Learn to Thrive With Vegan Fare

"Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances for survival of life on Earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet." - Albert Einstein

Vegan fare is a growing trend in our country because it offers numerous health benefits. When I recently visited 3 Brother’s Pizza Café, I was pleasantly surprised at the delicious, healthy, and inspired menu that this quaint restaurant offers. 

In 2007, Andy Astafa opened and named his restaurant 3 Brother's in honor of his three sons. Two years later, a vegan café emerged when he supported Jay Astafa in introducing a regal vegan menu.  Surprisingly, this self-taught chef at only 18 years old is at the helm of the vegan cuisine.

Ultimately, declaring yourself a vegan does not automatically promote health. A vegan diet must include a diet rich in plant based protein, essential vitamins (especially vitamin D and B12), minerals and amino acids. It is crucial for people to minimize their intake of sugar, unhealthy fats, toxins and processed foods since this is the root cause in so many diseases and chronic health issues.  

Now, its important to note that adhering exclusively to vegan diet may not suit everyone’s lifestyle. For instance, I find that a small amount of high quality animal protein suits my nutritional needs. 

However, integrating plant-sourced protein into your diet can promote health, balance weight, decrease your risk for certain diseases and alleviate chronic symptoms. Just look what it did for President Bill Clinton!

Reasons to go Vegan and reduce consumption of meat, poultry and dairy:

1. Animal protein taxes the digestive system and the liver.
2. A diet high in animal protein exposes people to a high level of antibiotics.
3. Animal protein is pro-inflammatory and plays a role in Diabetes, Heart Disease, some cancers, obesity, allergies, etc. 
4. Plant-sourced protein is anti-inflammatory and offers protection from many diseases.
5. A rainbow of leafy greens, legumes, nuts, vegetables, grains, and plant-sourced protein nourish and create optimal wellness.
6. Even the newest USDA guidelines have praised the benefits of a vegetarian diet.

Viable ways to go vegan:

• Slurp a green smoothie daily & add some Hemp Seeds or Chia Seeds for a great source of protein.
• Eat salads filled with greens, veggies, nuts, berries, sprouts and avocado.
• Upgrade your white rice or pasta to quinoa for a nutritionally packed protein source.
• Get your daily dose of legumes. Try chickpeas, black beans, edamame, kidney beans, etc.
• Take a break from dairy with Almond Milk, Daiya Cheese and nut butters.
• Visit 3 Brother’s Café to acquire a taste for dairy free pizza & mozzarella sticks, seitan, tempeh, bacon, nut cheeses, etc.