There is absolutely no question that a plant-based diet and lifestyle has captured the minds and hearts of people everywhere. Whether it's for health reasons, for ethical reasons, or just a change from the ordinary, adopting a plant-based lifestyle is certainly a popular trend right now. But for those who truly see the amazing benefits it is definitely not just a trend. They recognize the tremendous impact it can have on one not just physically but mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. Because of this many have made the decision to embark on the journey; they are in it for the long haul! Perhaps you also have made a conscientious decision to do the same. But are you ready? What does going plant-based really mean? In essence a plant-based diet involves centering your meal choices around plants, plant centric as it were. What do we mean by plants? That would include vegetables, fruits, legumes (i.e. lentils, beans, chickpeas, peas), tubers (i.e. potatoes, yams), root vegetables (i.e. carrots, beets), nuts, and seeds. Particularly, you should strive to have at least half your plate consist of vegetables especially green veggies like kale, collards. or broccoli. Now here at PREAM Nutrition, we emphasize a no meat, no eggs, no dairy diet. In other words, nothing with a mother as Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn would say. Because of this some would label that veganism and it's true sometimes the terms could be interchangeable. We will address that in a later blog, but suffice to say a plant-based diet may allow for meat, processed foods, fried foods , etc... However, if your goal is optimal health as you travel on this journey, you will definitely want to consider avoiding meat altogether as well as processed foods, and what some would term vegan junk foods (do you hear me Doritos and Oreo cookies?) Other obvious factors in this journey are your goals. Are you trying to lose weight? Do you want to prevent or perhaps reverse certain health conditions? Is your aim to lower your carbon footprint? Whatever your goals are, they should be clearly stated so you can keep them in focus as you pursue this plant-based adventure. Having support along the way is paramount to success as well and PREAM Nutrition is here to travel with you, support you, and guide you along the way! So are you ready for this plant-based journey? Take it one step at a time, one day at a time, brace yourself for the inevitable challenges along the way, and you can be sure of reaching your destination and finding success!