Emilee Prado
Between keto and paleo, it seems like a new diet takes over every few months. But despite all their benefits, the aforementioned eating strategies don’t go as far as the one rising the fastest: plant-based diets. A plant-based diet doesn’t require going full vegan like celebrities Ellen Degeneres and Joaquin Phoenix. It can be flexible and customizable. And before we dive in, know we aren’t saying this regime is right for everyone — consult with your doctor before making any new drastic health decisions.
Plant-Based Doesn’t Mean Vegan
Whether it’s eating plant-based certain nights of the week (looking at you Meatless Mondays) or cutting out certain animal products like milk or yogurt, it’s possible to eat plant-based without eliminating everything. Plant-based just means increasing those healthy fruits and vegetables into your diet. And you can do it by starting small, like forgoing regular butter for a vegan variety or adding almond milk into your coffee instead of creamer.
The Reason For The Rise
Documentaries such as “Gamechangers” on Netflix are helping people learn more about plant-based diets and the benefits. “Gamechangers,” which follows special forces trainer and UFC winner James Wilks as he tries to find the optimal diet, illustrates the benefits of a plant-based diet and features athletes such as Novak Djokovic and Chris Paul.
“Forks Over Knives,” another documentary about the regime, highlights how increasing your plant intake can help with chronic illnesses and heart disease. Along with the filmed information, both of these documentaries feature recipes and tips for eating plant-based on their websites.
Plant-Based Power
Controlling cholesterol levels is chief among the health benefits of plant-based diets. Other benefits include managing diabetes, facilitating weight loss and lowering the risk of developing certain cancers, according to the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. “Cholesterol, cholesterol, cholesterol,” Ingrid Fioroni, the founder and CEO of The Nutrition Chef, a custom meal delivery service that serves the DFW area, says about the benefits. “We’re starting to definitely see the rise [of plant-based diets.]”
Plant-Based Options
Local eateries are stepping up and providing plant-based options for those interested in trying it out. Rush Bowls in Keller features fruit and vegetables throughout its vibrant menu.
“Rush Bowls offers nutrition in a bowl,” Keller Rush Bowls owner Mike Fuchs says. “We focus on all-natural fruits and vegetables and offer a plant-based meal that is highly [nutritious] and tastes great! Healthy doesn’t have to skimp on flavor.”
Coolgreens, which won Top New Restaurant, Top Salad and Top Vegetarian Food in Southlake Style’s Reader’s Choice, is another accessible option for those wanting to dip their toes into plant-based eating. Owner Shanna Argote says she is a supporter of plant-based diets’ benefits.
“I really believe that when we eat real food, healthy food and plant-based food, we are going to make our bodies healthier no matter what,” she says.