Hello, 'Catters -

This past mid-July, I started a vegan diet, plus eschewing (opposite of "chewing"? ha, ha) all sweets and bread. I had been reading more on plant-based diets, learning much about environmental concerns as well as ethical concerns of meat-centered diets.I had been pescatarian (occasional seafood0 since 2008.

I decided to go on a completely plant-based diet after being blindsided with a type 2 diabetes diagnosis mid-July. Seeing how important it is to protect my kidney and my heart, a plant-based diet of vegetables, legumes and allowed fruits, augmented with B12 and D supplements, would lower stress on the kidney and heart. There are good books on what vegans need to do to get the vitamins and minerals needed.

After two months, when re-tested, my doctor was amazed! All the numbers went down to normal range. He said "You're an inspiration." My energy and stamina have gone up, and I haven't felt this fit in years.

Normally I would not post anything about my health. I only do this to suggest that anyone here facing type 2 diabetes might want to consider a plant-based diet. It has shown to help many people, and in some cases, completely reverse diabetes and heart disease. Of course, consult with your doctor.

...and it helps the environment, not to mention the animals!.Now I'm transitioning from leather shoes and belts into synthetic (though at work as a park Ranger, I'm required to wear NPS uniform belts, hat straps, and such. Any other vegan 'Mudcatters here, or those considering? Feel free to post ideas, recipes, your own journey?

-Chanteyranger