“Let Food Be Thy Medicine, Let Thy Medicine Be Thy Food” Hippocrates

My decision to try a vegetarian lifestyle was purely based on health, although the ethical arguments are compelling. Here's my story...

For years, I struggled with weight considering my petite frame. I went from little girl to woman in what seemed overnight. I am a very happy person, and issues regarding my body plagued me causing a lot of stress as an adolescent. As I grew older, I was more in control of my weight; however, other ailments caused constant distress. At age 18, I was diagnosed with Acid Reflux Disease. As recommended by my doctor, I gave up acidic foods (tomatoes, lemons, coffee, etc.), I did not go to bed on a full stomach and even took over the counter medication as if it were m&ms. I also suffered from irritable bowel (the symptoms of which I will spare you), constant fatigue, severe allergies, and high cholesterol.

Finally, after years of constant discomfort, I went through test after test trying to figure out what was wrong. The test results came back and according to doctors I was "normal." This news was infuriating and heartbreaking especially since so many tests can be so intrusive. I was more determined than ever to fix my dis-ease. So I did the research myself and here's what I found:

The 17 Day Diet introduced me to better food choices, but after 17 days, though I lost 11 pounds, I did not feel any better. The first documentary that introduced me to whole foods diet was Forks Over Knives and my desire to know more was piqued! I watched more... Food, Inc., Food Fight, Hungry for Change, Vegucated. 

Then I read... The Kind Diet, Main Street Vegan, Food Matters, Food Rules, In Defense of Food, The Omnivore's Dilemma, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle. 

Then I cooked... The Kind Diet, Candle 79, The Candle Stick Cafe, The Crazy, Sexy Kitchen, Forks Over Knives - The Cookbook, Plenty.  I even took The Culinary Institute's Saturday cooking class for vegetarian cuisine! So much fun!

I treated myself.... take yourself and someone you love down the city, see a Broadway play, then enjoy a completely vegan a romantic dinner at Candle 79, or lunch The Candlestick Cafe! 

After eight plus years, I am happy to say that I no longer suffer from any of the aforementioned dis-ease and I lost 30 lbs! I have more energy that allows for regular exercise. My favorite is YOGA!!!!

Check out my grocery list for items I like to have on hand! Get creative with recipes. Try something new! I try to pick at least 2 new recipes to try every week, so I add those ingredients to my list as well. I'd love to hear what's working for you?!

E