Plant-Based Diets

Research shows that eating whole-food, plant-based foods leads to weight loss, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and prevention of type 2 diabetes… just to name a few benefits.

 What do we mean by whole-food plant-based foods? Think vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and whole grains. These foods are high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which play key roles in helping us loose weight and preventing disease.  Fiber has the amazing ability to bind to sugar and cholesterol in the gut, helping us eliminate them.  

 These whole, plant foods also contain phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are what give fruits and vegetables their brilliant colors, smells and tastes, which all have a wide array of health benefits.

 Moreover,  the World Health Organization and the United Nations have promoted diets higher in plant foods not only for the prevention of chronic disease and obesity but also for its positive impact on and sustainability for the environment.

 And while fad diets may come and go, we know that plants are never going out of fashion.

 If you are looking for plant-based inspiration, the following easy, plant-based meal recipe and the list of plant-based grocery staples that follows it will get you started!

Vegan Curry

 This recipe answers the question: “What’s for dinner?” when it seems like there’s nothing in the house. The sauce is simple and consists of fresh ginger, garlic, cumin, turmeric and coconut milk, all of which last forever in the pantry so it’s easy to throw together in a pinch. Also, this healthy curry sauce can be added to whatever vegetables you have in the kitchen. It is a hearty, warming dish that is deeply satisfying and features lots of fresh ginger and garlic, which are notorious for their immune-boosting properties. Leftovers (if you have any!) will be great the next day. Serve over brown rice or quinoa if desired.

-    4 tbsp fresh ginger

-    1 tbsp ground turmeric

-    3 tbsp fresh garlic

-    3 tsp ground cumin

-    2 cups coconut milk

-    vegetables of choice (consider using potatoes, carrots, onions, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, bell peppers, peas, hot chilis, or any combination)

-    oil of choice

 Chop desired vegetables into 1/2” chunks and sauté in heated oil at medium high heat. Add remaining ingredients, cover and allow to cook until vegetables are to desired doneness. Season with salt and pepper. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and chopped cilantro, if desired.