So recently I made a huge change in my lifestyle. No, I didn’t move again, I didn’t change my hair color…I went vegan! Yep, you heard it right. About 7 weeks ago I committed to a vegan lifestyle for a variety of reasons. I may not be a vegan forever, but I made the decision to cut out animal products from my diet to improve my overall well-being and eat more sustainably. So far, I’ve had great results.
The most challenging part of a vegan diet? No dairy. Previously I had been so used to eating cheese and drinking milk that I didn’t realize how bloated it would make me feel sometimes. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to get calcium in your diet. My latest discovery? 1915 Bolthouse FarmsTM organic cold-pressed juices and protein beverages.
I’ve always been an avid fan of juices, but 1915 Organic is a little more my taste because it’s completely organic and non-GMO. It’s the perfect pick-me-up before a workout with Brandon, because it’s sweet enough to wake me up, but doesn’t have any added sugars or junk in it.
As for my calcium intake, My Friday Fitness post will highlight some ways you can obtain calcium as a vegan. It’s extremely important to refuel after a workout with protein and calcium, but it’s hard to find non-dairy options when so many smoothies and protein bars have milk or yogurt in them. That’s why 1915 is my current go-to, because they have a line of delicious protein beverages, all organic and vegan. I usually sip on their Chocolate or Vanilla drinks after I work out to give my body the nutrients it needs. 1915 contains pea protein and non-dairy milk (almond and soy milk). It’s a good way for me to keep from being totally starving when driving home from the gym before I prepare my actual meal.
I’m excited about this new vegan adventure in my life. More and more people are realizing the benefits of a plant-based diet, and most people don’t know that you can actually get enough protein from eating adequate quantities of vegetables, legumes, and nuts. Just make sure you know what you are doing before eliminating things from your diet, because you need to keep your body healthy and you don’t want to be deficient in nutrients. 1915 really helps me grab and go, and I’m looking forward to seeing how my new diet affects my overall well-being.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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