Yep, I jumped on the bandwagon.

In case you didn’t know, I’m a vegan, but not in the tree-hugging, animal loving kind of way, although, I think that I see it in my near future. I’m more of a dietary vegan. I chose veganism because it makes me feel good inside and out.

Coming into 2017, I had the pleasure (insert sarcastic tone here) of bringing an additional 30 pounds with me. Yea, you read that right. 30 pounds. I went from cute face, slim waist and a nice behind to looking like who did it and why? Some of you may say, “Jessica, don’t be so hard on yourself” or “don’t talk about yourself that way!” But that’s the way I felt. I’d tried so many things. Paleo, keto, high fat/low carb, meal delivery services, etc. Nothing really seemed to stick. Then mid-year, as I was working through my minimalism challenge I finally found something that worked. As I completed the challenge, I was forced to ask myself why I eat certain foods and if I believe those foods are helping me to attain my health goals. Right off the bat, I didn’t really know the answers, but the more I explored those questions, the more I began to learn about various foods, diets and food production. This research led me to immediately cut out fast food. With the exception of Raising Canes french fries. I mean does anyone turn away from that sauce?

Then, I began cutting out meat, fish, eggs and dairy.

Making those changes has:

1. Helped me lose 20 pounds – without counting calories or even working out!
2. Given me mental clarity
3. Helped me sleep and provided me with more energy throughout the day
4. Lowered my blood pressure
5. And much, much more!

As I continue this journey, I’m going to share what I’ve learned and how adding more veggies can help you too!