NUTRITION IS THE KEY TO HEALTH

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Tag: plant-based diet

Struggling with My Diet

April 2, 2024 /

Nutrition is the Key to Health Podcast

It is April now, and I have been on my whole food plant-based diet for a about four months now. I did have some meals that I flexed out, but it has remained about 96% plant-based. My weight has recently plateaued with a 36 pound weight loss, and I am struggling to move the needle.

Don’t get me wrong, I am very excited that I have lost the weight I have, but I am struggling with my “personality tendancies”. I have a tendancy of “rise and repeat”, so I am not varying my diet as much as I should be.

I do not know a lot of recipes for plant-based dinners that are quick and easy. I have cookbooks and the recipes are only a search away, but I tend to run out of steam in the very early evening. Most of that is contributed to my pain in my feet, hip and back. What is that from? I think it is a result from years of inflammation that has resulted into several chronic diagnoses.

What have I been eating? Well, for Breakfast, I have oatmeal with blueberries, strawberries, flax and cinnamon. Lunch can be a salad or protein shake, with a EarthChip Organic Vegan Protein, banana, greens, applesauce and plant-based milk. Dinner is generally a pot of homemade soup or chili with with plenty of beans and veggies, or if I am in a pinch, I make a quick bean burger, loaded with Dijon Mustard and veggies. My snacks can be hummus and chips, or hotsauce and chips. I have stopped alcohol now about 7 months now, and to tell you the truth, I miss the habit of the wine and cheese while I was cooking dinner, but I don’t miss the increased blood pressure or the poor sleep that always followed.

I have ordered some Anthony’s Textured Vegetable Protein, which is gluten free, and non-gmo. I have also ordered some Butler Soy Curls. I hope both of these will give me some new options to increase my protein intake and give me some quick and easy meal ideas like tacos and burritos, with veggies, and hotsauce. I think the soy curls might be excellent for my own fajitas, with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, squash, and hotsauce.

One pot dinners are really my goto now. I eat to fuel my body and not feed my face. I do not need a full three course meal. The one struggle I am really having a difficult time with is yogurt. I love yogurt each night as a sweet snack with granola or fruit. I try not to eat too much fruit at night though. I have noticed that it increases the pain of my inflammation the following day.

This week I have increased my walking to at least 30 minutes a day if it is not storming. This is spring and I am in Texas. I have gotten some cabbage, both green and purple, and I am going to nail down a recipe to substitute for my chicken salad. That is always a quick and easy sandwich if I am ever caught at night, either not feeling well or simply too tired to cook. Also, I need to prep salads and have them ready to go in containers so I can pull, dump and add dressing, and I have a healthy meal. Things like this will ensure, you do not hit the local drive-thru or order a pizza.

I do need to find some recipes for soy blocks. One that I can crumble into a stir-fry or scramble. Theses will add good options as well. I have not gotten into the soy meats yet. I drink a ton of soy milk, but not meat as of yet.

I have some vegan cookbooks, but I will say that the meals are more complex than I would like. I also have Plant-Based on a Budget Quick & Easy, by Toni Okamoto along with her other book, Plant-Based on a Budget. She has some good idea recipes, but in my opinion, she uses too much oil in all her recipes. So, I constantly have to substitute vegetable broth, apple sauce or other things . The jury is still out on the healthy benefits for someone that has to stay away from nuts and oils. She uses a great many of both in her recipes.

My advice to you, is to think about your favorite meals you loved and consumed prior to your diet restrictions. Now, try and nail down a recipe that tastes exactly like it. Get creative and think outside your box. I didn’t think this was possible until one day. I made a recipe of a cold slaw salad and when I closed my eyes, it tasted exactly like my southern potato salad recipe I used to make to accompany my sloppy joes and barbecue ribs. This is a win/win. Anytime I can incorporate cruciferous veggies into my diet, is a good thing being a cancer survivor.

As I told you before, change will not come overnight, and I am your living proof. You must grow your own recipe book with things you like. I tried keeping all the recipes in all the books and marking the pages, but I could never find the recipe I was looking for, when I needed it.

I hope this helps and gives you some encouragement to move forward in your journey to a healthier life. Only you can do this, it is not going to be done for you. But, I can tell you, the benefits far outweigh the effort!

Alicia

Disclaimer

The following above article may contain affiliate partner links.  I could earn a small commission, at no cost to you, for any qualifying purchases.  

This blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only.  The information contained within this blog is not intended to diagnose or cure any medical condition.  I am not a physician, licensed dietician or physical therapist.  

This blog is the result of my personal experiences and what I chose to do for a healthier lifestyle.  As always, before you begin a diet, exercise program or add supplements, please consult your healthcare professional.

Navigating Stress: How Your Plant-Based Diet Might Suffer

March 14, 2024 /

Nutrition is the Key to Health Podcast

Hey there, fellow plant-based friends! Today, let’s dive deep into something that doesn’t get talked about enough in our community, or any community really: stress. That’s right. Stress doesn’t just mess with your mind; it can mess with your diet too. So, grab a cup of herbal tea, and let’s unpack how stress can throw a curveball at your plant-based lifestyle.

Picture this: You’re cruising through life, proud as a peacock of your vibrant new diet, and are proud of the weight you have lost. But suddenly, stress comes knocking at your door like an uninvited guest. Whether it’s a job loss, family drama, or just the chaos of everyday life, stress can sneak up on you when you least expect it. And when it does, your diet might take a hit.

Let’s break it down.

  1. Emotional Eating Escapades: When stress hits, your emotions can go haywire. Suddenly, that tub of ice cream in the freezer starts whispering sweet nothings to you. Emotional eating is real, folks, and it doesn’t discriminate based on dietary preferences. So, instead of reaching for those comforting treats, try to find healthier ways to cope with stress. Take a walk in nature, meditate, or call up a friend for a good old-fashioned vent session.
  2. Convenience over Compassion: Stress can turn even the most dedicated dieters into lazy cooks. When you’re overwhelmed, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen preparing elaborate meals. And that’s where convenience foods sneak their way into your shopping cart. Sure, that frozen pizza might seem like a lifesaver at that moment, but relying too heavily on processed foods can leave your diet lacking in essential nutrients. So, try to strike a balance between convenience and compassion by opting for quick and easy whole-food meals whenever possible.
  3. Budget Blues: Let’s face it: With current inflation, food isn’t always cheap. Not just healthy food but anything you buy nowadays. Have you seen the price of Diet Coke or a bag of your favorite chips? How about eggs and vegetables? And when money gets tight, stress levels can skyrocket. Suddenly, you find yourself pinching pennies and cutting corners wherever you can. But unfortunately, that often means skimping on quality foods in favor of cheaper alternatives. While it’s totally understandable to be mindful of your budget, try to prioritize nutrient-dense foods like legumes, grains, and fresh fruits and veggies. Your body will thank you for it in the long run.
  4. Social Struggles: Being a lone plant-based eater in a sea of carnivores can be tough on a good day. But throw stress into the mix, and suddenly social situations become a minefield of temptation and frustration. Whether it’s navigating family gatherings or dining out with friends, stress can make sticking to your vegan guns feel like an uphill battle. But fear not, my plant-powered friends! With a little bit of planning and a whole lot of confidence, you can weather any social storm that comes your way. Who knows? You might even inspire a few meat-eaters to give veganism a try!
  5. Mindful Munching Goes MIA: One of the cornerstones of a healthy diet is mindfulness. Paying attention to what you eat and how it makes you feel can help you make informed choices that support your overall well-being. But when stress rears its ugly head, mindfulness often goes out the window. Suddenly, you find yourself mindlessly munching on whatever happens to be within arm’s reach, without giving a second thought to how it affects your body. So, the next time you feel stress creeping in, take a deep breath and remind yourself to slow down and savor each bite.

Stress and diets might seem like unlikely bedfellows, but the truth is, they’re more connected than you might think. By being aware of how stress can impact your diet and taking proactive steps to mitigate its effects, you can stay true to your plant-based principles even in the face of life’s many challenges. So, the next time stress comes knocking, remember: You’ve got the power to nourish your body and soul with compassion, no matter what life throws your way.

How to recognize stress eating-

If you look deep into when and why you stress eat, I think you will find some common themes:

Financial Stress: This is one of the most difficult stressors to combat. You are in a state of fight or flight 24/7 wondering how you are going to keep the lights on or pay the mortgage. Your job hunt seems to be going nowhere in today’s current market. Every time you reach for your phone or turn the news on, you hear how another five companies just announced layoffs. The three hundred resumes that you submitted haven’t generated but a handful of callbacks, and somehow, they chose to go with another candidate that fits their needs.

Medical Stress: Maybe one of your family members is going through a medical diagnosis and you are wondering where you will find the money to help them. Worse yet, that family member is you, and you are wondering how you will navigate this rabbit hole with a favorable outcome.

Relationship Stress: Is your relationship suffering? Maybe you are married and you and your spouse have taken a break. Or, maybe you are single and your relationship is going nowhere. You think maybe it is because you have lost yet another job, and now your confidence has been stripped. Now, when you are in interviews you bring in the lens through which you view yourself and that is, “the imposter syndrome”. Know matter how many self-help podcasts you consume, you cannot seem to shake it.

Boredom Stress: You have no money to go do anything. Your friends and family have stopped calling. Your family thinks you will ask them for money, so it’s crickets. Your friends think you just aren’t fun to be around and the invites have stopped. So, you are alone with your thoughts and the TV. That half-gallon of ice cream or bag of chips is calling your name. You try to fight back the urge, but it always wins. Why?

No one form of stress is worse than the other. Maybe if you got news of a terminal illness for yourself or a loved one. I think that tops all stressors on the immediate side, but financial stress is very long-term. The one thing you do know is that you keep reverting to your old ways of eating and you feel like crap. All the gains you made, are quickly going out the window. The weight comes back, so do the headaches and you have a feeling of malaise.

Ways to calm your mind

  1. Deep breathing exercises
  2. Journaling and getting all your venting/concerns out in a safe space
  3. Read a book
  4. Go for a walk
  5. Spend some time with your children or pets
  6. Color (the adult version with pencils)
  7. Draw or paint
  8. Other hobbies as well

All of these things can help get your mind off your situation. Just know that their are others out there. Maybe you can find a supportive FaceBook group. Just get out of your old routines. Routines can be our Achilles heel! When stess hits, we tend to slide back into our routines before our health journey began. Fight this urge!

Need a journal? You can find beautiful journals in my Etsy Store:

https://thefeatheredowlco.etsy.com

Thank you for all your support!

Alicia

Sixty days into my new plant-based diet

February 5, 2024 /

Nutrition is the Key to Health Podcast

For those who are just landing on this post and don’t know my backstory, for the new year, I started a new plant-based diet. I was sick and tired of added medications and new diagnoses. I decided to undertake a Whole Food Plant-Based (Vegan) lifestyle change, to see if I could turn this train around. On this website, you will see “plant-based” and “vegan”, used interchangeably, even though there are differences.

Where I began

I am one of those people, that when I make up my mind to do something, it is at that moment, that I go all in. I don’t need to wait for a Monday to roll around, or the first of the month to start a diet. I figure, why prolong your efforts? Just do it! I have started many diet changes on Friday nights.

During my journey, just when I was getting into a grove of my new plant-based lifestyle, I walked into the kitchen one morning to a puddle of water on the floor. My refrigerator had completely gone out, rendering everything in it and the freezer, not fit to eat. I had to toss everything, including all my fruits and veggies.

I began my hunt for a new refrigerator, which was no easy feat. I made the purchase but had to wait a week for delivery. Then, there were another two days to get it up and running and cooled to the proper temp for food. This was a huge setback for my already achieved gains. 

I reverted to eating the SAD diet again of meat, dairy, processed junk foods, and diet cokes. Drive-throughs saw me every day. I had no way to store fresh vegetables or other healthy items until the new unit arrived. This proved to be costly in so many ways, both to the progress I had gained and my pocketbook. My weight quickly returned to its top figure, and my blood work values increased back to dangerous levels.

I am using my lab results from late November and comparing them to my early February 2024 results. 

The following were milestones and are very encouraging for roughly 8 weeks of a 90/10 percent WFPB ratio diet (and the 9 days of being forced back into the SAD diet). Keep in mind that I still had cheat items such as cheese and half and half creamer I was attempting to overcome.

My results after just 60 days

  • I lost 30 pounds (without exercise) at the time of this posting.
  • Cholesterol – decreased by 66 points.
  • Triglycerides – decreased by 20 points.
  • LDL – decreased by 4 points.
  • LDL Calc Chol – decreased by 27 points.
  • Vitamin B-12 increased by 241 points.
  • Vitamin D – increased by 2 points.
  • Iron – no change
  • My blood pressure decreased from an average of 155/90 to 145/85.
  • My inflammation markers decreased significantly.

Who wouldn’t kill for these types of reductions? In less than 60 days, and without any pills, I saw this much benefit, and all because I stopped the meat, dairy, and processed foods. I know people that have been on several drugs, that haven’t seen this kind of progress. They also have far more potentially dangerous side effects from the drugs, than the benefits they are receiving. I didn’t want that to be me.

Concerns when starting a plant-based diet

Let’s sum up all the concerns that I, like most others, have when contemplating going on a vegan or plant-based diet.  You have to know that I was not your average bear.  I was facing some extremely difficult confirmed vitamin deficiencies that only got worse due to the chemo.  So to say I was reluctant was an understatement.  Here are just a few of my concerns:

  • I will not get enough protein  I have issues with muscle wasting due to an autoimmune diagnosis.  This was huge for me.  My creatinine did decrease slightly so I am going to implement protein powders, tofu, and other things to increase protein intake.
  • I will not get enough Vitamin B-12 (I have been on shots every week for most of my adult life.  Eating a plant-based diet increased my B-12 by 241 points. During this time, I lowered my supplement intake of B-12 by 30,000 mg a week.  Mind-blowing.
  • I will not get enough Vitamin D  I lowered my supplement intake by 30,000 UI a week and it still had a small gain. Another known diagnosed deficiency I was concerned about.
  • I will not get enough iron This was critical to me.  I have iron deficiency anemia and since the chemo, I developed CIA (Chemo Induced Anemia) where I had to undergo IV Iron Therapy.  My iron and RBC values remained the same and slightly improved on the plant-based diet.  Also mind-blowing.

There are a few things that I learned from my results. I will have to pivot in the upcoming months in the area of increasing my protein. I knew my rapid weight loss was most likely a loss of muscle mass because I was not exercising. I haven’t tried tofu yet, so my protein has been mainly beans, lentils, potatoes, and soy milk. I have to begin supplementing with vegan protein powder, tofu, and other products. 

I also must start building my recipes in Cronometer for an accurate calculation of all the macro and micronutrients. Tracking my eating up to dinner is a breeze.  However, I, make a lot of soups.  This just simply takes time and effort on my part. I do not cook by a recipe but by a canvas.  For those that know, you know.  No two soups are the same.  What I am craving, time constraints, and using up the veggies in the frig that are nearing expiration, all play a role in what goes in.  So, calculations on this can be difficult, but I will try and figure this out. 

How did I do it?

The changes that I made were common sense changes and some very specific changes to correct my microbiome. 

  • No meat.
  • No dairy.
  • No fish.
  • No alcohol
  • No soda
  • No granulated sugar. I subbed Allulose in coffee, and dates, and maple syrup in recipes.
  • Plant-based milks of soy and almond were subbed for dairy.
  • The goal was to eat one salad a day. (sometimes I didn’t make this).
  • I stopped using all the cashews and nuts that the YouTube recipes suggested and subbed cannelloni beans instead. It sounds bad but it works wonderfully, especially in dressings and sauces.  This was a tip I picked up from Nutmegnotebook.com  Thank you, Tami!
  • I tried to zone each meal/snack and consume protein 
  • Ate as much as I wanted on the salads and soups.
  • Ate organic sprouted oats 5 times a week for breakfast, loaded with berries, bananas, and flax, along with nutritional yeast.
  • Began eating starch with each meal in the forms of pasta, potatoes, and rice.
  • Cut out nut butter for now.
  • Stopped flossing, and got a personal WaterPik.
  • Only use distilled water to brush my teeth, and to rinse my mouth.
  • Stopped using fluoride toothpaste and began using  Boka Nano-Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste.
  • Diligent about the water that when into my mouth and stomach. The goal was to reduce/eliminate fluoride.
  • Began tongue scrapping morning and night.
  • Oil pulling one to two times per week with organic cold-pressed coconut oil.

Final thoughts

I am remaining on a plant-based diet. These gains (along with similar past gains) have convinced me a plant-based diet is more beneficial to my health, and that eating meat and dairy is detrimental. 

Each time I ate plant-based, I attempted to disprove this theory.  I didn’t want to believe I could get complete nutritional values from plants.  However, each time, my bloodwork proved me wrong and showed me that I gained more iron, and RBC values on a plant-based diet, along with reductions in cholesterol and triglycerides. My inflammation markers decreased and I had more energy. I am now a true believer. The lab numbers just don’t lie every time.

As I move forward, I am going to pivot with a few key changes. That is what you do. You get benchmark values, follow a lifestyle change, and then check those values again to see if you are moving in the right direction. If not, assess and pivot.

I am still in the baby phase of learning this way of eating, but I know it is far healthier than any animal, fish, or the products they produce.

What’s your new journey? No time let the present.

Alicia

*As an Affiliate Partner, I could earn a small commission at no cost to you, if you purchase any qualifying purchases.

This blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only.  The information contained within this blog is not intended to diagnose or cure any medical condition.  I am not a physician, licensed dietician, or physical therapist.  This blog is the result of my personal experiences and what I chose to do for a healthier lifestyle.  As always, before you begin a diet, exercise program or add supplements, please consult your healthcare professional.

Essential Small Appliances You Can’t Live Without: 

February 5, 2024 /

Nutrition is the Key to Health Podcast

Welcome to the exciting world of plant-based eating! Whether you’re taking the plunge into veganism or just exploring a plant-based lifestyle, navigating the ins and outs of this culinary journey can be both rewarding and challenging at times. Fortunately, with the right small kitchen appliances, your vegan transition can be a breeze. Let’s dive into the world of blenders, air fryers, and more, to make your plant-based adventure delicious, convenient, and fast.

Most of you probably already have a few of these beauties sitting in your kitchen.  This is a list of beginning basics that are sure to make your life easier when developing a healthier lifestyle. 

Depending on your budget, just get these as soon as you are able.  In my opinion, the most critical for someone just starting will be the high-speed blender, so I would start there.  I have tried to vet and select brands I use and know, and products that fall in all ranges of budgets.

High-Speed Blenders: The Ultimate Smoothie and Sauce Maker

A high-speed blender is probably your most important purchase.  You cannot do much without one.  Embarking on a vegan journey often means embracing the world of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds in abundance. A high-quality blender becomes your go-to sidekick for crafting nutrient-packed smoothies, creamy sauces, and mouthwatering dressings. 

Let’s face it, not everyone can afford a Vitamix.  I have a Ninja 1400-watt.  Does it do everything a Vitamix is shown to do?  No, but it didn’t set me back 400+ dollars either.  The big difference I see is when you are making sauces, the Ninja is good, but the Vitamix takes it to the next level with the creaminess of the sauces and soups.  The Vitamix can be purchased in a “reconditioned” or used version as well.  This will save on the wallet and still comes with a healthy warranty.  As for me, a Vitamix will be on my wish list for the future, so I will include it here because we are all in different financial places in life, and it is the gold standard that all other blenders try to replicate.

Recommended Blenders:

Digital Food Scale: Quick and Accurate Measurements

A food scale will be a must in the first months of your journey.  Your weight loss can stall, and frustration will abound.  Having a digital food scale with a tare button makes your recipes and logging all food in your food journal or app a snap and very accurate.  No more guessing and trying to measure to get your conversions. 

Pairing this with a food tracking app like the Cronometer or MyPlate will surprise you at just how much work you have to go on constructing healthier plate-based meals, that are low in fat and high in nutrients.  When you see your macro and micro breakdowns, your mouth can drop, so get ready.

Recommended Digital Food Scales:

Air Fryers for Crispy and Healthy Vegan Delights

Craving that crispy texture without drowning your food in oil? Enter the air fryer, a revolutionary appliance for guilt-free indulgence. From crispy sweet potato fries to golden cauliflower wings, or tofu breaded nuggets, the possibilities are endless. I love whipping up a batch of air-fried fries for my black bean hamburger.  You are not going to miss a drive-thru again.

Recommended Air Fryers:

Personal Blenders: On-the-Go Vegan Fuel

For those with a busy lifestyle, personal blenders are a game-changer. Easily whip up a nutrient-packed smoothie and take it with you on the go. Whether it’s a pre-workout energizer or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, personal blenders make maintaining a vegan lifestyle on a hectic schedule a breeze.  I will also go to my NutriBullet for quick sauces and dressings.  If I am doing a small batch, it makes cleanup a breeze.

A few years back, I tried the Magic Bullet Blender and on my first attempt at a smoothie, it leaked.  I checked all the seals and retired, and it leaked again.  I returned the Magic Bullet and replaced it with a NutriBullet and it’s been going strong ever since.  I know the Magic Bullet is popular on YouTube channels, so maybe the issue has been fixed, so I will include it in my list.

Recommended Personal Blenders:

Countertop Water Filtration Pitchers: A Must-Have For Tap Water

For those who are trying to address their water needs and are just tired of buying bottled water, you will find personal water filtration systems a must-have.  I have the Zero Water Filtration Pitcher.  I always keep extra filters on hand for a quick swap.  This unit comes with a TDS (water quality tester) and will tell you the quality of your water.  Depending on your needs and desired outcomes, you will need to further research the scientific findings of each brand and specifics for your dietary restrictions like fluoride. 

I know that the Berkey has come under fire this past year for not being NSF certified, and their water quality outcomes being questioned regarding false claims of lasting 6000 gallons and water quality.  So, for these reasons, I will not be recommending the Berkey for my top picks. I also know that this unit is showcased on many of the YouTube channels from the plant-based gurus. There is a less expensive option that is better. It is the ProOne Water Filtration System. It comes in various sizes and filter sizes. 

I continue to purchase bottled water.  I have for years due to my municipal quality being questionable.  A whole house filtration system is on the wish list, but for now, the ProOne Water Filtration System is my goal.  It removes over 200+ contaminants including algae, viruses, medications, and harmful chemicals like fluoride and lead. It is cheaper than the Berkey and is NSF Certified. It also has verified independent third-party testing for accuracy. One filter lasts for 1100 gallons. You can use pond water and place it in the unit, and you will get clear drinking water after filtration. 

You can place multiple filters within the standing units, which will speed up your filtration time. If you use one filter, you will get 1100 gallons, 2200 gallons for two, and so on. It also removes harmful fluorides, whereas the Zero only removes approximately 40%. The filters are a bit more than the Zero, but they last so much longer and remove more contaminants. I think that is one of only two drawbacks I have for the Zero. The filters do not last long at all (for my usage) and they are showing over 7 ppm TDS, which calls for replacement. However, if it is all you can afford, then you start with the Zero. It is all about progress, not perfection.

Also, for all of those who have lost all trust in Berkey, keep your stainless steel units and replace their filters with ProOne Filters. They are cheaper, tested, and verified. They are certified by the NSF and do not need priming. They are a direct one-for-one swap and don’t have the stripping issues the Berkey’s have.

If you have any specific questions, please contact the manufacturer of the product.  

I have begun adding the Trace Minerals to each 16.9 fl. oz bottle of water I drink.  I noticed that since I began drinking bottled water, my chloride levels in my blood test were always low, and the drops have corrected that issue since they are full spectrum drops.  Please consult a healthcare professional before taking an additive or supplement.

Recommended Water Filters:

Instant Pot Magic: Quick and Flavorful Vegan Meals

For busy individuals, an Instant Pot is a kitchen superhero. This multipurpose appliance simplifies the cooking process, making it a must-have for time-conscious vegans. I remember the first time I made a hearty lentil soup in my Instant Pot – the flavors were incredible, and it took a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking.

Recommended Instant Pots:

Slow Cooker: Effortless Meals in 6 to 8 Hours

For those with a busy lifestyle, slow cookers can be a go-to.  They are a set-it-and-forget-it small appliance. Easily make a meal and let it do its thing.  It allows you to cook overnight, go to work or simply run errands.  Come home and you have a healthy delicious meal waiting for you and your family.  Slow cookers have been around for decades, but they still hold a special place in many kitchens.  

Recommended Slow Cookers:

As you navigate your vegan journey, remember that small kitchen appliances are your allies in creating delicious, plant-based meals. From smoothies to homemade snacks and quick meals, these tools can make the transition enjoyable and convenient. Embrace the creativity they offer, and soon you’ll find that being vegan is not just a diet; it’s a flavorful adventure that’s good for you and the planet. Here’s to your vibrant and thriving plant-based lifestyle!

There are so many other gadgets for the kitchen that I could list, but I promised that these would be essential small appliances.  So, I remain on that premise to assist someone who might be starting a plant-based lifestyle and needs a little guidance.  I know these were all game-changers for me and my journey.

Disclaimer

The following article contains affiliate partner links.  I could earn a small commission, at no cost to you, for any qualifying purchases.  

This blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only.  The information contained within this blog is not intended to diagnose or cure any medical condition.  I am not a physician, licensed dietician or physical therapist.  This blog is the result of my personal experiences and what I chose to do for a healthier lifestyle.  As always, before you begin a diet, exercise program or add supplements, please consult your healthcare professional.

Breast Cancer: A personal journey

December 20, 2023 /

Check out my podcast, Nutrition is the Key to Health at the link below. You can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google and RSS Feed.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2340649/14766031-a-personal-journey.mp3?download=true

You might be wondering, why all this interest in diet? Well, I am on a journey. A journey to try and reclaim my health. I found that if I put it out to the world for all to see, it holds me more accountable. So, this is my journey.

In 2019, I was unexpectedly diagnosed with Stage III Metastatic Triple Negative Cancer. I didn’t even find it, my cat did. The diagnosis was a shock. No one in my family had ever had a history of breast cancer. Where did this come from? Why me?

The doctors told me this was an extremely aggressive cancer. I was thrust into the conventional therapy wormhole. I was given multiple chemotherapies, radiation, and surgeries, but fell short, and could not finish either therapy due to complications. This was before I knew about a plant-based diet, and the effects it can have in assisting cancer patients overcome their disease. It didn’t matter, I didn’t want to eat anyway, not even with all the steroids.

By the grace of God, I am still here to write this blog and I don’t know how. There were ten women I met when with my diagnosis of TNBC. Some had lower stages than I, and some were bouncing from trial to trial due to their Stage IV diagnosis. 

All the women have passed within about a year and a half except me. So, I am currently trying to educate myself on transitioning to a plant-based diet to see if I can overcome some of my health hurdles. I have found Dr. Kristie Funk MD on YouTube via Physician’s Committee for Response Medicine (or PCRM.org), and have gotten a lot of information from her and the channel. So, she, along with the others I have listed in my resource page on this blog, has helped me in my quest to further educate myself on diet and exercise.

I will say that chemo and radiation are the gifts that keep giving. For any of you who have gone through it, you will understand what I am saying without any explanation. All cancer therapies come with great costs, some more than others. When I say costs, I am speaking of financial costs and health costs. The drugs that save your life, can eventually kill you. They are not without risks.

When I was diagnosed, my cancer had already metastasized to my nodes. I had a tumor in my axillary region (under my arm), that was larger than most women’s tumor in their breasts. The primary tumor in my breast was large. Triple Negative is the second most aggressive breast cancer, taking a back seat only to Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

When I was in chemo, I would talk to the other people next to me and I would always ask what kind of cancer they had. They would return the question, and I would say Triple Negative Breast Cancer ( or TNBC), the next words out of their mouth were always the same, “I’m so sorry.” That wasn’t a warm feeling. I felt like I had a death sentence and everyone knew it but me.

All the other women I was there with that had Triple Negative, did not make it. They all passed within a year or two. So, I feel a bit guilty that I am still here. For some reason, God didn’t think it was my time, I still have work to do. 

Triple-negative is a disease that likes to return quickly and when it does, it is always at Stage IV and has metastasized to all organs, brain, and bones before they find it. I would call that, a point of no return.

The therapies after that are, in my opinion, for the forward movement of science and science only. At this point, they are throwing every drug and trial at you that your body can stand. I am not sure if there is a TNBC Stage IV survivor in this world. I am going to have to do a bit of research. I am sure there might be, but very few. 

For those that have more troubling diagnoses’, I am just wondering if conventional oncologists would use strict vegan diets along with conventional therapies if the survival outcomes would be greater? But then, will they ever do that due to cancer and their therapies, being “big cash cows” and financially huge for the doctors, facilities, and big pharma? That is food for thought. 

We all hear of those stories of curing cancer and beating it back in submission. First of all, you never “cure” cancer. Cancer is living in our bodies all the time. It is just activated into a disease state when our bodies can no longer fight and the cancer replicates or divides faster than our cells can. Then we lose all hope of keeping it under control. 

Second, I truly believe if I had refused the conventional therapies at my current disease state, and attempted a “diet only” approach, I would be dead within six months. When I came out of my fog after the diagnosis, I asked my oncologist, if I didn’t do anything, how much time would I have. He came back with “6 to 8 months, hard to say really.” 

I believe that there are certain times when we have to intervene with conventional therapies, and then follow with a diet to achieve a successful outcome. I also believe that each human being is different, and what might work for one, doesn’t work for all.

You and I have much different meanings of the word “success”, than the doctors. For instance, success to us, is a cure, and we get to live. Success to a doctor is an extension of the patient’s life of 3-6 months beyond what the patient would have without any treatment. 

There were a lot of things I wish I had known before going into my journey with breast cancer. I had a lot of sleepless nights on all the steroids and in pain, so I tried to put my time to good use. I wrote, and self-published Your Journey Through Breast Cancer, What You Don’t Know, Can Hurt You. In case you or your loved one have recently received a diagnosis, it will help you navigate the storm. 

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I have also created a matching corresponding lined blank writing Journal, to accompany the book. One of the things that got me through this difficult journey was journaling. It was a lifesaver. 

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Regardless of your lot in life, the nutrition you choose to put in your body, is the key to your health, whether you are battling diseases or not, “you are what you eat!”

Welcome to my journey. 

Alicia

Disclaimer

The following article contains affiliate partner links.  I could earn a small commission, at no cost to you, for any qualifying purchases.  

This blog is for entertainment and informational purposes only.  The information contained within this blog is not intended to diagnose or cure any medical condition.  I am not a physician, licensed dietician or physical therapist.  This blog is the result of my personal experiences and what I chose to do for a healthier lifestyle.  As always, before you begin a diet, exercise program or add supplements, please consult your healthcare professional.

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