Step aside, Sherlock Holmes. WayFare Health Foods is on the case and ready to bust some myths about our good friend: the plant-based diet.
We know how simple and healthy eating a plant-based diet can be. But here’s the thing—many people don’t! Some individuals haven’t heard of a plant-based diet or have been misinformed about what it’s really like. When it comes to dietary habits, people can be very cautious because personal health is precious. We’re dedicated to laying out the facts about good nutritional practices because your health is worth it.
Here’s what we know: we believe plant-based eating can improve your health, and science is on our side, too. But we want to make sure you feel confident and have questions answered before changing your dietary habits—we’re all in this together! So, with your questions in mind, we’re polishing our magnifying glass, opening our memo pad stuffed with notes, and getting ready to debunk the top four myths we’ve heard about plant-based diets. Once we’ve laid out the truths, we hope you’ll walk away with more confidence and knowledge under your belt about plant-based eating. Heck, maybe you’ll become a fellow super-sleuth and set the record straight for others curious about trying a plant-based diet!
Debunking 4 Plant-Based Diet Myths
Myth: Trying to transition to a plant-based diet is too hard.
Truth: Let’s face it: starting any new task—whether it’s a dietary change, a new hobby, or an exercise regimen—feels overwhelming from the start. But with the proper knowledge and tools on hand, you can conquer any task set before you, and that includes transitioning to plant-based eating. Start by researching some of the basics of what foods to include on your grocery list, which foods to remove, and what ingredients to watch out for on food labels. You may find out that many of the foods you already eat are plant-based, like applesauce, pasta, beans, rice, and even Oreos!
From there, you can integrate new foods and phase out old ones at a pace that’s sustainable for you and your family. We suggest just adding one plant-based meal a week for the first month, then two, then three, and so on. If you need some inspiration for plant-based meals, check out our recipes page.
Need a hand getting started with a plant-based diet? We’ve got your back! Check out the WayFare Guide to Going Plant-Based.
Myth: You don’t get enough nutrients on a plant-based diet.
Truth: It is very doable to get the nutrients your body needs on a plant-based diet with good food choices. For example, dark leafy greens are great sources of calcium, like kale, spinach, and bok choy.
“What about protein?” you may ask. “Isn’t meat a primary source of protein?” Why, yes, it is—but it’s not the only source of protein! Beans, tofu, nuts, and whole grains can provide a rich source of protein to meet your daily intake needs. The same goes for iron, which is another major nutrient found in meats. Iron-enriched breakfast cereals, chickpeas, oats, broccoli, and tomatoes are a few of the many plant-based foods that can be excellent sources of iron.
Myth: My kids won’t like eating vegetables if we switch to a plant-based diet.
Truth: Like Big Foot or the Loch Ness Monster, this myth is one of the most common tall-tales we come across: kids don’t like to eat vegetables. In truth, many kids do enjoy eating vegetables when they are well-prepared, and they can lend a hand in the selection and cooking process. If you want to introduce your kids to plant-based eating, involve them in the food options so they can feel part of the process.
To get them started, try making plant-based versions of foods they already enjoy, like spaghetti with tofu bolognese sauce or cauliflower nuggets. Then, start offering them a choice between different veggies, like corn on the cob or carrot sticks, celery with plant-based cream cheese or broccoli with plant-based cheddar sauce.
Myth: There aren’t enough options when eating a plant-based diet.
Truth: You have the whole world at your fingertips when you eat plant-based—literally! Many people forget that the Earth produces so many natural ingredients that they can eat with this diet. Bonus, they can combine these ingredients to form incredibly unique, tasty dishes. Yes, fruits and veggies are a major part of plant-based eating, but so are grains, healthy fats, legumes, seeds, nuts, tofu, assorted condiments, plant-based milks, spices, herbs, and so much more! Once these foods become the focal point of your diet, your creativity expands in the kitchen, so you can whip up many different foods you and your family will love. Here are a few of the scrumptious dishes you can try:
- Creamy Twice-Baked Potatoes
- Dairy-Free Nachos
- Plant-Based Lasagna
- Rainbow Raw Thai Salad
- Curried Zucchini Fritters
- Rhubarb Crumble
WayFare is proof that there are plenty of options on this diet. All our products are not only completely plant-based but kosher, vegan-friendly, and free from the big 8 food allergens. From the best plant-based butter on the market to our rich plant-based sour cream, our foods make meals simple, delicious, and amazing.
Need some recipes to mix up your plant-based meal prep? Check out our WayFare recipes and blog! They’re stuffed full of delicious meals and treats to enjoy for every occasion and time of day.
Ready. Get Set. Let’s Go Plant-Based!
Have we solved some mysteries for you? If you think so, share your newfound knowledge with a friend and give plant-based eating a try with WayFare! We offer the finest range of plant-based products on the market, and we don’t skimp on flavor, either. From puddings to cheddar cheese sauces, we want to make plant-based eating fun and tasty for you and your loved ones. Shop our products online today!