June 18, 2014
So it is my third week of the Vegan challenge. I am holding steady with my approach, which is predominately Vegan, but I allow myself one “cheat” meal on the weekend. This meal is only a “cheat” from the standpoint that I enjoy some seafood.
I still have not had any red or white meat, other than fish.
Nava Director of Nutrition, Ana Goldseker always stresses how important it is to make slow changes in your diet. She does not believe in forcing healthy habits or dietary changes because it can feel more like a punishment.
Ana’s philosophy is to make gradual changes and, as you experience the benefits of those changes, you incorporate more changes, so that the entire process is a positive one.
I like that approach!
I decided that going full tilt Vegan was not working for me. Allowing myself a one meal a week of fish/shellfish helps me to make this a quality learning experience, rather than a punishment. Ana was very nice about my need to have some fish, so I am going easy on myself too.
There is a week and half remaining for month one of the “Summer of Wellness Challenge” and I think overall the Vegan diet has been a great tool.
My family and I have definitely tried some new veggie dishes that will remain in our meal repertoire. I have grown accustomed to not having meat in my meals and plan to continue that post challenge as well.
I will add, that I really think my skin looks better too…
My goal is to continue to eat meatless dishes at least 4 nights a week at home.
Next week we will be ramping up for our July challenge, “Adopt 2 Healthy Habits.”
We will be taking notes from Nava Medical Director, Dr. Douglas Lord, who is our inspiration! This is a man who practices what he preaches, and boy does it show!
What have you gained or learned through this challenge?