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INTERVIEW ON THE PRICE OF BUSINESS SHOW, MEDIA PARTNER OF THIS SITE.

Recently Kevin Price, Host of the nationally syndicated Price of Business Show, welcomed Dr. Ann Hester to provide another commentary in a series.

The Dr. Ann Hester Commentaries

Transitioning to a plant-based, whole food diet from a traditional meat-based diet is a powerful choice that can transform your life, benefiting both your health and the environment. The follow tips provides a structured approach, empowering you to make this change gradually and sustainably.

Step-by-Step Transition Plan

Step 1: Increase Plant-Based Foods Gradually Begin by incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals. Start with manageable changes, such as adding a serving of vegetables to each meal or replacing one meat-based meal a week with a plant-based option. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains.

Step 2: Explore Plant-Based Protein Sources. This step is crucial as it addresses a common concern about shifting away from meat-the potential lack of protein. However, many plant-based sources are rich in protein. Include foods such as lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, and quinoa in your diet. Experiment with different recipes to see what you enjoy most.

Step 3: Reduce Meat Portions Gradually Instead of making drastic changes, gradually reduce the meat portions in your meals. For example, if you’re used to having a large steak, cut the portion in half and fill the rest of your plate with additional vegetables or grains.

Step 4: Educate Yourself About Plant-Based Nutrition To ensure a balanced diet, educate yourself about plant-based nutrition. Learn about the essential nutrients and how to obtain them from non-meat sources, such as iron from spinach or vitamin B12 from fortified foods or supplements.

Step 5: Embark on a Culinary Adventure. The internet is a treasure trove of recipes that cater to plant-based diets. Dive into these resources and delight in experimenting with making different meals. This can make the transition more enjoyable and less of a chore, sparking your curiosity and creativity in the kitchen.

Step 6: Listen to Your Body. This is perhaps the most important step. As you transition, pay close attention to how your body responds. You might notice changes in energy levels, digestion, or general well-being. Adjust your diet based on these signals to ensure your body gets what it needs. And if you have a chronic health condition, check with your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet.

Health Benefits of a Plant-Based, Whole-Food Diet

Improved Heart Health Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients for heart health. Studies have shown that such diets can reduce the risk of hypertension, lower cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of developing heart disease.
Weight Management Whole foods are generally lower in calories and higher in fiber than their processed counterparts. This can help in weight management by making you feel fuller for longer, thus reducing the overall caloric intake.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases Adopting a plant-based diet can lower the risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and obesity. This is mainly due to the reduced intake of saturated fats and increased intake of beneficial nutrients.
Better Digestive Health The high fiber content in a plant-based diet not only helps in weight management but also improves digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiota.
Environmental Benefits In addition to personal health benefits, shifting to a plant-based diet also has significant environmental benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and less strain on water resources.

Transitioning to a plant-based, whole-food diet is not just a change in your eating habits, it’s a journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. By taking gradual steps and educating yourself about proper nutrition, you can ensure a smooth and beneficial transition. Rest assured, the health benefits are numerous and significant, providing you with the motivation and confidence to continue on this path.

Ann M. Hester, M.D. is a board-certified internist with over 25 years of experience. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Tennessee in Memphis. Dr. Hester believes when patients are taught exceptional “patient skills,” they become empowered to play a previously unimagined role in optimizing their medical care and minimizing medical costs. Her mission is to share these critical skills by various means, thereby improving patient outcomes and strengthening the U.S. healthcare system. This mission started in medical school when she witnessed the tremendous gap between how patients and doctors think. Over the years, she has written various patient empowerment pieces online and through books. Her latest book is Patient Empowerment 101: More than a book, it’s an adventure! This unique work takes an unprecedented step in helping people think more like doctors and position themselves at the center of their healthcare team.

Learn more at https://www.patientempowerment101.com.

Connect with her through social media:

Twitter: @patientworldnet
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patientempowerment101