Monday, November 9, 2009
week 1...
For my lifestyle project I decided to reduce my electricity and water needs, leave my car at home, and to eat efficiently. The most challenging part of this project has been eating efficiently, I have been a vegetarian for three years, but have never tried being vegan. I thought that being a vegan would not be too difficult, but I was wrong. I did not realize how many things I ate contained dairy products until last week. I also did not do any research before changing my diet and thus was left with minimal food options especially when eating in the Commons. I actually ended up getting really sick because I did not get enough nutrition. Part of the reason I think my body did not respond well to my diet change was because of how much I exercise. Being a member of the women’s soccer team; we had a tough week of practices and games and I think I simply did not get enough food in me to stay strong. My coach and the athletic trainers actually got really frustrated with me because of this project, and one of the days that I had planned on being vegan I was forced to eat non-vegan food, because it was game day. The trainers and my coach actually signed me up to see the nutritionist on campus because they were so worried about my health. I am doing much better now and have been doing some research to check out other vegan food options so that way I can eat efficiently and stay healthy, and hopefully not get sick this week!
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First of all, kudos for the courage to do this despite the hardships you experienced in your first week. However, I should also emphasize: take care of yourself. Certainly, sacrifices should NOT include getting sick on account of your diet or this project! As an athlete, you are burning a good deal of calories, so be sure you plan ahead so that you get enough to eat.
ReplyDeleteThis website may help you along the way: http://www.vegan.org/going_vegan/eating_vegan/index.html
Note in particular the "simple and healthy meal ideas to start with" portion.
Also, I have a buddy who swears by quinoa, a seed/grain grown in South America that contains very high percentages of protein (important for vegan folk). I saw some at Whole Foods the other day, and I wonder if it is available at the fancy-schmancy HEB on Williams Dr. Here's a bit more about it: "The quinoa seed is high in protein, calcium and iron, a relatively good source of vitamin E and several of the B vitamins. It contains an almost perfect balance of all eight essential amino acids needed for tissue development in humans. It is exceptionally high in lysine, cystine and methionine-amino acids typically low in other grains. It is a good complement for legumes, which are often low in methionine and cystine. The protein in quinoa is considered to be a complete protein due to the presence of all 8 essential amino acids. Some types of wheat come close to matching quinoa's protein content, but grains such as barley, corn, and rice generally have less than half the protein of quinoa. Quinoa is 12% to 18% protein and four ounces a day, about 1/2-cup, will provide a childs protein needs for one day. The 6-7% fat of quinoa is relatively high when compared to other grains, but it boasts a low sodium content and also provides valuable starch and fiber. Quinoa also contains albumen, a protein that is found in egg whites, blood serum, and many plant and animal tissues. The seeds are gluten-free which makes this a nutritious and flavorful alternative grain for those with gluten sensitivity. Quinoa would be a worthy addition to anyone's diet, supplying variety as well as good nutrition. The seed is also excellent feed for birds and poultry and the plant itself is good forage for cattle.
Cooked quinoa is excellent in hot casseroles and soups, stews, in stir-fries, or cold in salads. The seeds cook very quickly, in only 15 minutes."
The key for you will be planning. And you may find some new and interesting recipes and foods along the way. If so, please share with the rest of us. Best of luck!!!