Hello VeGALs (Vegan Girl AthLetes)!  As we all know, it is Meatless Monday!  But today also kicks off US VegWeek!  For VeGALs, every day is Meatless Monday, every week, a VegWeek, after all, we are "firmly planted!"  Let today and the rest of this week be an opportunity to express pride in our bodies, love and compassion for animals AND regard for our environment.  Invite friends over for dinner or meet them out at a veg-friendly establishment!  Set a positive example for your family, friends, work-out buddies and co-workers by introducing meat-free alternatives, chock full of flavor!  If everyone could at least choose plant-based meals one day a week, we can improve our health significantly as well as reduce our carbon footprint globally!  If you happen to be in the Ft. Lauderdale area tomorrow night, Tuesday, April 23rd, try and catch the screening of the film "Veducated" at Cinema Paradiso, at 7:00 p.m. where compassion over killing will be the focus!

Hello, fellow VeGALs (Vegan Girl AthLetes)! As we all know, we are firmly planted, meaning we take great measures to stay fit and healthy using plant-based, cruelty-free fuel!  As careful as we may be to uphold such standards, it is possible to fall short when it comes to our beauty regimen.  For example, did you know that many common, conventional body lotions, facial moisturizers, sunblocks, soaps, shower gels, body scrubs, shampoos and conditioners contain parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben) which work as preservatives to extend their shelf lives? These parabens can actually mimic estrogen in our precious bodies.  As it is, we as females face some issues regarding the delicate hormonal balances as they relate to our age as well as our intense training schedules.  In addition, many of the foods we eat contain phytochemicals, namely phytoestrogens, which too can have a negative impact on our hormonal system.  Add to that our beauty products which may contain parabens and you are talking recipe for disaster.  Too avoid estrogen overload, make sure to read the labels of your fave beauty products and look for those which are "paraben free."  We are starting to see more mainstream companies adopting this standard but you will have plenty of choices by visiting your local health food store, like Whole Foods, Tunies or online discount websites.  The majority are safe and affordable without compromising quality or effectiveness.  VeGALs are hard core in every way but it is essential to practice a little TLC when it comes to disease prevention, sun protection and avoidance of premature aging.  VeGALs are beautiful from the inside out!

My daily treatment:  

As a Vegan Girl AthLete (VeGAL) my fuel comes from plant-derived foods, including watercress, a super leaf!  Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin A, iron and calcium, I try to incorporate into my meals daily.  Luckily, watercress can be found in the produce section at both Publix AND Walmart, pre-washed in bags.  Both spicy and savory, this versatile dark, leafy green can be used in a crispy salad or wilted when tossed into a warm dish just before serving!  Never mind the classic high tea finger sandwich!  WATERCRESS...it's what's for dinner!

Hello.  I am new to blogging so please bear with me.  I want to introduce myself as creator of VeGAL: Vegan Girl AthLetes Unite!  I am developing a community of vegan female hard core athletes who maintain a "hard core" either through endurance or high-intensity fitness sports.  VeGALs are fueled by a plant-based diet coupled with strong convictions regarding the welfare of animals.  We are dedicated, passionate AND compassionate in all that we do.  By strictly adhering to an elevated philosophy, we are set apart from the rest yet we blend in with mainstream.  VeGALs are firmly planted!