The whole food, plant-based diet is probably the healthiest and most natural way to eat.
It includes nutritious, fiber-rich and micronutrient-abundant plant foods and excludes all the controversial and unhealthy animal and processed products. Plant-based food is so colorful, appetizing and full of natural aromas.
By getting rid of all the unhealthy ingredients in our diet, we leave space for such a variety of tasty foods that are much more enjoyable. And healthier. Cheaper. Eco-friendly.
Is Plant-Based the Same as Vegan?
Eating plant-based usually means vegan, although some people might add honey and a bit of animal products. Most people use plant-based and vegan interchangeably, though.
What is a Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet?
Whole food, plant-based basically means eating plant foods as they are in nature and minimally processing them:
- Whole foods or unprocessed foods, are natural foods that are not refined in any way. Basically, the food is not altered in any significant way like transforming beets into sugar or olives into oil (you can blend your kale and banana into a smoothie or grind your flax seeds).
- Plant-based, meaning the food comes only from plants, and no animal products such as meat or dairy are used.
What to eat on a whole food, plant-based diet
The main food groups in a whole food, plant-based diet are:
- whole grains
- legumes
- root vegetables
- leafy vegetables
- nuts & seeds
- fruits
Follow our guide about how to feel satiated with whole plant foods.
Sugars are condiments
You should avoid sugars, even ‘natural’ ones like maple syrup and agave since these have little fiber and act as sugars in the body. Use them as condiments. Eating a whole wheat cookie with a bit of maple syrup (or even sugar) in it is better than feeling deprived and giving up altogether.
Oils should be avoided
Oils are liquid fat, they increase the risk of obesity, heart problems, hormonal problems (fat cells produce hormones), skin issues and are overall bad for you. Read why it is imperative to eat oil-free for great health here.
Ready to enjoy a great taste and healthy life. Here are our 55 whole food, plant-based recipes we picked for you.
