Frequently Asked Questions

Question: I heard that plant-based diets were insufficient when it comes to protein.  Where would I get my protein on a plant-based lifestyle?

Answer: I like to counter this question with, "Do you know how much protein you need and how much protein you generally consume?".  Protein intake is dependent on a number of factors which include age, activity level, and fitness goals.  A marketing ploy that certain industries have used for many years involves beef, poultry, and fish being the ONLY or BEST sources of protein.  However, they rarely mention that most of the "land animals" that we consume obtain their protein from plants, which applies to us plant-based eaters as well.  Some of the foods we eat and are included in my meal ideas that I can customize for you are legumes (different types of beans, chickpeas, lentils, peanuts), nuts, seitan, seeds, asparagus, sprouts, Chinese cabbage, various types of leafy greens, tofu, tempeh, potatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower just to name a few.  Not to mention an assortment of fruits, other vegetables, and healthy supplements.  My nutrition plans have include foods and ingredients for all of the protein that you'll ever need, minus the high fat content and cholesterol you would get from animal products.

 

Question: Is plant based eating expensive?

Answer: The term "expensive" will always be a relative term.  What I can tell you is that my experience buying plant-based products is much cheaper than buying animal products.  They're also cheaper that some of the healthcare costs associated with "unhealthy" eating.  To put this to the test the next time you're at your local grocer compare the price of the smallest pack of beans to the smallest pack of beef, chicken, or fish.  As a matter of fact take a look at some of the items in the Produce section and compare them to the animal products in the same store.  You tell me what's cheaper.  :-)

Of course, like their counterparts, not all plant based products are created equal.  There are "meat" alternatives that can be pricey and I would personally recommend using them sparingly for a variety of different reasons.  However, I'm referring to whole food, plant-based products.  Most of which you'll find in the Produce section of that same local grocer.  I've saved bundles of money when my buying habits changed to plant-based eating and I'm sure you'll do the same if you haven't done so already.

 

Question: Where do I buy "plant based" foods?

Answer: Usually, your local grocery will have a produce, legume, "healthy food", or frozen section that has plant based products.  An old trick of the trade is to look for these items at the far ends of the stores.  I always recommend fresh or minimally processed foods.  If you have to do canned foods be sure to read the labels for animal products.  For example, take a look at the sodium content in canned beans as opposed to that of dry beans.  And remember, the less additives the better.  If you can't pronounce the ingredients, chances are it's not the best thing for you.

 

Question: Do I have to be 100% plant-based to be coached?

Answer: Absolutely not.  Becoming fully plant-based was a personal choice that I made in order to maximize my health.  

 

Question: What can I expect from a nutrition coaching program?

Answer: A customized fitness program that is tailored to help you meet your fitness goals.  Prior to starting the program we'll go through goal-setting, what kind of progression you can expect, your road map to success, and the necessary assessments to get you started.