November is World Vegan Month, a time to celebrate plant-based eating, or at least experiment with adding it into your routine.
You don’t have to go fully vegan to see some benefits.
Adding more plants to your diet can help lower cholesterol, support a healthy weight, and provide more vitamins, minerals, and fiber. For many adults over 50, it’s also a great way to improve digestion and reduce inflammation.
Here are a few easy ways to sample it:
- Go Meatless Once a Week. Try a veggie stir-fry, lentil chili, or black bean tacos. You can get plenty of protein without relying on meat all the time.
- Swap Your Milk. Almond, soy, or oat milk can replace dairy. Your supermarket is full of options.
- Try Plant-Based Protein. Look for tempeh, tofu, or edamame.
- Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter. Heart-healthy fats from olive or avocado oil support brain and joint health.
- Load Half Your Plate with Produce. Aim for leafy greens, berries, and bright vegetables. Try to eat the rainbow.
Experiment with the idea of eating fewer animal products this month. It’s not a restriction or a punishment, but a way to see if it brings you more variety, flavor and renewed energy.
Holly Kouvo is a personal trainer, functional aging specialist, senior fitness specialist, brain health trainer, writer, and speaker.