“The closer you can come to following a plant-based diet, the better. That doesn’t mean you have to become a vegan or vegetarian, but it means we need to be eating more plants in our diet.” – Dr. Lorenzo Cohen, MD, Anderson Cancer Center

 

Each March, we mark the spring equinox with our Healthy Food & Nutrition issue. In previous years, I’ve shared stories about growing vegetables in our family garden when I was a child, the importance of regenerative farming and proper soil nutrition, and the growing popularity of plant-based fast-food options in our culture.

 

The first issue of this publication launched in March 2011. Last month marked the completion of our 12th year, and to note the occasion, you’re invited to help us celebrate by participating in our 12th anniversary ‘Favorite Cover Contest’ and a separate ‘Reader’s Survey’, as we continue to grow and adapt to serve the needs of our community for the next 12 years. See page 3 for a link and QR code to access the contest and survey. As a thanks for participating, you will be automatically entered into a drawing to win one of several giveaways.

 

During these 12 years, I’ve also learned a lot about my personal wellness journey, shifting my eating habits and now eating smaller portions, with less sugar, dairy and red meat. I incorporate predominantly plant-based meals with fish or white meat routinely, and this approach seems to work for me. There’s not a one-size-fits-all approach that works for everyone. Each of us has specific tastes, preferences, beliefs and health factors that influence the decisions we make about our eating habits. Whatever eating choices you make, remember that many doctors, health professionals and nutritionists agree including more plants in our diet is a good idea.

 

There are wellness, nutrition, fitness and lifestyle experts within these pages and in our community that can help you determine meal plans and custom exercise routines that fit your specific needs or can guide you toward the resolution of personal growth challenges. You’ll also find reliable sources for quality, locally sourced foods, products and services aimed at supporting you on your journey toward health and wellness.

 

As we begin the 13th year publishing Natural Awakenings, and I reflect back over the last 144 months, I’m grateful for the community of readers who we serve, and the personal and professional connections that have been created with caring and talented individuals who deliver daily on their mission to serve all of us on the path to feeling good, living simply and laughing more.