Well hello there readers. Yes, I know, I’m horrible. I have no excuse for the lack of posts but to be honest I’ve been looking into altering this blog to incorporate thoughts on health, wellness and a vegetarian lifestyle.  Being vegetarian is not just about eating, though eating is incredibly fabulous and fulfilling, it is about eating well, taking the proper supplements and exercising. Vegetarianism is not a diet. You can’t just be a vegetarian to lose a couple of pounds and then go back to scarfing down the next rack of ribs. 

You’re unhappy about your weight so you decide vegetarianism is the route for you, so you practically starve yourself (without knowing proper vegetarian meals) to get to the weight you desire. The moment you reach your ideal weight your brain’s timer dings and you think “Ok, I’m 120 now. I can look good for that party and look sexy in that dress. I guess I can end my vegetarian streak.” Think again. Your body needs consistency in some sense. If you are eating healthy just to lose a few pounds and go back to eating unhealthy then of course your body is going to react and those few pounds quickly increase to 5, 10 even 15 pounds. 

Diets are detrimental for your body. If you want real results, a lifestyle change is in order. Like I mentioned in one of my earliest posts, being vegetarian doesn’t mean all I eat are salads and tofu. There are plenty of healthy, wholesome options to keep you full, fit and glowing. Here are a few suggestions to incorporate into your life:

Breakfast: Cream of Wheat/Oatmeal with a splash of soymilk, a drizzle of Agave nectar or honey and fresh fruit (I love blueberries), served with 2 Morningstar Breakfast Sausages and a glass of orange juice (or a cup of green tea). 

Lunch: A Caprese Salad: Basil, Mozzarella and Tomato drizzled with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and salt and pepper to taste or a Panino with the same ingredients. 

Snack: Strawberry Yogurt or Baby Carrots

Dinner: Grilled vegetables. I like to have grilled asparagus, zucchini, potatoes and broccoli with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil with salt and pepper. If you’re craving some cheese, grate some parmesan cheese over the veggies as soon as they come out of the oven. 

[Helpful hint: Eat Slower. When you chew slower you get to actually taste and enjoy the food you are eating and it takes more time to eat slow. You’re less prone to overeat if you eat slowly]

I’ve been vegetarian for 22 nearly 23 years and for many it’s incredibly bizarre. If you’re not ready to commit to a vegetarian lifestyle then slowly cut out meat from your life rather than give it up all at once. Your body will thank you.  Once you commit to vegetarianism make sure to take protein shakes (especially if you’re working out. I recommend taking one protein shake a day but even I’m guilty of not taking it everyday). My favorite is: Spiru-Tein Vanilla Protein Shake. It actually tastes great with soy milk and it is full of vitamins.  Besides protein shakes I take a multivitamin, Omega 3’s (vegetarian capsules), Vitamin D, Calcium and a supplement for Hair, Skin and Nails. 

It may sound like a lot but being vegetarian is not meant for everyone. I do encourage healthy eating accompanied by a heart pumping workout. Try a Zumba class, it’s truly liberating. 

Though I may sound like a vegetarian prude, I do enjoy an occasional french fry and have my lazy days on the couch scooping gelato into my mouth but I overall feel I live a healthy lifestyle. I believe my body thanks me for that. Overall feeling well and healthy is truly a blessing.

Peace, love and NO beef,

Guramrit