, an awesome bod and health. Everybody is going to want to know your secret!
If anybody in your life is interested in vegetarianism/veganism ... I recommend the documentary Forks and Knives. It definitely highlights the positive aspects of the lifestyle in a non threatening way. If you want to scare them, show them Earthlings.
Peace and Love! Go recycle!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Day 10
I really dig the new look of Google's Blogger! Just had to add that in!
Hola veggies!
Welcome to "day 10" of my so-called daily record of my raw experience. I think I am getting a little bit better at remembering to log on here. I hope someone is benefiting from this too. So yesterday I ate some cooked, but remained predominantly raw. I had banana smoothies in the day, but ran out of food and ordered beans n' rice vegan style from Chipotle. However, I noted the spices were a little bit much. I really think my taste buds are becoming more sensitive --- so the likelihood of me going back there soon is lower. I also enjoyed an hour of bellydance.
Today was cool! Here is what I ate:
7 banana smoothie (coconut and cinnamon)
Starbux run!!! Soy latte
7 banana - mango - spinach smoothie
Large salad with orange - sesame dressing (iceberg, cucumber, carrots, tomato)
Apple and 2 peaches for dessert!
Water - drank it - don't know how much!
Calories around 2000 probably.
I found a cool recipe for salad dressing in the "Easy to be Raw" book by Megan Elizabeth --- I mentioned previously in my blog. Check it out! The dressing had a little kick to it, and contained mustard seeds and sesame seeds. Definitely made dinner more interesting. My peaches are so delicious, and my apples are equally amazing. I bought them both organic, from Whole Foods. SO divine!
I didn't make it to the gym today. I wasted so much time searching for my lost key that I missed my yoga class.
Sleep last night was okay. 1030 - 445 and 600 - 840 I woke up frequently during the latter portion.
Everything is cool on the digestive front. Last time I popped on the scale I was 125 (from 130) last week which is likely because I have lowered my sodium intake by staying predominantly raw this week. My skin is still improving but not 100% clear. My energy level has been great. I feel peaceful and patient (which is important when you have a two year old).
I liked today's menu simply because I had variety. I recently finished off a 40 pound banana box! LOL. I only wasted two. Anyways, I just bought enough bananas to eat ten per day for the next three days. Tomorrow I will probably throw in some fresh pulpy orange juice too to get me over the mid day slump!
That's all I got for you now! Peace and Love
Hola veggies!
Welcome to "day 10" of my so-called daily record of my raw experience. I think I am getting a little bit better at remembering to log on here. I hope someone is benefiting from this too. So yesterday I ate some cooked, but remained predominantly raw. I had banana smoothies in the day, but ran out of food and ordered beans n' rice vegan style from Chipotle. However, I noted the spices were a little bit much. I really think my taste buds are becoming more sensitive --- so the likelihood of me going back there soon is lower. I also enjoyed an hour of bellydance.
Today was cool! Here is what I ate:
7 banana smoothie (coconut and cinnamon)
Starbux run!!! Soy latte
7 banana - mango - spinach smoothie
Large salad with orange - sesame dressing (iceberg, cucumber, carrots, tomato)
Apple and 2 peaches for dessert!
Water - drank it - don't know how much!
Calories around 2000 probably.
I found a cool recipe for salad dressing in the "Easy to be Raw" book by Megan Elizabeth --- I mentioned previously in my blog. Check it out! The dressing had a little kick to it, and contained mustard seeds and sesame seeds. Definitely made dinner more interesting. My peaches are so delicious, and my apples are equally amazing. I bought them both organic, from Whole Foods. SO divine!
I didn't make it to the gym today. I wasted so much time searching for my lost key that I missed my yoga class.
Sleep last night was okay. 1030 - 445 and 600 - 840 I woke up frequently during the latter portion.
Everything is cool on the digestive front. Last time I popped on the scale I was 125 (from 130) last week which is likely because I have lowered my sodium intake by staying predominantly raw this week. My skin is still improving but not 100% clear. My energy level has been great. I feel peaceful and patient (which is important when you have a two year old).
I liked today's menu simply because I had variety. I recently finished off a 40 pound banana box! LOL. I only wasted two. Anyways, I just bought enough bananas to eat ten per day for the next three days. Tomorrow I will probably throw in some fresh pulpy orange juice too to get me over the mid day slump!
That's all I got for you now! Peace and Love
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