Wannabe Fat-Free
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Dear Vegan,
I’ve been reading about veganism for years. However there’s something I’ve been struggling with. I’m a partial vegetarian and I’m to integrate that with a fat restricted medical diet for several years now.
Due to disease, I’m restricted to a very low fat intake. This is a problem with a vegan lifestyle. Things like nuts or meat replacements are way to fatty for me.
Do you have tips or sources I can use to figure out how to integrate a vegan lifestyle with the medical diet I’m on?
Thanks in advance,
Wannabe Fat-Free
Dear Wannabe Fat-Free,
It’s definitely possible to meet your nutritional needs by eating purely plants and also avoid fat. In fact, a number of doctors recommend a low-fat vegan diet.
There’s no nutritional need for processed meat replacements or nuts. Instead, stick to high protein foods that are naturally low in fat like:
- rice & beans,
- quinoa,
- edamame.
And eat fortified foods or naturally low fat foods to obtain other nutrients. For example, eat leafy green vegetables, broccoli, or fortified orange juice for calcium. Try spinach, oatmeal, potatoes, or enriched pasta for iron. Eat fortified soymilk or take a multivitamin to obtain B12. And get some sun for vitamin D.
I suggest that your read the books and articles by these doctors:
- Dr. Barnard – http://www.nealbarnard.org/
- Dr. McDougall – http://www.drmcdougall.com/
- Dr. Esselstyn – http://www.heartattackproof.com/
- Dr. Campbell – http://www.tcolincampbell.org/plant-based-nutrition/
And once you’re educated about nutrition and feel confident, here are some low-fat vegan recipe sources:
I hope this has been helpful. Remember, virtually anyone can go vegan!
Sincerely,
Your friendly neighborhood vegan.
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*This is not health advice. Consult a doctor or dietitian if you have a medical condition that restricts your diet.
“The Engine 2 Diet,” By Rip Esselstyn (Dr. Esslestyn’s vegan, former triathlete, firefighter son) also has excellent low-fat vegan recipes, and some inspiring encouragement.