Thursday, March 14, 2019

Got the Flu and Plant Based Eating

Last week, it turned out to be the season for finally getting the flu after having hung in there the entire, deep, long, eternal Northern Canadian winter.  The flu felled my thoroughly, just as we were going to turn the corner with the frigid weather.  From one hour to the next you think you are passing from life to death.

The irony for me was that I had been quite resistant to colds, and proclaiming it somewhat loudly, ever since we switched to a plant-based diet--no more spurning of fruits for the many grams of fructose in them, grains, seeds...  Once, I was adjusted I felt very good and handily fought of colds, even as I spent much time with toddlers and in some group homes. 

Still I am putting my money on fruits and vegetables, beans and greens.   It has taken almost a year to get efficient about shopping, chopping and cooking plant-based for a two-person household.  I cook all my beans from the dry stage, and then I end up with loads of them, necessitating freezing batches that come in handy later.

It is all worth it.  I am very grateful for all the new info that has been shared and the great recipes that abound.  I don't want to take the time right now to explain and lecture about various benefits, but I do highly recommend everything written by Dr. Greger of "How not to Die"-fame and his free info on the website: https://nutritionfacts.org/  (Of course, we are going to die, we are just going to try to make sure, as best we can, that it isn't by our own fault.)

The information is top-notch and the videos are short and precise, spiced occasionally with Dr. Greger's inimitable humor.  The cookbook has fabulous illustrations.  The research book is fascinating and thoroughly scientific.  The new Canada food guide lines up very nicely with this info, and is said to be a triumph of reason over the food industry lobby. 

I highly recommend both books and the videos on the Nutritionfacts site. They have all been a game-changer for my husband and myself.  We eat very differently now and much more recommended food makes it to our plates.






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