After being diagnosed with Lupus, many people asked me if I still believed in a vegetarian lifestyle.
In fact, my answer is simple: yes — now more than ever.
No, it didn’t stop me from getting sick. However I believe it helped me survive long enough to get a diagnosis.
And now, as I manage this autoimmune condition every day, I am eating a whole-food, plant-based diet is one of the most powerful tools I have for healing, balance, and energy.
🌿 Why Plant-Based Eating Still Matters
Even with everything I’ve been through, I believe in the science — and in the power of plants. Here’s why:
1. Plant-Based Foods Are Rich in Healing Nutrients
Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are packed with:
- Vitamins like A, C, E, K, and folate
- Minerals like magnesium and potassium
- Antioxidants that fight inflammation and cell damage
- Fiber, which is essential for gut and immune health
These nutrients don’t just help us feel better — in fact, they also help our bodies fight disease at a cellular level.
2. They’re Good for Your Heart and Your Brain
Whole plant foods are naturally low in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can help reduce your risk of Heart disease, High blood pressure, Stroke and Cognitive decline
Many people don’t realize that our brain health is directly tied to what we eat. A fiber- and antioxidant-rich diet supports focus, clarity, and mood.
3. Your Gut Loves Plants
A healthy gut is essential for a strong immune system.
Plant-based foods feed good gut bacteria, improve digestion, and help regulate inflammation — all of which matter so much for anyone with chronic or autoimmune conditions.
Additionally, my husband and I have a saying: “My mouth may not enjoy it, but my guts are clapping of happiness” when we have some raw vegetable.
It’s not a cure, but it’s a foundation for long-term health.
Every little step we take to reduce the “toxic burden” on our bodies matters — especially when our immune system is already working overtime.
Final Thoughts: Balance Over Perfection
I’m not here to tell anyone to become vegan/plant based. What I do believe is that the more whole, unprocessed plant foods you add to your life, the better.
Instead you don’t need to change everything at once. As my husband likes to say, you first add a vegetable to your meal and when you learn to like it, you will think to start to remove the animal based food. Baby steps… You can also start with one meal a day. Add a smoothie. Replace packaged snacks with nuts or fruit. Choose whatever is better for you.
Your body — and your future self — will thank you.
Start now your plant-based diet for a better health:
