I’m definitely not a vegetarian (love some red meat!) but plant-based definitely has its advantages in cutting down the carbs, unhealthy fats, etc. Here are a few plant-based meals / snacks I love:

1. Nutrilite Begin™ Daily GI Primer - I drink Nutrilite Begin every morning. It supports healthy digestion, immune health, liver and skin health, energy and metabolism. It’s a 6-in-1 drink supplement infused with six gut-supporting blends like fermented greens, prebiotics and fiber, postbiotics, alkaline spices, digestive enzymes and more.
2. Salads - You can’t beat a loaded salad full of veggies for lunch. You can add a protein or leave it out, but a salad has all kinds of benefits, and I often find that if I go with a salad, I don’t overeat which helps me sustain my energy into the afternoon.
3. Vegetable snacks - I’ve been going for more green snacks lately which I think has helped me lose some weight and even reduced cravings for carbs. A veggie plate for me consists of carrots, celery, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower and more. I’m not sure if peanut butter counts against plant-based but that’s a definite yes with the celery.
4. Plant based protein smoothies - Lastly, my favorite go-to are plant - based protein smoothies. I usually have one or two per day with either chocolate or vanilla and add some peanut butter and vegetables.

There are plenty of great options if you want to work in some plant-based meals and snacks into your diet to cut down on carbs or unhealthy fats. Overall, I go with a balance that I find works best for me and to make sure I can maintain energy for working out and my daily routine.

What are your favorite go-to plant-based meals or snacks?

I have taken more time in recent months to eliminate small bad food habits out of my diet such as with unnecessary carbs and snacking. I’m not a nutritionist and I think certain foods can have different impacts on people. There are some food habits I follow in which I believe boost my energy levels to push through my workouts and get the most out of my day. Here are a few of them:

1. Water intake - My goal every day is to drink half my body weight in ounces of water. Water is the body’s fuel and while I’m not always perfect at this habit, it’s one I track and do my best to be consistent with.
2. Carb management - Again, I’m not a nutrition expert, but when I played college soccer, I would carb load before games because I knew I was going to need the fuel to push through. I don’t get as intense of exercise now, so I do know that I have to have a balance of carbs. I choose to orient towards more lean protein such as chick breasts and balance it with lower carb options. This approach seems to work to provide the fuel I need throughout my day.
3. Supplements - While I believe in getting everything our body needs from whole foods, the reality is I’m not perfect. I’m going to miss some essentials or not get enough of them. That’s why I have a number of vitamins and supplements I take each day. With a high-quality vitamin such as the Nutrilite brand, my body has what it needs to perform.

The above food habits seem to work for me. I’m sure there is plenty of room for improvement, but based on my current activity levels, sleep and work requirements, I get what I need to perform and avoid crashing throughout the day. Beyond these 3 habits, I have to watch my caffeine intake and ensure I’m getting plenty of rest.

What food habits boost your energy levels?

Eating healthy is something that I’m paying more attention to these days. In fact, my number one priority used to be lifting weights and then cardio. Now, it’s my sleep, diet, cardio and then lifting weights. I’ve often heard eating and sleep are 90% of of the game. Many people prioritize the gym, but don’t eat healthy. I’m not a nutritionist, but here are 5 quick and health snacks I am loving right now:

1. Protein Bars - I’ve made protein bars a regular part of my diet. I usually look for the organic ones high in protein and lower in carbs. Here is a favorite.
2. Protein Shakes - Protein shakes are a daily necessity for me. I don’t use them as a meal replacement, but to fuel energy and as another source of protein. Here is my go - to organic protein powder.
3. Celery and Almond Butter - Can’t beat some healthy vegetables with almond butter or peanut butter spread. I avoid anything with high sugar though. It’s always nice to include some cheese too.
4. Apple and Nuts - While there is natural sugar in an Apple or fruit, I love having a fruit choice such as an apple which can be a quick grab along with a handful of nuts.
5. Sprouted bread with almond butter - I’ve taken most bread out of my diet, but I will have a slice of sprouted bread with almond butter spread if I need a little extra during the day. Most of the time, I’ll have this option with three fried eggs in the morning.

There you go, my quick and health snacks right now. They aren’t too creative, but much better than going for chips or unhealthy carbs. I’ve noticed as I’ve shifted my diet to wiser food choices, my energy levels have improved too.