#plant based diet for beginners

[patmccashin]

Discover the Science-Backed Benefits of a Whole Food Plant-Based Diet

Let’s be honest—food is one of life’s greatest joys. But somewhere between demolishing a triple-cheese pizza and realizing your pants now fit like a wetsuit, you start to wonder if your body is trying to tell you something. (Spoiler: It is.) Enter the Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) diet. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Great, another diet where I have to survive on lettuce and air,” let…

[hle24]

Vegan Pot Pie

When the festive season rolls around, there’s nothing more comforting than gathering with loved ones over a warm, hearty meal. This Vegan Pot Pie is the ultimate centerpiece for your Christmas dinner table—or any cozy winter evening. Packed with tender vegetables, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy herb-infused sauce, all topped with golden, flaky puff pastry, this pot pie is as stunning as it is…

[writerjuliegomes]

Is Veganism Right For You? The Astonishing Ups And Downs

Veganism has grown in thе past dеcadе as more and more pеoplе hаvе bееn swayed by health, еnvironmеntal and еthical rеasons for choosing a plant basеd diеt. This blog shall help you familiarize yourself with veganism and examine the pros and cons of being a vegan to understand better if this path suits you.

[paatmccashin]

The easiest way to switch to a wholefood plant based diet for beginners is to minimise highly processed food and introduce wholefoods in a slow and sustainable way.

[cjcooksvegan]

6 Tips For New Vegans (Beginner's Guide To Going Vegan)

6 tips for beginners to #veganism #veganuary #govegan #plantbased

[luckystorein22]

What is some vegan food?

Looking for some delicious and healthy vegan food options this summer? Lucky Store has got you covered! With our wide range of vegan products, you can enjoy all the flavors and nutrients without any animal products.

So, what is some vegan food that you can find at Lucky Store? Let's explore!

First up, we have a variety of plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk. These are perfect for adding to your morning cereal or coffee and can also be used in baking and cooking.

If you're looking for some vegan snacks, Lucky Store has plenty of options. How about some kale chips, roasted chickpeas, or vegan jerky? You can also find a range of vegan dips, including hummus, guacamole, and salsa, which are perfect for dipping veggies or crackers.

For those who love to cook, Lucky Store has a variety of vegan ingredients, such as tofu, tempeh, and seitan. You can use these in place of meat in your favorite recipes, or try some new vegan dishes from our recipe section.

And of course, we can't forget about fresh fruits and veggies! Lucky Store has a great selection of locally grown produce, which is always vegan-friendly. Stock up on summer favorites like watermelon, berries, corn, and tomatoes, and enjoy the taste of the season.

So whether you're a long-time vegan or just looking to add some plant-based options to your diet, Lucky Store has everything you need for a delicious and nutritious summer. Visit us today and take advantage of our summer sales to stock up on your favorite vegan products!

[prettyhealthfood]

Plant-Based Diet The Benefits of Following 4 Effective Plant-Based Diet

Make a positive, healthy change to your lifestyle by learning about the benefits of following a plant-based diet. Discover what you need for success and start reaping the rewards!

#plant-based, #plant-based diet,  #benefits of plant based diet, #plant-based diets, #prettyhealthfood, 

Plant-Based Diet: The Benefits of Following  4 Effective  Plant-Based Diet

Improved Health

A plant-based diet may significantly reduce your risk for certain diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer.

Following a plant-based diet has been tied to lower blood pressure and cholesterol readings, helping reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.

A well-rounded plant-based diet also can provide essential nutrients that keep all of your body’s systems functioning properly.

Other Effective Benefits

1. Lower Environmental Impact

2. Increased Energy Levels

3. Weight Management

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Read More: https://prettyhealthfood.com/ Get More Offers: https://museemarket.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdHGHF8HE8tN5kjHMM4f5-g

[healthy444]

Can I build muscle and lose fat at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to build muscle and lose fat simultaneously, though it can be challenging and typically requires a well-structured approach. This process is often referred to as “recomping” (short for recomposition). Here are some key strategies to achieve this:

1. Nutrition

Caloric Balance: Aim for a slight caloric deficit to lose fat while providing enough nutrients to support muscle growth. This typically means consuming slightly fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight.

Protein Intake: Ensure a high protein intake (1.6 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight) to support muscle repair and growth.

Macronutrient Balance: Balance your diet with a good mix of carbohydrates and fats to provide energy and support overall health.

2. Strength Training

Progressive Overload: Continuously challenge your muscles by increasing the weight, reps, or intensity of your workouts over time.

Compound Movements: Focus on compound exercises (squats, deadlifts, bench presses) that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

Consistency: Maintain a regular workout schedule, typically 3–5 times per week, to consistently stimulate muscle growth.

3. Cardio

Moderation: Incorporate moderate cardio to support fat loss without compromising muscle gains. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can be particularly effective.

Timing: Consider doing cardio on non-lifting days or after strength training sessions to prioritize muscle preservation.

4. Recovery

Sleep: Ensure adequate sleep (7–9 hours per night) to allow your body to recover and grow.

Rest Days: Incorporate rest days to prevent overtraining and reduce the risk of injury.

5. Consistency and Patience

Long-Term Commitment: Body recomposition is a gradual process that requires consistent effort over time. Patience and persistence are crucial.

Monitor Progress: Track your progress with measurements, photos, and performance in the gym rather than just focusing on the scale.

6. Individual Factors

Starting Point: Beginners or individuals returning after a long break often see more dramatic changes in body composition.

Genetics: Genetic factors can influence how easily you gain muscle or lose fat.

7. Nutrient Timing

Pre-Workout Nutrition: Consume a meal or snack rich in protein and carbohydrates about 1–2 hours before your workout to fuel performance.

Post-Workout Nutrition: Have a post-workout meal or shake with protein and carbs within 30–60 minutes after your workout to aid recovery and muscle growth.

8. Hydration

Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential for overall health, performance, and recovery. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, particularly before, during, and after workouts.

9. Supplementation

Protein Supplements: Whey or plant-based protein powders can help you meet your daily protein requirements.

Creatine: Creatine monohydrate is a well-researched supplement that can enhance strength, power, and muscle mass.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs):��These can help reduce muscle soreness and promote muscle protein synthesis, particularly when training in a fasted state.

10. Mind-Muscle Connection

Focus on Form: Pay attention to proper form and technique to maximize muscle engagement and prevent injury.

Contraction: Emphasize the contraction of the target muscles during each exercise to improve muscle activation.

11. Variation in Training

Periodization: Incorporate different phases in your training program, such as strength, hypertrophy, and endurance phases, to continually challenge your muscles and prevent plateaus.

Exercise Variety: Regularly change your exercises, rep ranges, and workout routines to keep your muscles guessing and promote continuous adaptation.

12. Tracking and Adjustment

Regular Assessments: Keep track of your body composition, strength levels, and overall progress. Adjust your diet and training plan based on these assessments to ensure continued progress.

Listen to Your Body: Be mindful of signs of overtraining or injury. Adjust your training intensity and volume as needed to prevent burnout and maintain long-term progress.

13. Metabolic Rate and Muscle Mass

Muscle Increases Metabolism: Building muscle increases your resting metabolic rate (RMR), helping you burn more calories even at rest, which aids in fat loss.

14. Hormonal Balance

Manage Stress: High-stress levels can lead to elevated cortisol, which can negatively impact muscle growth and fat loss. Incorporate stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Hormonal Health: Ensure adequate intake of essential fats and micronutrients to support hormonal health, which is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss.

15. Support System

Accountability: Having a workout partner, or coach, or joining a fitness community can provide motivation, accountability, and support.

Education: Continuously educate yourself about nutrition, training, and recovery to make informed decisions and optimize your body recomposition efforts.

By paying attention to these important factors, you can further enhance your ability to build muscle and lose fat simultaneously. Remember, consistency, patience, and a holistic approach are key to achieving long-term success in body recomposition.

[acti-veg]

Hi! Just scrolled past, wondering if you could help with a dilemma

Would you consider worm bins/vermicomposting ethical? I’ve been sold on the massive benefits it can add to a garden, (a pro for plant based diet) and you’re not extracting anything but the waste of the worms

That said, as a vegetarian & aspiring vegan I’m a little concerned ab “using” animals for anything

Help appreciated

Generally speaking, if you can avoid animal inputs then you should. In this case you certainly can, there is really no need to involve worms for effective composting. You can find a good beginner's guide on vegan composting here.

[nimupates]

What is the Alkaline Diet? A Complete Guide for Beginners

The Alkaline Diet: A Healthy Eating Plan for Optimal Wellness

The alkaline diet has become an increasingly popular way of eating that promotes overall health and wellness. This eating plan focuses on foods that help balance your body's pH levels to create an environment that supports healthy cells and tissues.

What is the Alkaline Diet?

The alkaline diet is based on the principle that the foods you eat can alter your body's pH balance and impact your health. The ultimate goal is to create an internal environment that has a pH ranging from 7.35 to 7.45, which is slightly alkaline. Foods are categorized as either acidic, alkaline, or neutral: Alkaline foods - Fruits, nuts, legumes, and vegetables Acidic foods - Meat, dairy, eggs, grains, alcohol, and processed foods Neutral foods - Natural fats, starches, and sugars By emphasizing alkaline foods and limiting acidic foods, proponents of this diet believe it can help neutralize chronic low-grade acidosis linked to inflammation, fatigue, and increased disease risk.

Benefits of an Alkaline Diet

Following an alkaline diet offers impressive benefits: Promotes pH balance Reduces inflammation Boosts immunity Increases energy Aids weight loss efforts Improves cardiovascular health Strengthens bones Detoxifies the body The diet focuses on nutrient-dense whole foods that provide antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water to help neutralize acids and remove toxins from the body. Balances pH Levels One of the main goals of the alkaline diet is to balance the body's pH levels. Chronic low-grade acidosis happens when acidic wastes accumulate in the body faster than they can be neutralized. This causes the body's pH to drop into unhealthy ranges. The alkaline diet counteracts this acidity and helps: Regulate fluids and electrolytes Filter out toxins and wastes Transport nutrients into cells Together this provides an ideal environment for cells and systems to function properly. Reduces Inflammation Acidosis creates an environment inside the body that promotes inflammation, a key factor in many chronic diseases. The anti-inflammatory foods emphasized on the alkaline diet can help reduce acidity and calm this internal fire. Some examples include: Fruits high in vitamin C Green leafy vegetables Nuts like almonds and walnuts Plant-based proteins like lentils and beans Lower levels of inflammation helps people feel better day-to-day. But even more importantly, it lowers the risk for disorders caused by chronic inflammation. Other Key Benefits Some other top reasons to follow the alkaline diet include: Increased Energy Levels - A balanced pH provides cells with ideal conditions for producing energy. Healthy Weight - The diet emphasizes low energy-density foods that support weight loss. Strong Bones - The diet provides bone-building nutrients often lacking in modern diets. Detoxification - Alkaline foods help remove acidic waste products and toxins. Together this creates an internal terrain that discourages damaged cells and chronic diseases from taking root.

The Best Alkaline Foods to Eat

Focus your diet around these alkaline superfoods: Fruits Fruits are packed with alkaline-promoting nutrients. Choose fresh or frozen organic when possible. Top picks include: Lemons Watermelon Apple Grapefruit Kiwi Berries Papaya Pears Vegetables Aim for eating a variety of organic vegetables each day. Great options include: Spinach Kale Cucumbers Celery Carrots Sweet potatoes Broccoli Sea vegetables Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. Soak nuts before eating to boost nutrients. Try: Almonds Flaxseeds Pumpkin seeds Sunflower seeds Chestnuts Chia seeds Herbs, Spices and Oils Boost flavor and pH with these additions: Lemongrass Ginger Turmeric Cinnamon Garlic Cold-pressed olive oil Coconut oil Avocado oil

Foods to Avoid on the Diet

To balance your pH effectively, you’ll also want to avoid or limit these acidic foods: Red meat Poultry Seafood Eggs Dairy products Processed grains Sugar Packaged snacks Soda Alcohol Coffee Even whole grains and beans - two staples of healthy diets - should be eaten sparingly since they skew acidic.

Additional Tips for Success

Follow these suggestions to make the most of an alkaline diet: Stay well hydrated with alkaline water Enjoy herbal teas Reduce stress through yoga, meditation, etc. Exercise at least 30 minutes daily Add more raw foods slowly Focus on how you feel As with any significant change to your diet, implement this eating pattern gradually. This gives your body time to adjust its complex systems. Pay attention to the signals your body is sending about the changes. Over time, you should feel less internal "discomfort" and more vibrant energy. Chronic issues you learned to tolerate could show improvement or fade away completely.

The Bottom Line

The emerging research shows an alkaline diet may be an extremely healthy way to prevent damage from modern diets and lifestyles. While studies continue, adjusting your eating pattern to favor alkaline foods poses little risk and offers tremendous potential. It provides a sustainable, nutrient-dense approach to eating that fights inflammation and encourages good health starting on the inside! Doctor Sebi Cell Food Diet Explained: Components, Purported Benefits, Controversy & Safety Reviewed Read the full article

[patmccashin]

The Ultimate Whole Food Plant-Based Diet Shopping List.

My whole food plant-based diet shopping list has evolved over the years. Making the transition to a whole food plant-based diet can be a difficult yet exciting and transformative journey for your health and well-being. By focusing on whole, unprocessed plant foods, you can nourish your body and manage your weight while enjoying a wide variety of delicious and satisfying meals. To make your…

[learnstransformation]

Healthy Lifestyle Books For Health Conscious People

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever. Exercise, a balanced diet, and self-care practices are essential for physical and mental well-being. However, finding the motivation and knowledge to stay on track can be challenging. That’s where books come in handy. Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best books for healthy lifestyle and fitness-conscious individuals.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to improve your fitness level or a seasoned athlete seeking to optimize your performance, this list has something for everyone. From nutrition and diet to mindfulness and exercise, these books cover a wide range of topics to help you achieve your healthy lifestyle and fitness goals. Dive into this curated selection to find the perfect read that will inspire and guide you on your health journey.

Best Books for a Healthy Lifestyle:

"The Fitness Mindset" by Brian Keane

A motivational guide to transforming your body and mind.

"Atomic Habits" by James Clear

Discover how small changes can lead to remarkable results in your health and fitness routine.

"How Not to Die" by Michael Greger, M.D.

Learn about the impact of diet on longevity and disease prevention.

"Thrive: The Vegan Nutrition Guide to Optimal Performance in Sports and Life" by Brendan Brazier

Perfect for athletes looking to enhance their performance through plant-based nutrition.

"The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.

Understand the connection between mental health and physical well-being.

"Mindfulness for Beginners" by Jon Kabat-Zinn

An excellent introduction to the practice of mindfulness and its benefits.

"The 4-Hour Body" by Tim Ferriss

A comprehensive guide to rapid fat loss, incredible sex, and becoming superhuman.

"You Are Your Own Gym" by Mark Lauren

Learn to use your body weight for resistance training and achieve peak physical fitness without a gym.

"Intuitive Eating" by Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch

Promote a healthy relationship with food by listening to your body's natural hunger cues.

"Eat to Live" by Joel Fuhrman, M.D.

A nutrient-rich approach to weight loss and health improvement.

These books are geared towards health-conscious individuals and anyone else who wants to stay fit by encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Embrace the knowledge and inspiration from these experts to take your fitness and well-being to the next level.

To know more: https://giftor.in/best-books-if-you-are-a-health-fitness-conscious/

[vezlayfood1]

Vegan Products for Beginners: Tips, Brands, and Nutritional Insights

Introduction to Vegan Products

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what all the buzz about Vegan Products is? Well, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the world of vegan products, which are items that do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. Veganism isn’t just a diet; it’s a lifestyle choice that prioritizes compassion and sustainability. Whether you’re a curious newbie or a seasoned vegan, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about vegan products.

History of Veganism

Early Beginnings

The roots of veganism can be traced back to ancient civilizations that advocated for non-violence towards animals. However, the modern vegan movement began in 1944 when Donald Watson coined the term “vegan” and co-founded the Vegan Society in the UK. This marked a significant shift in how people perceived and practiced plant-based living.

Evolution Over the Decades

Since the 1940s, veganism has evolved from a niche dietary choice to a mainstream movement. The rise of environmental awareness, animal rights activism, and health consciousness has propelled veganism into the spotlight, leading to a surge in demand for vegan products.

Types of Vegan Products

Food and Beverages

Plant-based Proteins

Gone are the days when vegans struggled to find protein sources. Today, plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, and seitan offer delicious and nutritious alternatives to meat. Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods have revolutionized the market with their meat substitutes that mimic the taste and texture of traditional meat.

Dairy Alternatives

Whether it’s almond milk in your coffee or cashew cheese on your pizza, dairy alternatives have made it easier than ever to enjoy creamy, delicious products without the guilt. Oatly and Daiya are just two of the many brands offering fantastic dairy-free options.

Personal Care Items

Vegan Skincare

Looking for cruelty-free beauty products? Vegan skincare brands like The Body Shop and Herbivore Botanicals ensure that you can pamper your skin without harming animals. These products often feature natural, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on your skin and the environment.

Haircare Products

Vegan haircare is another booming industry. Brands like Lush offer shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that are free from animal-derived ingredients and harsh chemicals.

Clothing and Accessories

Vegan Leather

Say goodbye to leather made from animal hides. Vegan leather, often made from materials like polyurethane or innovative alternatives like pineapple leaves (Piñatex), offers a stylish and ethical option for fashion lovers. Brands like Matt & Nat lead the way in chic, sustainable vegan accessories.

Sustainable Fabrics

Sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp are making waves in the vegan clothing industry. These materials are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly comfortable and stylish.

Household Products

Cleaning Supplies

Cleaning your home can be ethical too! Vegan cleaning supplies from brands like Seventh Generation and Method ensure that no animals are harmed in the process of keeping your space spotless.

Home Decor

Vegan home decor is an emerging trend, with products like cruelty-free candles, plant-based paints, and sustainable furniture gaining popularity among conscious consumers.

Benefits of Using Vegan Products

Health Benefits

Nutritional Advantages

Vegan products often pack a nutritional punch. Plant-based diets are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system and overall health.

Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases

Studies have shown that a vegan diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. By choosing vegan products, you’re not just being kind to animals but also to your body.

Environmental Benefits

Lower Carbon Footprint

Animal agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. By opting for vegan products, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and help combat climate change.

Conservation of Resources

Producing plant-based foods requires fewer resources like water and land compared to animal agriculture. This means that choosing vegan products helps conserve vital resources and promotes sustainability.

Ethical Benefits

Animal Welfare

One of the primary motivations for many vegans is animal welfare. By using vegan products, you contribute to reducing the demand for animal exploitation and cruelty.

Human Rights Considerations

The vegan movement also intersects with human rights issues, advocating for fair labor practices and the ethical treatment of workers in the supply chain.

Challenges of Vegan Products

Accessibility and Availability

While vegan products are becoming more mainstream, they may still be hard to find in some areas. Rural or less-developed regions might have limited options compared to urban centers.

Price Differences

Vegan products can sometimes be more expensive than their non-vegan counterparts. This price disparity can be attributed to various factors, including production costs and market demand.

Mislabeling and Greenwashing

Not all products labeled as “vegan” are truly vegan. Some companies engage in greenwashing, using misleading claims to appear more eco-friendly than they are. It’s essential to research and verify product labels to ensure authenticity.

How to Identify Authentic Vegan Products

Reading Labels

Become a label detective! Look for clear indications that a product is vegan. Ingredients lists and allergy information can provide clues about the product’s contents.

Recognizing Certifications

Vegan Society Trademark

The Vegan Society Trademark is a reliable certification that ensures a product is free from animal ingredients and has not been tested on animals.

PETA-Approved Vegan

PETA’s certification is another trusted mark that guarantees the ethical standards of vegan products.

Top Vegan Food Brands

Beyond Meat

Beyond Meat is famous for its plant-based burgers that taste incredibly similar to beef. Their products are a fantastic way to enjoy familiar flavors without compromising on your values.

Oatly

Oatly offers a range of oat-based dairy alternatives, from milk to ice cream. Their products are delicious, sustainable, and perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

Tofurky

Tofurky provides a variety of plant-based meats that are perfect for everything from sandwiches to holiday feasts. Their products are a staple in many vegan households.

Daiya

Daiya specializes in dairy-free cheeses that melt, stretch, and taste like the real thing. Their products are great for anyone craving cheesy goodness without the dairy.

Top Vegan Personal Care Brands

The Body Shop

The Body Shop is a well-known brand offering a wide range of vegan and cruelty-free skincare, haircare, and makeup products.

Lush

Lush is renowned for its handmade, ethical cosmetics. Their vegan products are fresh, fragrant, and perfect for pampering yourself.

Herbivore Botanicals

Herbivore Botanicals combines natural ingredients with luxury skincare. Their products are vegan, cruelty-free, and packaged in eco-friendly materials.

Top Vegan Clothing Brands

Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney is a high-fashion brand committed to sustainability. They offer stylish, cruelty-free clothing and accessories made from innovative materials.

Matt & Nat

Matt & Nat are pioneers in vegan leather goods. Their bags, wallets, and accessories are not only chic but also environmentally friendly.

Vaute Couture

Vaute Couture focuses on creating high-quality vegan fashion. Their products are designed with both ethics and aesthetics in mind.

Incorporating Vegan Products into Your Lifestyle

Transitioning Tips

Making the switch to vegan products doesn’t have to be daunting. Start small by gradually replacing non-vegan items with their vegan counterparts.

Meal Planning with Vegan Foods

Meal planning can simplify your transition. Explore vegan recipes, plan your meals for the week, and make a shopping list to ensure you have all the ingredients you need.

DIY Vegan Personal Care Recipes

Why not try making your own vegan personal care products? There are plenty of DIY recipes online for everything from face masks to shampoo.

Debunking Myths About Vegan Products

Nutritional Deficiencies

One common myth is that vegan diets lack essential nutrients. However, with careful planning, you can get all the nutrients you need from plant-based sources.

Taste and Texture Issues

Many people believe that vegan products don’t taste as good or have a strange texture. Thanks to advancements in food technology, this is no longer the case. Many vegan products taste just as good, if not better, than their non-vegan counterparts.

Limited Options

The notion that veganism limits your options is outdated. The market is brimming with a variety of vegan products that cater to every need and preference.

Future Trends in Vegan Products

Technological Advancements

Technology is playing a crucial role in the vegan industry. Innovations like lab-grown meat and advanced plant-based proteins are set to revolutionize the market.

Emerging Markets

Veganism is gaining traction worldwide, with emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America showing significant growth in vegan product demand.

Innovations in Food Science

Food science continues to push the boundaries, creating vegan products that are more delicious and nutritious than ever before. From cultured dairy to plant-based seafood, the future looks bright.

Vegan Products and the Economy

Market Growth

The vegan market is experiencing exponential growth. As more consumers embrace veganism, the demand for vegan products continues to rise.

Job Creation

The growth of the vegan market has led to job creation in various sectors, from agriculture to manufacturing to retail.

Economic Impact

The shift towards veganism has a positive economic impact, promoting sustainable practices and ethical business models that benefit society as a whole.

How to Support the Vegan Movement

Advocacy and Awareness

Spread the word! Share information about the benefits of veganism and vegan products with your friends and family.

Supporting Vegan Businesses

Put your money where your mouth is by supporting vegan businesses. This helps promote ethical practices and encourages more companies to adopt cruelty-free methods.

Personal Actions and Lifestyle Changes

Every small change counts. Whether it’s adopting Meatless Mondays or switching to vegan skincare, your actions can make a big difference.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, Vegan Food Products offer a plethora of benefits, from health and environmental advantages to ethical considerations. While there are some challenges, the growing market and increasing accessibility make it easier than ever to embrace a vegan lifestyle. So why not give it a try? Start incorporating vegan products into your daily routine and be part of the change for a better world.

[theeclecticwitchblog240]

Lucid Dreaming- how to tips

Written by: Steff from HowToLucid

So for lucid dreaming, there are similar things you can do.

There are lots of SMALL things you can differently, that will make a BIG difference to lucid dreams.

They'll help you become lucid more often and more vividly.

So what are the tips?

Here are the main ones:

Practice the right techniques that work for YOU

Eat the right food (ideally a vegan or plant based diet, but at least give up things like sugar or fat)

Be proud of lucid dreaming, and share it with your friends. This re-enforces your belief that you can do it

Don't rely on supplements at the start, learn how to actually lucid dream first

Don't sleep too little. Sleep is important for almost everything you'll do in life, so get it right

If a technique isn't working for you, try a new one. But importantly, write NOTES in your journal about the technique and what didn't work

Get a voice triggered tape recorder to record your dreams, so you don't have to physically get up and write in a diary….trust me you’ll thank me later 😉

PAMPER yourself before bed: Have a bath, massage, have a nice shower whatever you need to do to relax and go into bed feeling GOOD.

Lucid dreaming tips for beginners (list)

These aren’t in any particular order, but we’ll try and start with the more simple tips and then get more advanced as we go on.

#1 – Eat the right food

Food can actually be fairly important when learning to lucid dream.

How does this work? Well, stop for a moment and think about the food that you put into your body. Is it good food? Does it provide you with the nutrients you NEED? Most of us don’t really think about this and will just eat anything.

When you stop and think though, you realize that the food you put into your body directly affects things like your mood, mental state, dreams, sleep and much more. Try focusing on improving your diet, even just a little bit.

This change will improve your dreams and give you more lucid dreaming experiences. Also, remember to drink enough water as this has been shown to improve your mood and make your thoughts clearer.

#2 – Practice the right things

Many people try and lucid dream but they just practice the wrong things. There are certain things that will give you lucid dreams, and there are things that will just waste your time.

Knowing what to actually practice will save you LOADS of time with this, and after all, who doesn’t want to save time? We’re busy people and we like to save time where we can.

#3 – Focus on your mindset

Your mindset is VERY important.

What you believe, and what you think will directly influence your lucid dreaming ability. The thoughts you have on a daily basis, even the ones you’re not really that aware of will all affect your ability to lucid dream.

Try spending a few minutes each day affirming to yourself that you CAN lucid dream and you WILL control your dreams (See the MILD technique for more).

These positive affirmations will greatly increase the chances of you having a lucid dream. That tip right there is worth it’s weight in gold. (Even though words on a screen don’t weigh anything.. You know what I mean)

#4 – Tell your friends about it

Spread the word!

By telling your friends what you’re up to and by sharing the idea of lucid dreaming, you’re making it more ‘real’ in your own mind. Every time you tell someone something you’re making it more real because it’s SOMETHING you’re talking about.

Suddenly it becomes less of just an idea and more like something that’s a part of you that you can share with people. They say the best way to learn something is to teach people the thing you’re trying to learn. It re enforces your understanding and makes you more well rounded and knowledgeable.

By the way if you want to be a superstar and spread the love, this article would LOVE to be shared on something like Facebook or Twitter. Just saying. You can find more ways to share the lucid dreaming message here.

#5 – Read lucid dreaming tips like these

This article is a great example of something you should be doing. You’re researching the topic and learning about it, and in doing so you’re increasing the chances of you having loads of lucid dreams.

By consuming lots of information about lucid dreams you’re making your mind more open to the idea of it. The more you know, the better you’ll be able to actually do this stuff. Just don’t be one of those people who reads LOADS about something but never actually DOES anything about it.

#6 – Treat it as a journey

It’s not an overnight thing. You won’t just suddenly become a master of controlling your dreams. It takes years to become a ‘master’ and even then you’ll never know everything. There will always be new things to learn, and more to do.

That’s not a bad thing, and it’s very exciting to keep learning and seeing where it’s going to take you. Don’t be in a rush, you’ve got your whole life ahead of you to do this stuff. enjoy it! I used to be in such a rush to learn things, and it IS important to practice what you learn fast but don’t be in a rush to learn EVERYTHING all at once.

Take things slow, and do it step by step.

#7 – Get inspired by other things

There are certain things that will inspire you and make you better at lucid dreaming. Things like watching films about it, reading books about it, and going to new places will all help.

When you go to a new place, you’re giving your mind something new to focus on. New imagery, new faces, experiences, feelings and sounds. All of this is GREAT for inspiring fresh and interesting dreams.

Try and do something new every day, and try going to a new place every week or month. Of course, this will depend on if you’re able to do that, if you’re in full time work you might not be able to just get away for a few days but if you can, you should. Not only will it make you more cultured and interesting as a person, but it will make your dreams more interesting. The more new things we do, the slower time seems to pass as well! Do you remember as a kid being on ‘summer holidays’?

Those 6 weeks seemed to last FOREVER, simply because I was doing LOTS of different things in the time. I’ve been in full time jobs however, where 3-4 months just seemed to fly by in a flash. It’s because in the job I was doing the same thing every day for weeks on end, so I didn’t notice the time going past and it just vanished.

By doing MORE with the time you have, you’ll feel like you’ve lived a longer and more interesting life. Sounds simple, but are you going to do it?

#8 – MIX IT UP!

A HUGE reason people fail at lucid dreaming is they just try ONE thing for a few days and then give up. You need to mix up the techniques you try and make sure you’re always trying something new.

Think of it like a new world, and you’re the person who discovered it. You need to keep pushing the limits, trying new things, seeing what you can do. If you don’t, you’ll likely reach a ‘rut’ where you can’t seem to progress.

A good way to start mixing things up is to read lists of tips like this and trying the ones you haven’t tried before. Try new techniques like the writing induced lucid dream that I recently wrote about (no pun intended).

#9 – Reality check when you wake up

When you FIRST wake up in the morning is the BEST time to do a reality check.

This lucid dreaming tip is probably going to save you lots of pain and frustration. When I get emails form you guys, the most common one is ‘I keep having false awakenings’.

These people dream about waking up, and then after 3-4 false awakenings they’ll ACTUALLY wake up, and email me asking why they can’t lucid dream. It’s because you need to do a reality check the moment you wake up in the morning. Doing this will eventually make sure that you never have a false awakening. All o those experiences will be turned into lucid dreams. Simple, right?

Do you struggle with reality checks? I’ve created a complete reality checks guide showing you why most people fail at reality checks, and what you’re probably doing wrong.

#10 – Don’t move when you wake up

When you first wake up, for the first few seconds before you do the reality check I just mentioned, don’t move. Just lay there and REALLY think about the dream you just had. You DID just have a dream, because everyone dreams, every night.

You just need to remember it. So don’t move at first, just lay there and think about the dreams. At first this might be difficult because you’re new to the lucid dreaming game but after a while you’ll find it easier. See my post on dream recall for more information.

#11 – Voice triggered tape recorder for dreams

This is a great way to record your dreams. In order to remember more of your dreams you need to record them somehow, right? Cool, but what happens when you wake up at 4AM and there’s no natural light in the room?

You’re way too tired to find a torch and write something in a notebook, so what do you do? Use a voice activated recorder and SPEAK your dreams into that.

This way, you don’t need to lighten up the whole room with your phone torch, and you can just translate the dream when you actually wake up for the day and write it down. This voice recorder is exactly the one I’d use if I didn’t love writing in my dream journal so much!

#12 – Block out ALL light in your room

Light in your room can keep you awake.

It’s not good to have lots of light in your room as you’re falling asleep.That being said, you WANT natural light to enter your room in the morning. The ideal situation is to have blackout curtains that stop all light entering your room but that ALSO move out of the way in the morning.

Try to turn off all artificial light sources in your room before you go to sleep. This will give you better nights sleep, and more dreams.

#13 – Pamper yourself before bed

This one’s a good one. When you’ve just finished a long day of work or whatever you’ve been doing, treat yourself. Have a warm bath, shower etc. Get your partner to give you a massage. Read for a bit. do something that relaxes you.

This is great because your body can wind down before bed and you’re more likely to just fall straight asleep. Relaxing yourself and making sure you’re actually ready for bed sounds simple but hardly anyone does it!

#14 – Use a dream pillow!

A dream pillow is a special pillow that you make which smells like various incense and things. It’s designed to lull you into having a better sleep. They do work! I’ve made one with Mugwort before, but you can use lavender and all sorts of things.

Also, on the subject of pillows, please make sure you spend a little bit of extra money to get GOOD pillow! You’ll really notice the difference when you buy your first GOOD pillow. You should always splash the cash when buying a mattress or a pillow, because the quality of your sleep affects your entire life!

#15 – Take naps in the afternoon if you’re tired

A nap can be a great way to get more energy.

Taking a short nap in the afternoon is a good way to get a boost and feel great the whole day! It doesn’t even have to be that long. You can take a 20 minute nap and feel like you’ve slept for hours.

Try taking a short nap at about 4PM and see what difference it makes. If you feel better, then keep doing it! This is assuming of course that you’re able to take a nap in the afternoon. If you’re in full time work, this might not be that easy for you.

#16 – Finally learn how to meditate: It’s important!

Meditation is VERY important for lucid dreaming.

Actually, scrap that, it’s important for LIFE. through meditation, I’ve been able to overcome some challenges in my life, and stay focused and calm. Without it, I’d be a wreck right now. It’s so powerful and so simple, yet for some strange reason hardly anyone these days DOES it!

#17 – Read LOTS of books about lucid dreaming

There are lots of books you can read for lucid dreaming.

I’ve written a few, and there are famous and common ones like ‘Exploring the world of lucid dreaming‘ and many more. the more you read, the more you’ll be able to do in the dream.

It’s like anything, the more you know, the better you are at the thing. You do need to actually practice what you know as well, but knowledge is always good! Take a few minutes every day to read something about lucid dreaming. This blog has lots of fresh content, or you can use the many books that are already out there!

#18 – ‘Spend yourself’ during the day!

Now, what I mean by this is spend all your energy during the day. whatever you have to do, have lots of sex, run around, work hard on your business etc… The point is, make sure that by the time it comes to bedtime, you’re fucking knackered.

You want to be so tired that you just beg to fall asleep. This way you’ll have more things to dream about (Because you’ll have been doing lots of things during the day) and you’ll feel better when you wake up because you’ll have slipped into very deep sleep easily.

#19 – Make sure your room is cool

I’ve explained before that in order for your body to go into deep sleep, it lowers the body temperature significantly. In order to do this it needs fresh air circulating around you. Have you ever been camping and noticed that you not only wake up earlier than you usually do, but you also don’t feel that tired at all?

This is because there’s not much between you and nature. The light can easily go through your tent and activate your bodies ‘wake up’ hormones. The fresh air can easily go through the tent and enter your lungs. It’s natural and our bodies are designed to work well with nature.

Try and make sure there’s not much blocking air circulation under your bed. This will make it easier for your body to lower your temperature and fall asleep faster. Having things and lots of clutter under the mattress is a common thing that people do but it STOPS them being able to sleep as well as they could.

#20 – Eat enough during the day

Make sure you eat enough. Not only does this give your body the energy it needs, but it makes sure that you’re firing on all cylinders. You want your body to have lots of energy and be working properly.

Most people don’t eat or drink enough. And when they DO eat enough it’s junk food and takeaways. Make sure you eat lots of GOOD food and drink lots of things like water, juice and milk.

#21 – Don’t look at screens before bed

Looking at artificial light sources before bed is a KILLER of dreams.

Sure, gamers have a better chance of becoming lucid but people that stare at computer screens all the time don’t stand a chance. You want to make sure that you turn of all light sources about 30 minutes to an hour before you go to bed.

This will make your body release ‘go to sleep’ hormones which make it easier to fall asleep and enter dreams. If you find it difficult falling asleep without watching something, maybe try reading instead.

#22 – HACK YOUR BRAIN with binaural beats!

Binaural beats are a special type of sound that induces lucid dreams and altered brain states.

They are very easy to use, and very cheap. You can see my review of ennora for more information, and I think everyone should try binaural beats at least once. They work, and they’re good. You can use these sounds to induce more lucid dreams and get better sleep. You can also use them for things like improving your energy, creativity, confidence and much, much more.

#23 – Really WANT it more

Ask yourself how much you ACTUALLY want to lucid dream!

Many people say they want to lucid dream, but they only KINDA want it. They’ve maybe read an article or two and they want to just try it out to see what it’s like. That’s fine, and there’s a good chance they’ll have lucid dreams this way but to REALLY get results you’ve got to WANT it.

You’ve got to be obsessed with the idea of controlling your dreams, to the point where you’re just reading all the articles you can and buying the ebooks, courses and guides to learn more and to learn the proper way to do things. This way, you’re telling your brain that you’re not going to take no for an answer. You ARE going to lucid dream.

#24 – Use supplements and nootropics.

Using lucid dreaming supplements and nootropics are a good way to speed up your results. They can make it MUCH easier to have a lucid dream, and they’re really cheap as well!

There are many to choose from, and the pages I linked you to above are going to show you the different types and which ones are best.

The best lucid dreaming tip ever!

If I could give you ONE tip to control your dreams, it would be this:

Believe in yourself.

Everyone can lucid dream.

We all have the ability to learn lucid dreaming, but we just always tell ourselves different stories. We’ll tell ourselves that it’s not possible, or that it’s some weird thing on the internet that no one has ACTUALLY ever done. It’s not the case. It’s very real, and it can be very easy to learn. you just need to know what to practice and how to practice it.

I have written a guide for this, or you could read my post about the lucid dreaming basics. Whatever you decide to do, just don’t give up. Hopefully these lucid dreaming tips have helped you or at least inspired you in some way to keep going and keep trying.

I’m sharing this article from an email of mine. I found this article interesting and thought I’d share this with others. If you like this article I encourage you to check out their website. It’s pretty informative!

I’m not the author, just sharing the knowledge.

Blessed be!

[paatmccashin]

Steps to Start The Journey Of Whole Food Plant-based Diet for Beginners

Plant-based diet has proven to help a lot with various health issues, weight management and mental wellness. Food requirements may look different for different people and you should always consult a professional before you transition to a whole food vegan diet. You already know that including whole foods in your diet helps you reap the maximum nutritional benefits of grains, fruits and vegetables compared to processed foods and it’s a sustainable diet in the long term.

While transitioning to a healthier meal you must keep in mind to eat balanced and to address the nutritional requirements of your body. The whole food plant-based diet is built on two principles: switching heavily-processed food with less-processed wholefoods and to decrease the animal-sources in your diet. Whole Food plant diet mostly consists of natural fats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables and legumes.

Benefits of Whole-food Plant-based Diet

Studies have proved that a whole-food plant-based diet helps with heart diseases, obesity, food and increases your overall energy and immunity in the body. Also, a wholefood diet has seemed to contribute in reducing risk of chronic diseases, certain types of cancer. Women's suffering from hormonal imbalances, PCOS have also significantly benefited from swapping processed food and animal-based diet with plant-based wholefood counterparts. Here are some of the benefits that wholefood diet may provide in the long term.

Reducing risk of heart disease & certain types of cancer.

It has shown to slow down cognitive decline in older people.

34% lower risk of diabetes in more than 2,00000 people according to 3 studies by PubMed.

Bringing Hormonal balance by limiting dairy and meat

Whole Food Plant-based Diet for Beginners

If you are wishing to switch to less processed food and inclusion of wholefoods in your daily diet it is important to know the building blocks of wholefood plant-based diets for beginners. Whole food plant based diet culture mainly focuses on improving the nutritional value of the food that you consume. Here’s a list of foods to include more in your diet to make it less-processed and more plant-based.

Fresh fruits & vegetables: Including seasonal fruits and veggies in you diet  improves good carb and fibre in your diet. Try eating the rainbow meaning fruits and vegetables of different colours. Adding 2 to 3 portions of vegetables like pepper, onion, greens, tomato, potato, turnip, leafy greens is recommended and adding 2 servings of  fruit to your diet is crucial. Adding fruits in your snacks also helps in hunger cravings.

Whole Grains: Eat all of your staple carbs like bread, rice, oats but choose products that are made with whole grains to consume the maximum amount of starch and fibre. Swap your highly processed grains or food with rolled oats, brown rice, wheat bread, buckwheat noodles, farro, quinoa, and local multigrain products.

Legumes: Legumes are a great source of proteins and carb. Adding different types of legumes help in supplementing all the 20 types of amino acids. Adding peas, lentils, chickpeas, white, black and red beans will help you keep fuller for longer and increase protein in your diet.

Plant-based proteins: Adding a high amount of protein sources in a whole food plant-based diet is necessary for achieving your daily requirement of protein. Common plant-based protein sources are soy products like soy milk, curd, tofu, and tempeh.

Nuts & seeds: Eating a variety of nuts in minimal amounts helps increase the intake of good fats and oils. It also aid in improving hair, nails and skin. Add one to one-and-a-half handful of nuts and seeds in your diet.

Plant-based Condiments: Using condiments that are plant-based with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties like spices, nutritional yeast, turmeric, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg helps improve your immunity barrier in your body.

Along with including the above said foods, there are some range of foods that you must avoid or minimise to reap the benefits of this diet/lifestyle. Try to minimise red meats like pork, beef, poultry products like egg, chicken as well as seafood and dairy products. Heal your body and bring balance by including and adapting wholefood plant-based diet.

[delphictrip]

Vegan cooking resources that have helped me out a lot

Budget Bytes is amazing. If you have $12 to throw at a printable online cookbook I would recommend it, the cookbook is basically meal planning with weekly grocery lists. If that's not your jam, above is the link for her vegan recipes.

Bad Manners is a vegan chef outfit. I have a few of their cookbooks and I love them, although they can be a little hard to follow. I've linked their recipe list and it looks like you can apply filters for different types of meals and ingredients.

Tofu is very versatile. Here's a cool list of marinades that kicks ass. I recommend pressing the water out of firm tofu if you're cooking it. You don't have to marinate but it can help. The flavor of plain tofu has actually grown on me as long as it's not all I can taste in the dish.

To press I typically wrap it in paper towels and then an absorbent dish towel. Then place it between two plates and I put maybe 2-4 cans of beans or whatever on top. Let that baby sit for as long as you want, 30 minutes is generally the recommended time but you can let it go longer or a little shorter if you're super crunched on time.

Freezing tofu is a decent method of preservation if you have too much to eat or it's going to go bad (almost never a problem for us, and it keeps pretty well in the fridge). Do note that freezing tofu completely changes the texture and essentially turns it into a sponge. You can squeeze water out of it with your hands and it soaks up marinades like crazy but it doesn't hold together too well for frying and you can turn it into a giant mess if you try to press it with too much weight (it will fall apart).

A favorite method of cooking tofu is frying it with a cornstarch crust. I don't bother making it fancy, usually just salt and cornstarch is my jam. I wouldn't recommend marinating it first because if it's too soggy the crust doesn't stick well to the tofu. Also do not recommend making this in advance because the crust turns gummy if you leave it sit too long. Super tasty for dinner over rice and stir fried veggies though!!!

This is a pretty decent guide. Also, a lot of the "vegan diets aren't good for you/a good way to get your nutrients" that you hear about people who quit veganism are people who either didn't plan it very well/did not get supplements or did something bananas like a raw food vegan diet and it didn't work out for them. I tend to not plan my food too well aside from "protein, vegetable, grain" and I get my fats and sugars from the oils I use to cook and the sugars that come with the other categories or the junk food part of my diet. Pure junk food vegan isn't very sustainable and neither is raw vegan. If you're going to go vegan you will likely have to do a lot of cooking for yourself. I keep chickn nuggets around for lazy nights but if I have the energy I'm making something with chickpeas and rice or beans and rice or tofu or seitan as the protein of the dish.

Contrary to popular belief you do not have to subsist off of quinoa and avocados. I barely eat either because a) don't really like quinoa and b) avocados suck because I live in Alaska and it's nearly impossible to get good avocados.

Another point is to not beat yourself up if you accidentally use/consume an animal product. It happens to the best of us, best thing to do is to move on with the knowledge of what to avoid in the future.

The more you learn on this journey will likely lead you to conclusions you never saw coming. You may be in less denial about what happens to farmed animals. You will be upset about the little non-vegan parts of foods that could easily be vegan (see: gelatin in cereal for some reason. milk powder in chips.). You will find yourself avoiding leathers and furs. You will find yourself absolutely horrified with standard practices in animal agriculture the more you open your mind to learning about it. You will also find yourself more open to seeing animals in a different way. I was a carnist a little over two years ago. I'm still a rather new vegan, but it's amazing what a paradigm shift I've experienced.

Going vegan helped me in ways I never expected. It helped me emotionally with the trauma around the hobby farm I grew up on. Actually uncovered some memories I had blocked out. It also feels good to know that I'm not contributing to the suffering of industrialized animal agriculture.

Anyways, go vegan! The vegan society defines veganism as "as far as practicable" and for most people that is a lifestyle and diet completely without animal products. Sometimes there are barriers for people and reducing animal consumption as much as you can is still helpful.