Plant-based things I have noticed...

Embracing a plant-based lifestyle has change me and my life in many ways - some I can't seem to put into words. I am a new person and I like the new me. 

For the changes I can tell you about, I have compiled a little list...

Skin: Not to mention becoming a lot softer, noticeably more hydrated (without using moisturizer), I don't have constant mild acne which I have had for most of my life. 

Hair growth: About four months postpartum, I lost a lot of the hair at the front of my scalp - I'm talking bald spots. Its now grown back in the last 2 months and as for the rest of my hair, its literally growing like a weed. Bangs growing out the front - which I don't love because they look awkward - but Ill take it!

Bloating: Huge improvement here - I know the ladies feel me on this one. The increase in veggies and legumes can make one a bit gassy at times but I never have that end of the day, heavy, balloon gut look. 

Regularity and Guy Health: Live longer with a healthy gut. Most people don't get enough fibre in their diet and this is where a plant-based diet greatly improves your overall health. The gut is where the majority of nutrient absorption and a lot of toxin elimination takes place. In other words, a high fibre diet improves your ability to reap the benefits from the foods you eat, while elimination the substances you don't need; regularity = improved! Moving on...

Feeling light and happy: My overall general mood is better - not that I am known to be a crabby person by trade, but we all get the blues or irritated at random times during the day and that feeling doesn't knock at my door nearly as often. I don't sweat the small stuff, I feel bouncy and motivated! 

Energy: No more early, afternoon day-dreaming about my pillow and cozy bed for this girl. The post-lunch crash is nonexistent - eating my yummy plants for power gives me energy like coffee does, which is what your food is supposed to do. 

Strength and Recovery: I can go heavier at the gym and longer without stimulants like I have used in the past (caffein, ephedrine, pre-workout powders, energy drinks, fat burners). Hardy, plant-based pre-workout FOOD, some cold water and I am in beast mode. Leaving the gym I am pumped for tomorrow's workout and ready to go the next day - my recovery time is outstanding. 

Lean and Fit: As I mentioned in a previous blog, I have never been able to stay so lean while eating so much food. My diets of the past were comprised of low carb, high protein, calorie deficits and stimulants. My current regime is the opposite and I lost the last 10 pounds of stubborn baby weight in 1 month after making the switch. Allan, my hubby, lost 20 pounds in 3 weeks - not changing a thing in his workout routine. He has more energy and feels better than ever! #plantpower

Optimism: I am so motivated to make changes for my family and for the world. I finally, after 31 years, know that one person CAN make a change. I believe in this way of life for the benefits it has on health, the environment and putting stop to the animals who are being exploited everyday. I feel so strongly that the world is going to have to change and my family and I will be a part of this plant-based movement. 

Sense of Community: Since transitioning to plant-based, I have met and have had people reach out to me - friends, family, strangers, people on the other side of the world wanting to know about this lifestyle. One thing all these amazing social interactions have in common - people coming together, to motivate each other for the greater good. That is what plant-based life is all about. 

Eagerness to Learn: I want to know everything! Where does food really come from? Who is involved? What do the crazy scientific terms mean? What does the label mean? What is this food doing to help my body when I eat it? What is it doing to harm it? What food should I eat? The more I learn, the more I want to know. Plant-based living has turned on my brain! 

Culinary Creativity: I have always enjoyed cooking but my new passion for food has brought it to life, colour, art on a plate. I want to create meals not just cook food. I want it to look, taste and smell as beautiful as is it healthy. We now call the kitchen the laboratory - which I love! My kitchen is where I get to experiment and let my imagination run wild. Thank you plants!

Wholesomeness: I have many more feel-good moments during each day. I think because I have always felt ashamed for eating meat and products that cause the suffering for other beings. I have never been able to feel truly happy about my way of life knowing I was supporting cruelty. There is no better feeling for me than knowing I am taking care of my family. Now,  I am keeping them healthy, happy and nourished by practising a wholesome way of life that we can be proud of. 

***Powered by Plants sweater from Wholesome Culture, a clothing line dedicated to making a difference in the world. -Check them out online and on Instagram. 💕🌱