I Had My Physical Today - Why I Am Plant Based And Vegan

I started my plant based journey for health reasons. Of course, since then, I became vegan too, as my compassion for animals and concern for the environment grew. But today, I had my yearly physical and had a reminder about why I am plant based... a clean bill of health.

I never liked going to the doctors. I had such phobias when I was a kid, and it was part of the reason why I avoided going as an adult. It wasn't until 2012 when I had my first physical that I really started getting over my anxiety (although, admittedly, it's still there!). When I found out I was pre-hypertensive and that my cholesterol was elevated, it was a huge wakeup call.

I did not want to be someone who had to frequent doctor's offices, go to specialists, do tests, etc. I especially didn't want to be on any meds.

Well today, 8 years after that first physical, my doctor told me he wished more patients were like me. He told me not many people are willing to take control of their health. Many people would rather go with medication than to make changes.

He couldn't find a thing to complain about. My blood pressure was good, my cholesterol numbers were good, my blood glucose was good.  Just 8 years ago, I was on the verge of diabetes (I had constant neuropathy in my feet and other symptoms) and heart disease. It's such an amazing experience to be plant based and not have to worry over what the lab results will be.

He did say that one of the numbers on my lab work showed that I needed more protein but he just told me to eat more beans! I think I can handle that without a problem! He also told me something bizarre, to add olive oil and other healthy fats. Well, I have avocados and nuts, but I know better than to listen about the olive oil. As we've all heard before, doctors aren't taught much nutrition in med schools! At least it's comforting to know that my doctor has no problems with my dietary choices!

I've said it before that I would still be vegan, even if they were to say that animal products were healthy (which they won't). But isn't it awesome to know that by being plant based, I can have optimal health and not be dependent on meds? I doubt anyone could find an argument against eating plant based.

My doctor finished his exam by telling me "don't ever change". I don't ever plan on changing, as I would hate to go back to the days of worrying about my health and if I'd develop diabetes. Plus, the planet desperately needs more vegans to slow down the damage we are doing to the environment..