tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7319977457924942362024-03-13T03:38:44.449-07:00VeGALVeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-8439167057572649662023-02-05T13:42:00.006-08:002023-02-05T14:04:22.038-08:00WHAT'S FOR DESSERT? NOTHING? DANG!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CIVN9A_FKmBnBeg6RKF8fCAg2nIcE6aUWuRs0DKVh6tQX_0umL56ZeLhW3T54Jh7hs4KhmFDHn-O2eCP_v_3VgI_melc34fwyXEkkpa0KhTcbaI49OD-VbpETDie9s5sOxBSSOMnxx6cVjCzhoPEYBFGEd5XsLJ5zIvbnkmSj2acMKtM7XK6zHR-qg/s4032/vegan%20donut.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3CIVN9A_FKmBnBeg6RKF8fCAg2nIcE6aUWuRs0DKVh6tQX_0umL56ZeLhW3T54Jh7hs4KhmFDHn-O2eCP_v_3VgI_melc34fwyXEkkpa0KhTcbaI49OD-VbpETDie9s5sOxBSSOMnxx6cVjCzhoPEYBFGEd5XsLJ5zIvbnkmSj2acMKtM7XK6zHR-qg/w162-h216/vegan%20donut.jpeg" width="162" /></a></div><p></p><p> <br />Greetings, fellow vegan foodies! It's been a minute! This issue has crossed my mind for a while now and while dining out the other night, it came to a head, prompting me to write about it in the hopes of bringing attention to this very important matter! WHERE ARE THE VEGAN DESSERTS??? While I personally don't have much of a sweet tooth, I do enjoy the occasional sweet treat while dining out, especially if I can share it with that special someone. Being vegan shouldn't mean that desserts are off limts! Recently, we were having a lovely dinner at an upscale local mediterranean restaurant where they have several vegan appetizers, soup, salad and entrees, yet there was not one vegan or vegan-available dessert to choose from among an extensive dessert menu. Had there been one, whether a light, refreshing one or a rich, decadent one, we would've loved the chance to indulge. I cannot tell you how many vegan-friendly restaurants, some even with a separate dedicated vegan menu, (as well as some 100% vegan restaurants ) stop short of offering vegan desserts. It makes no sense whatsoever!!! As much as I'm impressed at how far restaurants have come when offering vegan options, I'm amazed at how they just don't consider vegan desserts, not even one! NOT EVEN A FRUIT CUP OR SORBET! Furthermore, it takes such little effort to come up with something that could potentially satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. We're already taking the time to enjoy a night out, living in the moment while spending our hard-earned money, so it makes sense that we would want the chance to enjoy dessert! The profit margin could be HUGE! Plant-based ice creams are readily available as are vegan cookies, donuts and cupcakes, which are all relatively inexpensive. What about some natural fruit sorbet or vegan gelato topped with fresh fruit and some non-dairy whipped cream? How hard is that to make or outsource? I bet most folks wouldn't even mind paying a premium for the pleasure of being served a delicious "health-conscious" dessert. Vegan desserts aren't just for vegans but for those who may be lactose intolerant or have certain food allergies. In addition, by offering a "healthy" dessert, patrons will have less guilt when ordering. WHAT A MISSED OPPORTUNITY!</p><p> So... for all you passionate/compassionate restaurant owners/managers out there looking for ways to improve your business, why don't you start by offering VEGAN DESSERTS! You're welcome :)</p>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-10997157822092299502022-08-06T05:50:00.003-07:002022-08-06T06:17:06.841-07:00I Just Can't Get Enough!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgsb10cUvRrk1GGfkttohlNA2Ug_OMx21-NRVULcS6C6Yd_8o8zyQnjEQRk_kHNhRJrxsERnZCJ87bpZiWYXSUfTuEG_HK9V62Qhfhy4xgxwC8VNJPZ__nkcjgXvZpSpYpq3rdHrQjQGnLG8zjnC9LB2Umw__EkWG5Q8YwQbLlEY3oRI-ylt0qRPjuw/s2396/vegan%20cosmetics.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="2396" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHgsb10cUvRrk1GGfkttohlNA2Ug_OMx21-NRVULcS6C6Yd_8o8zyQnjEQRk_kHNhRJrxsERnZCJ87bpZiWYXSUfTuEG_HK9V62Qhfhy4xgxwC8VNJPZ__nkcjgXvZpSpYpq3rdHrQjQGnLG8zjnC9LB2Umw__EkWG5Q8YwQbLlEY3oRI-ylt0qRPjuw/w454-h193/vegan%20cosmetics.jpg" width="454" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b> Sadly, my morning runs have come to a screeching halt due to a freak accident! I was reluctant to run on the uneven sidewalk on the insistance of my running partner and wouldn't you know, 3 large rocks seemed to come out of nowhere and I ended up rolling my foot on one of them. I was in excruciating pain and instantly knew I had broken my foot. I was hoping for the best but unfortunately, my foot was getting worse, so I got an xray which confirmed I had a Jones Fracture. The Dr. gave me a boot and told me no exercise for at least 6 weeks and that I would probably have to wear this monstrosity for 8-10 weeks. As devastating as that news was, I was actually a little relieved that I didn't have to endure yet another brutal So Flo summer of outdoor training in the harshest of elements like extreme heat, opressive humidity and relentless sun exposure. Gone are the days of salty sweat-saturated hair, stinky, drenched clothing, chafing and advanced photo aging. Since thre's nothing I can essentially do but some upper body exercises and much waiting, I've decided to turn my circumstances into a positive by rejuvinating!</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b> As many of you know, I have been vegan for many years, which has included using only vegan cosmetics as well as skin and hair care products. To that end, it had been quite difficult to find available and affordable products throughout the years. I have adhered to PETA's cruelty-free company and product lists for many years, which had left me with very limited options. I would frequent Whole Foods to find beauty products at a hefty price, no less. I am delighted to say that at this moment, I am overwhelemed by how many companies have come around, offerering reasonably-priced quality items at either local drugstores, cosmetics chains (Sephora and Ulta) as well as online websites. Sometimes, I don't know where to start but I'm totally fine with that predicament. As much as we might be cruel to ourselves, especially those vegan athletes who work hard and train harder, we don't need to be cruel to animals just for our benefit.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Even if cosmetic/beauty companies aren't yet 100% cruelty free, we must still embrace their efforts and encourage them to forge ahead to hopefully one day become totally vegan!! Any effort is better than no effort at all!!! </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>So... while I am still recovering, I'm pampering myself with quality vegan products that I just can't seem to get enough of. I'm never turning back. I suggest you do the same šš</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>*Items pictured are just SOME of my MANY personal products š</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0ezv5FtUQS_wEadP2NowNFB8CxQSPVWO1gHXiETQD0-i4QpvMKGrXTU2mSkuIOQyDdzgl1dXyh2Q8LK7Rmbe3e2oMBNVK2dEZ4pXzfsK3WVj_qSAqJJFdJXU2nDlTTA30fUSeRAewtxfczJT1JTPgnWJnZx8atWXkgaFqEf_qUCe7EW5l5x0B4e8CQ/s2399/more%20cosmetics.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2134" data-original-width="2399" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0ezv5FtUQS_wEadP2NowNFB8CxQSPVWO1gHXiETQD0-i4QpvMKGrXTU2mSkuIOQyDdzgl1dXyh2Q8LK7Rmbe3e2oMBNVK2dEZ4pXzfsK3WVj_qSAqJJFdJXU2nDlTTA30fUSeRAewtxfczJT1JTPgnWJnZx8atWXkgaFqEf_qUCe7EW5l5x0B4e8CQ/w219-h194/more%20cosmetics.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvhdjoXRM7o7e5mcAZXH9CcY5Y99_s6ZlZhhyd7NWHZU_XkHEkMjHbv5lt3AqhCrN_QEIvTc6y0H4k0AXthY3Pp2Dh62GrPrS5erQm3y4jCNUMU3Qr9saTL3dB3RxtU5rMqhvBWq4mnvriWDbbOXeUqVjWf8hr18XJZZGRY7dHK55D_5brp_0HdCXq6Q/s1465/TD%20watermelon.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1465" data-original-width="703" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvhdjoXRM7o7e5mcAZXH9CcY5Y99_s6ZlZhhyd7NWHZU_XkHEkMjHbv5lt3AqhCrN_QEIvTc6y0H4k0AXthY3Pp2Dh62GrPrS5erQm3y4jCNUMU3Qr9saTL3dB3RxtU5rMqhvBWq4mnvriWDbbOXeUqVjWf8hr18XJZZGRY7dHK55D_5brp_0HdCXq6Q/s320/TD%20watermelon.jpg" width="154" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><p></p>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-90034628976212377412022-04-29T05:43:00.008-07:002022-05-11T08:52:41.241-07:00Don't Say Vegan<p><b> </b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VYfTToVXtB4-NHnwZ7U62v_tErtCwgQX8WvZWJfyJFocMZcmpN4KihtyZ7lPWZtzD7EODPsYh-dgtG_eCklOap3wex81cu1dtEdBYj5It0fsF7V1_JVP-5eMg72VmbtooyUA3EDJPzHrKpeCGDHmSqE2az-dmbzS-Rq0MOIt5e9riC9l3eJEalr8kQ/s474/vegan%20symbols.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="474" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VYfTToVXtB4-NHnwZ7U62v_tErtCwgQX8WvZWJfyJFocMZcmpN4KihtyZ7lPWZtzD7EODPsYh-dgtG_eCklOap3wex81cu1dtEdBYj5It0fsF7V1_JVP-5eMg72VmbtooyUA3EDJPzHrKpeCGDHmSqE2az-dmbzS-Rq0MOIt5e9riC9l3eJEalr8kQ/s320/vegan%20symbols.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p><i><b>Vegan, Vegan, Vegan</b>!!! We went from not knowing the word, or at least not knowing how to pronounce it, to seeing it just about everywhere (menus, foods, products). As a long-time vegan, when all that we had to eat was lettuce, bread and tofu, I'm pleased to see how far we've come in recognizing the importance of plant-based living. However, I'm starting to feel like it may be overkill to some degree. Although many folks appreciate veganism and some have gone so far as to embrace a vegan lifestyle, there are still those skeptics that just haven't come around yet. I find it hilarious when I hear people say, "I've never eaten vegan food before." I guess they've never eaten fruit, vegetables, beans, nuts, whole grains, potatoes, etc. lol. Although I am unwavering in my commitment to being vegan, the choice doesn't have to be binary- vegan vs non-vegan. Just like anything else, learning about veganism is a gradual process that I feel should NOT be rushed. In fact, going 100% vegan for some may be a bit too extreme. I'm just happy if people can make an effort to be more plant based. Any effort is better than no effort at all. That being said, we must be careful not to shove it in people's faces, as it can be very off putting, to say the least. In all my years, I have always been conscientious of not judging or lecturing people or making them feel guilty for their dietary choices. On the flip side, as many of you know from past posts, I have been teased, bullied and ridiculed for my cruelty-free choices. I have always taken the high road, choosing to lead by example. </i></p><p><i> In my experience as a vegan living in mainstream society (should anyone in the restaurant business read this post), LESS IS MORE! Rather than labeling particular items, have a small V/VA/VO label/symbol (vegan available/vegan optional) so that vegans/vegetarians can quickly scroll down to them. Many dishes happen to be naturally vegan, so when a non-vegan comes across them, they may order a particular item without even thinking whether it's vegan or not. I know that my dad is terrified of foods boldly labeled "vegan," even if he loves all the ingredients. I can guarantee you that his eyes will skip right over an item if it's labeled "vegan." However, vegans can recognize that something is vegan without the labels. If the abbreviations appear, then it reassures us that it's "safe." If you are a vegan like me, you will just simply just ask before ordering for clarification. Vegans know how to study the menu, ask questions and make informed decisions on their own. Many menu items that aren't labeled at all can actually be "veganized," so just to be sure, ask your server is it's possible. Another piece of advice I would offer is to POLITELY request that your server ask the kitchen staff for confirmation that an item is indeed vegan, should the server not be sure. Servers aim to please, usually, and want to make the customer happy. They also enjoy learning something new so that they can be prepared for the next vegan patron. Sometimes I get lazy or careless (vegan burnout) and quickly order something without further "investigation." It never gets old when a server lets me know that the fryer isn't dedicated or that the dressing has honey/dairy in it, when I make it known that I'm vegan. Much appreciated!!!</i></p><p><i> We recently went to visit our children who live in Tennessee. We went to a breakfast place called Milk & Honey in Chattanooga, which was very vegan friendly. The menu had a small VO label on several items so, of course, I was thrilled and even had a hard time deciding. When we were looking at the porridge bowl, it was labeled VO but as we read the description, every ingredient was vegan. The server confirmed that the item was vegan but rather than the big in-your-face VEGAN word, which could steer folks clear, they added a very subtle VO, as they did with several other items. It was then that I realized how clever that was to have a little label/symbol next to an item that most customers won't notice but those who prefer vegan/vegetarian foods will understand and appreciate :) I would be remiss if I didn't mention the restaurant "Cashew," also in Chattanooga and 100% plant based, so...NO LABELS NEEDED (except gluten/nut free lol)!! It's complete nirvana when we find a vegan-dedicated cafe/restaurant where the only thing we have to worry about is having to choose from a plethora of delicious options as well as saving room for dessert!!</i></p><p><i> The word "vegan" is on its way to being a household name. In a perfect world, everything would be plant based and cruelty free where we can do away with labels altogether! It's remarkable to see just how many vegan-dedicated restaurants are popping up all around us. They are still few and far between so in the meantime, let's just celebrate how easy it is to find mainstream restaurants that can accommodate us with a variety of noteworthy vegan options! Don't SAY vegan...just do it!</i></p>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-59057211480825664832021-07-10T15:31:00.003-07:002023-02-05T13:01:16.249-08:00CAUTION: Products May Appear More Vegan Than They Are!I don't know about you but I can definitely say that I have officially arrived at label fatigue!!! Upon entering the world of veganism decades ago (I just aged myself lol) I began participating in the daunting task of reading and interpreting labels on consumer products to ensure all ingredients were devoid of animal products, meaning they were cruelty free (not necessary plant based). I have watched over the years how society as a whole has come to accept vegans into mainstream society, with new products popping up at markets on the daily. In addition, plant-based menu options are becoming readily available at fast-casual eateries as well as even the most unlikely of restaurants. Vegan-dedicated joints are also sprouting up more and more. I can honestly say I am thrilled to see this happening today, since I was teased and made to feel like a freak or outcast more times than I care to remember over the years. Veganism is so familiar now that I have become somewhat lax about grocery shopping, assuming at first glance that many products are vegan when in fact, they actually contain some kind of unsuspecting animal product (grrrr). With so many tasty and satisfying foods being plant-based and/or cruelty free (including SOME vegan cheeses), it begs the question, WHY??? WHY must I discover animal products in my otherwise vegan products and WHY must I always have to read the fine print (I often forget my glasses)??? I'm fortunate that I don't have any allergies so if I am careless and don't bother reading packages, labels or ingredients, should I consume honey, milk, whey protein, eggs or even dehydrated chicken, it wouldn't result in anything life threatening, just feeling like an idiot! My advice to you would be not to become complacent. Don't be lured by the flashy packaging or plant-friendly words. For the most part, products mean what they say. To be certain, trust but verify. Skip down to the line following the ingredients where it says "contains" or "may contain traces of...". Take a few minutes and make sure you have your reading glasses on you and do your due diligence... for the sake of the animals!!! Fortunately, there are plenty of 100% vegan alternatives to choose from where you don't have to settle for those products from companies that just couldn't help themselves. Should you care to take it one step further, feel free to contact such companies to "plant" the idea of substituting plant-based alternatives in place of their current animal ones. You'd be surprised...many folks either just don't know or don't exactly have faith in the integrity of vegan ingredients. I would venture to say they may be willing to try. It's worth a shot...we can't give up in our quest to become a cruelty-free society.<div><br /></div><div>Here are just some examples of some products I "fell" for which contain animal ingredients. Please feel free to comment below to add to this list. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o_xq7Qkwqa4/YOod1CZ_JsI/AAAAAAAALWE/QTsv3WjhpZUjAvhGDPwlS_d2jg1eVOt0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3342%2B%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o_xq7Qkwqa4/YOod1CZ_JsI/AAAAAAAALWE/QTsv3WjhpZUjAvhGDPwlS_d2jg1eVOt0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3342%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSJU64m6kWA/YOod44bHjBI/AAAAAAAALWI/KknCrc1NNUwXgv8792HQ8OGrIBhyv2ZPACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSJU64m6kWA/YOod44bHjBI/AAAAAAAALWI/KknCrc1NNUwXgv8792HQ8OGrIBhyv2ZPACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3348.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHyPhEito-M/YOod8ckYvtI/AAAAAAAALWM/ihjSyIWhtS80s3uRtT46jI9njdaiSroyACLcBGAsYHQ/s1145/IMG_3349.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1145" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHyPhEito-M/YOod8ckYvtI/AAAAAAAALWM/ihjSyIWhtS80s3uRtT46jI9njdaiSroyACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3349.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-urEwzXeUH8M/YOod_SPDZRI/AAAAAAAALWQ/hGl7PEUB9UUaWiUBXOWe3Zg-vXZQIktLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s938/IMG_3350.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="938" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-urEwzXeUH8M/YOod_SPDZRI/AAAAAAAALWQ/hGl7PEUB9UUaWiUBXOWe3Zg-vXZQIktLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3350.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHzIEoiVUJs/YOoeDG47ZVI/AAAAAAAALWU/HZOcmy4w1lIUx2cp3jIAgflnp_4Oh8tOACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3391.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1775" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHzIEoiVUJs/YOoeDG47ZVI/AAAAAAAALWU/HZOcmy4w1lIUx2cp3jIAgflnp_4Oh8tOACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3391.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-br4QQTroCoY/YOoeHIXpBpI/AAAAAAAALWc/q6fxevTALIktuT8X0iP861qafXt6G2jZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/unnamed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-br4QQTroCoY/YOoeHIXpBpI/AAAAAAAALWc/q6fxevTALIktuT8X0iP861qafXt6G2jZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/unnamed.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7CSUGmSPBw/YOs2TXSpAgI/AAAAAAAALWo/f7feDhzNo8MZrYkG3tRHWFG0QF9kw4tHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7CSUGmSPBw/YOs2TXSpAgI/AAAAAAAALWo/f7feDhzNo8MZrYkG3tRHWFG0QF9kw4tHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/unnamed.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-23863306849476300472019-02-18T14:52:00.000-08:002019-02-18T14:52:13.240-08:00Is There Butter in My Quinoa???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2sLj2nAKBA/XDJ3pLY5spI/AAAAAAAAGa0/7lt0OCaG0ysYgFuTWmWLeEDjShfocscRQCLcBGAs/s1600/no-butter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2sLj2nAKBA/XDJ3pLY5spI/AAAAAAAAGa0/7lt0OCaG0ysYgFuTWmWLeEDjShfocscRQCLcBGAs/s1600/no-butter.jpg" /></a></div>
Oops, they did it again!!! They just couldn't help themselves! Throwing animal products in purely plant foods seems to be the trend lately that chefs/food preppers have a hard time veering from. The good news is that if you are anything like me, your taste buds have become so refined that you can detect hidden animal products such as butter, chicken broth or beef stock upon first bite!!! Many chefs are under the false notion that adding such animal ingredients enhances the flavor of vegetables, grains, soups, etc.. I personally feel that this mindset has the opposite effect- those ingredients actually take away from the unique flavors and subtle nuances that plant foods have to offer. In my opinion, many food prep peeps lack either creativity, experience or self confidence when presented with the challenge of preparing flavorful and artful cuisine when they resort to using animal products in the process. In other words...it's a cop out!!!<br />
I won't soon forget my recent experience at an upscale coffee shop/grill in our very own neighborhood. I was so excited to try a protein bowl made with quinoa and vegetables. Naturally, I asked them to omit the feta cheese as well as the egg on top (feta/eggs seem to be on everything from quinoa bowls to salads and avocado toast). When I then asked if I could customize my bowl, the employee was happy to accommodate me. I don't always like to identify myself as a "vegan" but rather request that my order be made with no animal products used due to allergies to ensure those ingredients are left out. I added avocado, lettuce and pumpkin seeds and almonds to my bowl without a fuss. As my family and I awaited our brunch items (I'm the only vegan), my bowl finally arrived and looked scrumptious. As everyone dug in with glee, I quickly realized after I took a giant spoonful that my quinoa had been adulterated with butter and I honestly didn't know what to do. As to not gross everyone out, I gulped it down and called the waitress over. Luckily, I really don't have any food allergies so non-vegan ingredients won't kill me lol. I didn't want to draw attention to myself (which is typically unavoidable by merely being vegan) and simply asked that she speak with the kitchen to see if butter was added to my dish. Much to my dismay, it was and there I was again...finding myself having to send my dish back and wait for them to prepare it correctly WITHOUT animal products grrrrā¦.. <br />
By the time I got my newly-prepared bowl, my company had finished their meals and I was left to finish up while everyone watched. What a drastic improvement on taste- the natural nutty flavor of quinoa shone through to my delight!! I didn't need to say anything- it was apparent that I had my very own happy meal!!! I'm that kind of vegan that prefers to be subtle and never draw attention to myself. If you've read any of my other blogs, you will know that I aspire to inspire by example and not my preaching. As with anything else, like religion and politics, no one wants to be told what to do or how to conduct their lives and by doing so, you will only turn people off. I just want to live my life, plant based and cruelty free and it should be no one's business or issue. How hard can it be to leave off animal products from foods from nature? Apparently, VERY!!! <br />
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<br />VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-32506919301709975202018-06-02T16:14:00.000-07:002018-06-02T16:14:25.925-07:00Cheese Louise!!!<br />
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When looking for plant-based options whether dining out or shopping for prepared foods, what is the deal with cheese on just about um, let's see...EVERYTHING??? I get it...we have been brainwashed to believe that cheese is delicious and we can't live without it! After all, it's rich, creamy, salty, hearty, substantial, flavorful, gooey, meltable, versatile and the list goes on and on. We have, in essence, created a society of serious cheese dependency!!! But, as we all know, it's also high in fat and cholesterol not to mention it is derived from an animal!!! Overwhelming cheese consumption definitely contributes to the increase in obesity and heart disease, among other diseases within our population. I totally understand that the struggle to give it up altogether is real when transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle. For me personally, it wasn't that difficult to give it up in my quest to be healthy and cruelty free. Once I transitioned from vegetarian to vegan, I noticed that food began to taste better!! Much to my chagrin, after many years of being a mainstream vegan, I just can't seem to get away from random cheese that seems to be thrown into otherwise perfectly balanced plant-based meals at just about every freaking food joint for no good reason at all!!! Chefs, cooks and food preparers continually fall short. They can't seem to help themselves when it comes to creating and serving healthy, nutritionally complete meals sans animal products. It's as if they feel like something is missing..."oh yeah, let's throw some cheese on it..yeah! Now we're talking!!" They recognize the call to include healthier, veg-friendly options but their brains won't allow them so accept something unfamiliar or foreign. Somehow they are not convinced that there is enough protein or that something is still missing. Cheese seems to bring it all home for those who don't really get it. "Ahhh...now THAT makes sense." <br />
The common misconception, as we all know by now, is that vegans don't get enough protein (where do you get your protein from- ugh!!!) So I suppose to non-vegans, the answer would be cheese so why not throw it on anything and everything whether it's healthy or junky. The biggest problem for me besides the obvious one is that rather than enhancing dishes, cheese takes away from the subtle nuances that plant-based ingredients have to offer. It's like taking fresh, innovative ingredients from nature and completely adulterating them. This cheese culture, if you will, seems to be getting stronger and we must band together from near and far to convince chefs from around the world that cheese is not needed on plant foods!!! In all fairness, I must say that I have encountered quite a few places both locally and during travel where chefs have been enlightened and do go that extra mile to accommodate vegan patrons far beyond a basic salad or quinoa bowl. Some even take the time to make substantial house-made vegan burgers but "shocker" they might slap a slice of real cheese on it or even worse...throw it on a non-vegan bun! <br />
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One trendy appetizer which falls victim to cheese invasion is avocado toast. From local coffee shops and bistros to chain restaurants, it seems they all have their own version of these delightful little morsels and if we're lucky, they consist of a slice of toasted French baguette with lightly mashed ripe avocado, basil or arugula, heirloom tomatoes and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze. But, don't be surprised if some random cheese is thrown on like feta or parmesan which only takes away from the sweet and creamy avocado. Kinda makes you think...what are they trying to hide? Most food servers are happy to leave the cheese off. This one local coffee shop owner who serves this item with mozzarella cheese on top recently told me that many customers ask him to leave the cheese off. When I asked him why he uses it in the first place, he couldn't even give me a reasonable explanation. That's because there is none!!!</div>
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By now we are all aware of quinoa its many benefits so it's no wonder we are starting to see quinoa bowls pop up on menus with lots of veggie toppings, including....you guessed it... CHEESE!!! Ugh!! At least it's not chicken (although there are plenty of those around)!!! How silly, when you think about it, when food preps create a beautiful bowl with bountiful veggies, fruit, nuts and legumes only to be corrupted by a pedestrian mainstream ingredient (this time it's from a goat) which adds zero nutritional value to an otherwise complete protein meal (quinoa alone contains all 9 amino acids). I give Wawa a lot of credit for preparing many different salads and bowls to go but unfortunately, the one I want has one ingredient too much. Same goes for the red quinoa bowl from Yard House with feta thrown in the mix. Oh the humanity!!!</div>
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Being vegan doesn't always mean always eating healthy. Sure, we are more evolved than most but we are still human and can enjoy a little splurge from time to time, especially if we are athletic or very active. By default, many junk foods just happen to be vegan like French fries and tater tots, that is, if they are cooked in a dedicated vegetable oil fryer. Truffle fries/tots are all the rage these days but wouldn't you know, they are typically topped with parmesan cheese shreds which personally, I think add absolutely nothing to the spuds!!! If you start with good ingredients like fresh potatoes topped with quality truffle oil, there's no need for cheese!!! Perhaps a sprinkle of chopped parsley and maybe a little roasted minced garlic is really all you need. I get it...truffle fries are a departure from the old cheese fries with processed Velveeta sauce but it sure would be nice to exclude cheese altogether! If one must have a dusting or sprinkling of a cheese-like substance to feel complete then luckily, Follow Your Heart makes vegan parmesan style shreds. For the love of fries around the world, let's all see if we can school the chefs to look into keeping this viable product on hand. I doubt anyone would know the difference!</div>
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As I wrap this baby up, I don't want readers to think that I'm bitter or hostile in any way. I believe my non-vegan counterparts (just about everyone in my life btw) and I can coexist peacefully. I suppose I'm simply frustrated that just when I think we have made some serious progress in our quest for society to adopt a more plant-based lifestyle, I feel that meat-eaters are here to stay. Fine... let them have their meat! But for goodness sake, just don't taint our glorious plant foods with animal products. In all fairness, many chefs have indeed come a long way in discovering new ways to prepare vegan dishes to appeal not just to vegans. However, they seem to hesitate in allowing themselves to coax the naturally occurring subtle nuances found in those treasured gems courtesy mother nature. As a group, we need to continue our work within the mainstream restaurant setting to ensure we have plenty of vegan options wherever we choose to dine. I dream of the day when I can simply glance at a menu filled with healthy choices without having to always scream on the inside...CHEESE LOUISE!!!</div>
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-14916467476948711742018-04-07T12:12:00.001-07:002018-04-07T12:12:06.487-07:00Is it Me or is it Just Meat???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you are a mainstream vegan like me, then I'm sure you have faced similar situations where you are dining out with family/friends at a typical restaurant with some vegan options and you have wondered...is everyone ordering a VERY meaty dish because they really want it or are they doing it just to spite you??? You might say I'm being a bit paranoid but I swear that sometimes the folks around me are deliberately ordering the meatiest dish they can find just to get a reaction from me. Mind you, I'm not one of those outspoken, bordering on obnoxious vegans always preaching or lecturing everyone about the health risks involving red meat. I almost NEVER extoll the virtues of a plant-based diet or remind everyone of the recent report from the World Health Organization linking red meat to cancer. In fact, I consider myself the easiest going vegan I know!!! I usually just go with the flow, not asking for much, happy to be in good company, hoping to find a healthy, hearty plant-based option and a nice IPA on draft or a cool and refreshing lo cal cocktail to wash it down with. I try to stay low key and not make a big deal about the menu options (or lack thereof) or brag about the meal I choose to order. Even when they get my order wrong, which is almost always, I try not to make it an issue! I even go so far as to inconspicuously tell my food server that I am lactose intolerant or have specific food allergies instead of declaring myself VEGAN! SO... why is it that those around me feel the need to turn a fun, casual get-together into a meat-centric lesson. With so many healthier alternatives that aren't vegan/vegetarian, like fish, shellfish or even chicken breast, I have noticed that my dining companions are so obvious and go right in for the kill by choosing dishes like a huge rack of ribs or lamb, steak salad (OMG, the irony) or a gigantic rib eye! <br />
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Two of my three kids thoroughly enjoy red meat but I know that they do not intentionally try to get a rise out of me when we go out to eat. It's not their fault that they have been brainwashed by the industry's false advertising as well as their crafty, manipulative way of convincing everyone that animal flesh is delicious. My kids also feel very comfortable being themselves around me without worrying about me judging them. I do hope one day my healthy choices will rub off on them but my choice to go vegan was my own and imposing my views on them would only backfire, I'm sure. <br />
When it comes to my domestic partner's adult children, however, who we visit with from time to time, I get the feeling that their intentions are different but again, I may just be imagining it. When I observe the abundantly meaty options they choose, at every meal, no less, I cannot help but feel they are doing it to make me squirm. On top of that, the subject always turns to meat with a reference to an old family animal flesh recipe guaranteed to be thrown into the mix. They are just waiting for my head to explode. When I address this with my partner, he insists that the only reason they are ordering the meatiest, most expensive dishes is because he is paying! I would bet that he's right (he always is lol). It's just that when I am with educated folks, their behavior always surprises me as we continue to learn more and more about the never-ending benefits of a plant-based diet and all the health risks involved with animal products from heart disease, cancer, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, not to mention cruelty to animals as well as the direct impact on global warming. <br />
So when I say it's me, my partner says it's just meat. He tries to convince me that meat is a treat. Whatever the case may be, I will simply try and keep my cool, no matter what my dining companions directly or indirectly throw at me. Being the butt of vegan jokes has become so old and tired, am I right??? I have evolved and it's only a matter of time before everyone else does too. I know that's wishful thinking but I'm not giving up. At least the word "vegan" is being thrown around a lot more, with vegan options becoming more available in mainstream restaurants not to mention dedicated vegan restaurants popping up in major cities. Perhaps there will come a time when the world is mostly plant based with the exception of that one unenlightened, unevolved odd ball here and there asking if there are any meat options available. <br />
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<br />VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-84151458852341929092015-07-16T10:29:00.003-07:002015-07-18T10:50:50.576-07:00Clean Running- A Survival Kit <span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Greetings fellow VeGALs and fans! Every summer I swear it's the hottest one ever and that's when I swear off fall marathon training for good...that is, until the next year. So here I am, regretfully having kick started my training for a series of fall marathons once again. I swear I must be a glutton for punishment but what choice do I have? The fact is, as brutal and punishing as the months can be leading up to a busy race schedule, if I didn't have anything on the calendar, I fear I would turn into a fat blob! Let's not forget how yummy and potentially fattening plant-based foods/alcohol can be. As a vegan foodie, there is no way I could ever "swear off" plant-based cuisine despite any decrease in physical activity. Thus, the dreaded fall marathon training is a must. As a "survival kit" of sorts, I have come up with a phrase I refer to as "clean running," a method I believe all runners, not just VeGALs, should adopt to ease the transition and help combat the harsh elements associated with the summer months leading up to our wonderful and rewarding fall events.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Clean running starts from the inside out, from head to toe, from your nutrition to your outerwear, from how you look to how you sound as well as how you carry yourself. Clean running means going that extra mile to represent runners in a most positive light. It means inspiring others to do the same. Clean running doesn't necessarily mean you will magically feel better while training in the extreme heat and humidity but it can mean the difference between challenging vs. disaster. Clean running is a state of mind which leads to an awesome state of body. As I have quoted in the past..."To look good is to feel good and you look mahvelous!"</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Let's start from within and address nutrition. When you think of clean, think of clean-burning fuel, and by that I mean whole foods, plant-based as much as possible! How can anything else be "clean" if it is derived from animal sources??? As we all have learned by now, digesting animal products can be very taxing on our organs, possibly leading to disease and/or medical complications. With such a wealth of plant-based pre/during/post workout energy drinks, gels and snacks, why try anything else? May I suggest Vega Sport, Genuine Health Vegan Proteins/ActivFuel+, Sun Warrior, Nuun, coconut water, Fuel 100 Electro-bites, Pro Bar Bolt, Gu, Cliff Shots and Gels, Hammer Gel, Pocket Fuel, Salt Sticks/S-Caps and Drip Drop. Wow...that's a lot!!! Even if you're not completely plant-based, why not use natural fuel sources for increased bioavailibilty/digestibility rather than animal-based/artificial counterparts? Clean products help you to maximize efficiency, aid in recovery and reduce fatigue after a long hot run! Better for you, the enviroment AND the animals!!! If you typically run with a water bottle, especially in hotter months, why not make it a reusable handheld one that is contoured to fit comfortably in your palm, as an extension of you. Ones by Amphipod and Nathan are both affordable and ergonomic, with pockets provided for your Nuun tablets, gels, money, keys or even your cel phone. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Next up...hygiene. Just because you look like you just stepped out of the shower after less than a mile into your run doesn't mean you shouldn't be clean before heading out. I don't mean shower right before, but do a quick rinse the late afternoon or night before so you are still basically fresh prior to hitting the stifling, pea soup air. Note that showering/bathing too often can deplete the skin of natural oils as well as good bacteria. Being clean does NOT mean dousing yourself with perfume or cologne to mask your natural scent. Perfume can be offensive, even suffocating, especially if you are running with others. Clean running means being considerate of others. Clean means just that...CLEAN, from skin, to hair and body parts so that when you do start to sweat, you might stink a little bit but you won't reek. Hairy armpits...gross! More hair equals more trouble! Truth be told, I struggle with mainstream anti-persperants/deoderants vs the healthy, natural ones...the latter never seem to work for me, especially with the amount I sweat and the region where I reside (I'm a "schvitzer" from way back). I'm willing to risk my health a bit for the sake of humanity! Hairy legs, not cool...ever (unless you are a Ve-dude)! As for the hair on your head, a little dirt doesn't hurt and is actually beneficial (overwashing can be damaging) for a run as long as it doesn't smell nasty...just dab a little conditioner or leave-in product with SPF and neatly tie it back before heading out the door. And don't forget your hat and sunglasses, not to mentiion the waterproof/sweatproof sunblock if the sun is unavoidable, for added protection. I recommend natural, cruelty-free products from companies like Kiss My Face, Jason or Alba Botanika. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The clothes make the girl, right? I don't mean the fancier/pricier the better but rather the cleaner, neater and matching the better! Whether running alone or with a group, once you put on fresh, clean, comfortable technical apparel, you are already one step ahead of the game. Clean running means clean lines and sleek designs, paving the way to streamline running. The better the fit, the better your performance. In addition... the more you cover, the less problems you will have in terms of sun damage, dehydration and chafing.</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Running with just a job bra and shorts for VeGALs and shirtless for Ve-dudes is not advisable on long runs since it can lead to overexposure to the elements. Lightweight, dry-fit clothing can keep you cooler and dryer rather than running essentially "naked. " Ill-fitting clothes, either too snug or too loose, can lead to added chafing. And speaking of chafing...If you struggle with this issue, why not give Uberlube (found online on Amazon or Walgreens) a try? This silky, non-greasy, odorless, scentless and tasteless product is all the rage! It's made with friendly, inert ingredients. This quality lubricant can also be used for other creative activities, wink wink. What a great investment</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> It's true that running apparel can be very costly but as long as you wash them with naturally-sourced, biodegradeable detergents like Method or Seventh Generation and avoid the dryer, your hallowed running clothes will last through several seasons. Before throwing out a very stinky, expensive running bra, try adding distilled vinegar to the rinse cycle. I recommend shopping online at Oiselle or Lululemon in the sale or "we made too much" section for your running apparel. Road Runner Sports (RRS) also has a wide variety to fit your needs with great VIP discounts and sales. </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Once you know your size, who cares if you buy last season's stuff at half price!</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I like to buy Moving Comfort's running skorts made with recycled water bottles and coffee grounds at RRS. I also like the durability as well as the selection that Brooks has to offer. On very long runs, you may wish to pack a clean outfit/fresh shoes to change into midway through your run to avoid the inevitable stinkage (which could ultimately get you kicked out of your local running club) or serious chafing (which gives way to screaming in the shower once the hot water hits your burned flesh- OUCH!).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> We've covered head so let's jump down to toes...running shoes, that is! The rule of thumb is to change your shoes every 3 months or so, depending on your mileage. Wearing nasty old running shoes is not only a turn off but can be associated with several types of running injuries if the soles are worn down too much. You may wish to alternate shoes, depending on the type of workout, to extend the life of your fave pair. BOGOs can be available either online or at your local store so stock up whenever possible! Your shoes may not be worn out just yet but they can still stink to high heaven in which case I suggest tossing them in a delicate wash cycle and letting them air dry. A trick my running partner suggests is after a hot and sweaty run when your shoes are water-logged, try stuffing them with newspapers and storing them in a cool, dry place for a day or two. Carry a pair of flip flops to change into immediately after your run to air out your shoes as well as your stinky feet. If all else fails, there's always Febreeze!!! </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Another aspect of clean running beyond your nutrition and overall appearance is your voice! If you are running with others, make sure to keep your volume down to avoid distracting others as well as annoying neighbors in nearby residential areas. In addition, be careful of content and try to avoid adult or awkward topics that may make random passers by uncomfortable. Watch out for language that may be inappropriate for younger runners, especially during family-oriented race events. Control sudden outburts of laughter or swear words, if you can. To that end, if you listen to music and like to sing along, be mindful of the volume...if the music is too loud, then your voice will automatically be too loud. Rule of thumb...music should be kept at a soft enough volume so that you can still have a conversation as well as hear ambient noise (safety first). The newest annoyance out there is cel phone music playlists on speaker, especially at races. Ughhh...that's so rude! YOUR taste is NOT MY TASTE and I DON'T want to hear your crappy music!!! I'm not trying to take all the fun out of running (if you know me then you know my fowl mouth lol). I am merely suggesting that you show some tact and decorum out there (I should take my own advice). Others may not, but you will be proud of yourself when you show some class while you kick some ass!!!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> And finally, there's running style to address, which is essentially, how you put everything together to make yourself a clean, mean running machine!!! Of course, running is a very individual sport, but there are some common characteristics/principles that runners try to adopt such as good posture, form and stride. As much as we strive to be as efficient as possible, we cannot help but incorporate our own natural style into every step we take, thus making us a little more prone to injury. As long as it works for you then don't worry about fixing it. However, there are those instances where a runner should question their gait at which point, their running economy may be compromised. My biggest pet peeve on the road is hearing a fellow runner scrape or "shuffle" one or both feet. The occasional scrape is okay- I even do it from time to time, kind of like a wake up call to switch gears or step it up. But there are those runners out there who desperately need to listen to their own sound and re-adjust their gait, if applicable. Clean running means QUIET running, not scraping your feet like nails on a chalk board!!! Clean running means being able to sneak up on runners ahead of you who never heard you coming! That's always fun. My running partner and I like to amuse ourselves and rate runners passing by in terms of degree of shuffling on a scale from 1 to 10. Sounds a bit childish bordering on cruel, I know. But all that noise can really be bothersome to us, especially when we are trying to escape, clear our heads and relax on the road. If you think you might be a shuffler then ask yourself if your shoes are right for you. Perhaps you are a heel striker and those big clunky heel to to drop shoes aren't ideal for you. Shoes with more fore/midfoot support may help you to get off those heels. Maybe you are leaning too much to one side. I'm not exactly sure what causes the shuffling, I do NOT claim to be an expert. But common sense tells me that if you are making lots of noise while running, then something might be wrong. Landing too hard is another pet peeve of mine. Think of being light on your feet, like floating through the air, to reduce all the extra pounding/wear and tear. Maybe you need more cushioning, or perhaps less. I recommend looking into a Chi Running course which can help tweak your form, reduce injury and maximize your running efficiency. Clean running also means arms are comfortably by your side, loose and relaxed, not flailing. You certainly don't want to wack someone as you pass them! Or do you? (I feel like that sometimes lol) Keeping your head slightly lowered while bringing your arms in and keeping them close to your body makes you a more aerodynamic runner, enabling you to move through the thick, hummus-like air with ease (just keep telling yourself that).</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> So there you have it...your survival kit to becoming a clean runner! Pretty simple, huh? Clean running is just the survival kit you need to get through the summer and achive success throughout the year. If you can put all the pieces together as you put yourself out there, you will represent all runners in a very positive light, which will hopefully inspire both new and existing runners to do the same, giving way to a more courteous and respectful running community overall. To sum it up, clean running is how you prepare as well as present yourself as a runner, from head to toe, from the inside out, from how your move through space and how you win the race! </span><br />
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<br />VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-8847338105597631792015-05-20T14:24:00.002-07:002015-05-27T15:25:17.100-07:00The Dreaded DNF<span style="color: #38761d;"> Long time no see, VeGAL. Wasn't feeling inspired there for a while. Still not too enthusiastic at the moment but starting to turn the corner. Rather than write about a fantastic race event, where everything seemed to go just right, I've decided to share a bad, if not deeply sad moment in time with my readers to let 'yall know that not every race goes as planned...not even close!!! From elite athletes to the novice participant, a DNF, aka Did Not Finish, can strike at any time! It's something we fear, an occurrence we dread, and most definitely try to avoid at all costs! But should it happen, go with it, deal with it and be done with it!!! I am struggling to take my own advice so please bear with me as I take this cathartic journey in accepting my first DNF which took place down in the Florida Keys last Saturday at the Keys100 50k race.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> As many of you know, I ran the Keys 50-miler last year, and things went better than planned!!! In fact, my finishing time far exceeded my expectations due to the unseasonable cool front that blew in the day before, leaving the air a little cooler and dryer. Don't get me wrong, it was very tough but looking back, especially today, I would do it all over again. In fact, I had wanted to do the Keys 100-miler in the forseeable future but due to time constraints as well as my running partner's busy work schedule, I thought it best to delay it for a few years. So when I casually mentioned to my partner that the race had added a 50k event, he was all over it and signed us up straight away. I was less than excited to learn that the race was to start at 1 pm, the hottest time of the day, in the middle of May, not less. Realizing that that cool front last year was a freak thing, I was pretty damn sure it wouldn't happen again. And...indeed it didn't!!!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wbtj3XVa7e0/VVzZ2ncMn9I/AAAAAAAABSY/3P3Itj2RR2A/s1600/getting%2Bready%2Bin%2Bhotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wbtj3XVa7e0/VVzZ2ncMn9I/AAAAAAAABSY/3P3Itj2RR2A/s200/getting%2Bready%2Bin%2Bhotel.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE-P-U1r95E/VVzZ8fsyVBI/AAAAAAAABSg/HEopZSAqRcA/s1600/during%2Bat%2Bbaby%2527s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TE-P-U1r95E/VVzZ8fsyVBI/AAAAAAAABSg/HEopZSAqRcA/s200/during%2Bat%2Bbaby%2527s.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> Thinking that doing a race in Key West would be a nice little excursion, an excuse to get away, my partner insisted we go but in all honesty, I truly believe he was looking to prove something to himself, perhaps some redemption from a previous 50k race that turned out to be very physically challenging to him as he suffered extreme nausea. I totally get that...we all want that second (or third ) chance, especialy ultra runners who by our very nature, tend to be a "bit" OCD, haha. So I obliged him and off we went to conquer the Keys, minus any miraculous cool front. Tried as I might to be optimistic, I remained apprehensive about the 50k, right up until we toed the line. From the start, the heat was oppressive, where I could hardly catch my breath. It's as if the gates of hell opened up and said "come on in?" And to make matterts worse, a side cramp kicked in to boot, ugh. My partner, on the other hand, was ready and eager to beat the odds! In fact, I could barely keep up with him! So we forged ahead, trying to stay cool and steady. Nutritionally speaking, I stayed true to my vegan regimen, although not all my fuel would be considered "healthy"...Vega Sport Pre-workout drink, Salt Stick caps, Fuel 100 Electro-bites, Drip Drop powder, pretzels, Fritos and ginger ale...not too much at one time. I always say, "less is more." My partner, who vowed not to overload on sugar this time as it apprears to be his nauseau trigger, ended up overdosing on Drip Drop, not realizing it contained high amounts of sugar, unbeknownst to him. In addition, he took in 1 1/2 Hammer Gels (without me looking) and I remember cramming ginger ale down his throat, and the combo ultimately created this sugary tornado that just sat in his belly, wreaking havoc on his system...once again! Not even Baby's famous coffee could do the trick!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> Rather than bore you with the details of our dramatic 6-hour trek down US1 in the blistering heat and unrelenting sun, I will skip to the part where we came to our decision at mile 25 of 31.07 to throw in the towel. I will say that along the way, it was very traumtic for me, watching him struggle to walk, nevermind run. I almost resented him for holding us back. It looked as though at any moment, he could pass out. That said, when we approached the race marshall who had no ice, but only warm water and Mountain Dew, with a mile to go to reach the ice station, my partner dropped out. I actually thought he was gonna drop dead. He insisted I keep going the 6 more miles needed to finish (together, it would've taken us at least another 2 hours) and truth be told, I considered it. I tought we had come way too far to quit now and I didn't want to face an imminent DNF. I wanted to cross the finish line and get my medal! How selfish of me, right? But then seeing him start to hurl then spread himself out on the concrete. my heart sank with fear which was quickly replaced with love. It was in that instant that (as I approach mid-life in a few years) I grew up a lot!!! So we carefully placed my partner in the passenger seat with the air conditioning on him full blast. Not exactly in the mood for celebrating, I asked to be dropped off at the hotel, but my partner agreed with the race marshal that we should go back to the finish line and enjoy a cold beer.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> As we took our walk of shame and dropped our timing chips in the bucket, we were mindful not to go anywhere near the finish mat. I watched in dismay as my fellow 50k peeps, along with some 50-milers and relay runners crossed the line and got their medals. Just then, I decided to drown in my sorrows with the light and watery beer offerings and stuff my face with the veggie burgers, only to find out after one bite that they were Morningstar...NOT vegan! I began to sob inconsolably. A dear friend of ours, who just happened to win the 100-mile relay event with his team and set a new course record, caught me crying like a baby, rolled his eyes and handed us an IPA to share. Whether is was vegan or not...who the hell cares!!! </span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5VzHmr6UEA/VVzxEEHeh1I/AAAAAAAABS0/SuR9WomAJic/s1600/steve%2Bat%2Bfinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i5VzHmr6UEA/VVzxEEHeh1I/AAAAAAAABS0/SuR9WomAJic/s200/steve%2Bat%2Bfinish.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"></span> <span style="color: #38761d;">We eventually made it back to our hotel and I was completely spent both physically as well as emotionally. I just wanted to curl up in bed and go to sleep and put an end to the miserable day once and for all. I stopped taking anymore photos for the rest of our trip as my spirits remained rather low. My partner insisted we go out for dinner on famous Duval St. that night since we were still in fabulous Key West. Hmmm...how quickly my partner recovered!!! I regrouped and we found Willy T's, where they offered a b vegan burger and fries. Perhaps it was me but I didn't find my beloved post-race reward staple very rewarding at all. I would've much preferred a huge bucket of Five Guys french fries (nearby) in bed with a good movie. Oh well. It seems I wasn't exactly getting what I wanted that weekend. No biggie. What was big was seeing our sweet and passionate ultra running friend DB, the oldest runner in the race, 2 miles before he completed the 100-miler 32 1/2 hours later! </span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ybxz2GbsF7w/VVz0KrWahmI/AAAAAAAABTI/IGh5ZdDnK8k/s1600/david%2Bin%2Bkeys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d;">What an inspiration, a true hero! </span></a><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"> Well, as I near the end of this blog, I can say with all honesty that I accept my DNF as a right of passage and I wear it with pride, like a badge of honor, better than any race hardware (NOT!). Gives me an idea of how some 100-mile runners feel after they are forced to drop out of a race by either missing their cut off time or from sheer exhaustion/fatigue. No applause, no medal/buckle, no praise from their running club, even though they have probably run 70-80 miles that day, more than most in a month! Both my partner and I retraced our steps to see what we (he) could've done differently and for starters, we would NEVER choose a 50k race that starts at 1 pm in the deadly heat! As far as nutrition, I think my partner has it all figured out (hopefully). So we will forge ahead, thinking of our next distance race and how great it will be, no matter what, as long as we are together. </span><span style="color: #38761d;"></span><span style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Oops, I forgot...one more picture that I couldn't help taking as we pulled away from a famous local key lime pie shop parking lot...</span><span style="color: #38761d;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">I'm sure they weren't as slow as us at the race :)))</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Gotta Run! VeGAL Andee</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> </span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-92166998158221831522014-12-19T11:32:00.000-08:002014-12-19T11:32:01.344-08:00The Vegal Arsenal! Don't leave home without them!!! What on earth am I referring to??? The Vegan Aresenal is any portable plant-based nutritional supplement or combo (added to food) that will come in handy when dining out or traveling to unknown parts where vegan options may be quite limited. Expect the minimum and you won't be disappointed. Come prepared and you can create your own nutritional powerhouse that will leave your non-vegan counterparts speechless (let's see them try and poke fun of you now!!). Simply prepare small baggies of various non-perishable plant foods to carry in your purse (or fanny pack lol). There are even small packets of olive/coconut oil on the market in 6 or 10-count boxes. Then off you go to your worry-free meal! You may wish to carry extra for your envious companions (although they hate to admit it).<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuqac8vl3EY/VJR6y7rwXzI/AAAAAAAABME/tTh1WjDtrFk/s1600/almonds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wuqac8vl3EY/VJR6y7rwXzI/AAAAAAAABME/tTh1WjDtrFk/s1600/almonds.jpg" height="320" width="224" /></a> So you only see a garden salad (make sure there is no cheese) or some kind of meat-infiltrated entree salad (that you will most definitely have to pay the same price for sans meat) and a plain baked potato/white pasta on the menu? Have no fear... tasty and hearty toppings are here! Whip out your oil packet or ask for some olive oil as well as balsamic vinegar for the salad then pull out your bag of tricks! Sprinkle your nuts of choice like cashews, walnuts or almonds (a drupe, not a nut btw), and seeds like sunflower, pumpkin, hemp or chia, and finish off with your coconut bacon, a little salt and pepper and bam! You have a salad fit for a king...or vegan queen! In many instances, dining establishments will actually have peanuts or trail mix available which are not on the menu. Wherever you go, always ask for avocado, which they should have!! They will probably want to charge you extra but you can argue your point that it is replacing the meat! If you are allergic to peanuts, tree nuts or certain seeds...that must SUCK for you as a vegan!!! Have you tried those new TigerNuts yet?<br />
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When it comes to the potato or pasta, remember...don't fear carbs, you need the complex ones for extended energy, as long as they are consumed with the proper balance of protein and fats! How else are you gonna fill up? With pasta, whole wheat is preferred and luckily, it is becoming increasingly available in mainstream restaurants! But if you find yourself limited to only white pasta, choose to have a small portion, plain, topped with steamed veggies (chefs/servers are more than willing to accommodate if you just ask). Whether potato or pasta, use some olive/coconut oil in place of butter, throw on steamed broccoli, spinach or whatever fresh veggies are available that night (and don't forget to specify "no butter"), plus fresh herbs like basil if possible, then sprinkle a generous amount of your nutritional yeast on top (better than any parmesan cheese), followed by nuts/seeds, spices, some more coconut bacon and the kicker...Sriracha or Tabasco (your own little bottle if you prefer). To add a rich and creamy texture to your entree, mix in any avocado left over from the salad or snag a dollop of guacamole! I always say...you can never have enough of that green gold since it consists of the good fats!!! <br />
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For dessert, let your meaty friends feast their eyes on your fresh fruit or sorbet topped with either coconut salted caramel or dark chocolate shreds (or some more bacon lol)! Sure, their molten lava brownie bottom pie or deep fried cheesecake will look scrumptious at the time but remember...a second on the lips, a lifetime on the hips! You will walk out of there feeling energized and satisfied while your company will be sluggish and sleepy. Perfect for them as they are sleeping in the next day while you will spring to your feet before sunrise for your daily hard core workout! After all, you are a Vegan Girl AthLete...training with a conscience; staying firmly planted. <br />
VeGALS unite!!! <br />
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Train hard, fuel hearty!<br />
VeGAL AndeeVeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-67431089648982006112014-12-02T16:43:00.002-08:002014-12-02T16:43:23.665-08:00Meatus Interruptus! Greetings VeGALs and plant fans! If you are a mainstream vegan like me, then chances are you deal with the issue of animal byproducts being randomly placed in your plant foods on an ongoing basis when dining out. Chefs/cooks/food preps simply cannot help themselves when it comes to adulterating the foods from nature that we love so much. In their eyes, they feel they are enhancing the flavor whereas we can all agree it only detracts from the true essence that plant-based cuisine has to offer. On many vegetarian/vegetable menu items, no where does it even indicate that there will be animal-based foods added to the dish, which is surprising nowadays with so many food allergy concerns. For instance, it is often the case where I order a garden salad that is listed as having only lettuce, cukes, carrots, tomatoes (and other "safe" ingredients) and when it arrives, it is laden with shaved/sprinkled parmesan cheese. I have learned to ask for salads now with no cheese, egg or bacon even if it is NOT listed on the menu. Sadly enough, there are still some naive food servers/preps out there that still have no idea what the term "vegan" actually refers to so often times I choose the old "food allergy" excuse to drive home a point, especially when at an unfamiliar place. Don't get me wrong...I wear my vegan identity with pride but when it comes to ordering my meal, I go to great lengths to get the order right and even then, I have to send it back due to error half the time!!!<br />
A while back, I had written an article for VegginOutAndAbout.com, where I'm a staff writer/contributor that discusses hidden animal products in our foods, if you would like to refer to that, like chicken broth, fish stock, beef stock, milk, whey, egg yolks, egg wash, oyster sauce, anchovies, parmesan cheese, butter, casein, gelatin, etc. Many restaurants, especially chains, have an allergy menu available either on location or online which can be very helpful in providing insight into non-vegan foods we assume to be safe. It isn't always easy, and sometimes next to impossible to find a vegan/vegan-friendly joint and the majority of our family/friends are typically omnivours so we must settle on mainstream, trying to make the best of it without drawing too much attention to ourselves. <br />
Just this past weekend, my running partner and I were in Cocoa Beach, FL to run the Space Coast Marathon (as pacers) for our third year in a row. A few days before the race, we looked over the dinner menu online for Fat Kahunas, a small bar/restaurant we've had our eye on for a few years. The menu seemed very welcoming and the location, ideal to watch a nearby Friday night street party, so we were excited to check it out. As soon as we were seated, we were served fresh homade hummus with olives and warm tortilla chips. I would've been perfectly content eating that all night, washed down by a draft beer, of course. But I chose to order the grilled vegetable tacos, minus the red and green peppers (I always lie and say I'm allergic since I just plain don't like 'em), add avocado instead as my entree. As an experiment of sorts, I refrained from mentioning the word "vegan" while I made sure that there was NO cheese or sour cream also due to "allergies" and the waitress said NO problem. The menu said it comes with a teriyaki glaze which sounded safe enough for me. So....as she sets my beautiful plate down before me, veggie soft tacos accompanied by coconut rice, black beans and fresh salsa, I noticed a red/orange sauce strewn across the entire dish, along with the teriyaki glaze. I was immediately suspicious of a mayonnaise presence as the server explained that the chef uses his own "secret sauce" for an added touch. I only wish I would've snapped a photo of it! My fear was confirmed...the sauce was mayo-based, probably mixed with sriracha...something I do with my vegan "Just Mayo" all the time. Our server apologized and offered to prepare another plate that was "vegan." Yes, she actually used the word after all that lol. In the end, the food was scrumptious, especially the coconut rice, and the restaurant was very accommodating. I schooled the server about Just Mayo being egg-free and "safe" for all patrons without compromising taste. She said she would relay that to the chef! <br />
As our post race meal, we headed back south to Delray Beach, FL, along famous Atlantic Avenue, to a preferred hang out of ours, Budda Sky Bar, a departure from our usual post race beer/french fries reward. We were famished and in desperate need of fried food so we ordered vegetable spring rolls in addition to their divine mushroom dumplings and stir fried string beans. However, much to our chagrin, when spring rolls arrived, they were nothing more than veggie egg rolls, which of course are made out of egg wonton wraps. I proceeded to taste the inside and was unsure of the filling. I have encountered the "inadvertent meat eat" with dumplings in the past so I grew weary of the contents, which looked an awful lot like ground chicken or pork. It's hard to distinguish ground meat! The chef actually came out and insisted there were only vegetables, no meat inside but when we remarked how they were egg rolls, not spring rolls, there was no changing his mind about that. He brought us a fresh batch of the same to be sure and said it's definitely tofu inside and that he said he tries to season it so well so that it tastes like chicken, which makes it taste better...yes, those were his words. Needless to say, I stayed away from the egg rolls altogether and embraced all the wonderful veggie options this Japanese restaurant has to offer. Essentially, the chef's opinion is much like so many others...everything tastes better with animal products in them. We know better!!!<br />
Try as we might, we will always face challenges when it comes to plant-based, cruelty-free meals but as more and more foodies turn to plants, more and more folks in the food industry will catch on. It's a trend that's here to stay. We must remain positive as well as patient in our endeavors and not get discouraged every time we have to send a meal back. Each time that we do, it actually sends a message to both chefs and servers to think outside the box, be creative, go beyond the animal byproducts, Even if a server seems to be aware of the term "vegan," they may not have a clear understanding of what that actually means. We have to simply be specific when ordering and ask questions for clarification. And just maybe, we'll make a few of them go plant-based all the way!<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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<br />VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-2326422680436725632014-11-09T14:42:00.000-08:002014-11-09T14:42:34.371-08:00 Maine is Veg Friendly! Say What???? <span id="goog_580723163"></span><span id="goog_580723164"></span><br />
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When you think Maine, you think lobster!!! I mean, you can't help but think about this bright red crustacean when it's symbol is plastered just about everywhere you look, especially on Mt. Desert Island, the third largest island on the eastern seaboard, where my running partner and I recently ran the MDI Marathon. My partner in crime, Dr. Mark Shachner, is a seasoned marathon runner who had the pleasure (or nightmare) of running this particular marathon 2 years ago and fell in love with the course, extreme challenges and all, which starts at Main Street in Bal Harbor and finishes in Southwest Harbor.<br />
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This lobster-lovin' runner couldn't wait to take me there to experience the natural beauty MDI has to offer but was concerned with the limited dining options available to vegans. During his stay, he checked out the local establishments in search of hearty, healthy, plant-based cuisine but was disappointed with what he found. Fortunately, he ate at The Burning Tree, in Otter Creek, the night before they closed for the season, and was pleased to discover locally-grown vegan fare on the menu. <br />
Fast forward 2 years later, there we were, staying at his friend's beautiful home in Somesville, excited to tackle the MDI Marathon together! <br />
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MDI has enchanted visitors throughout the ages from the mountains/trails/lakes/wildlife of Acadia National Park to the magical marine mammals and abundant sea creatures. The island essentially lends itself to nature-loving folks so it makes sense to provide patrons with plant-based cuisine, right?<br />
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Mark was determined to drive me by the Burning Tree to make dinner reservations. Unfortunately, when we got there, they had already closed its doors for the winter, which can be the case for many places so better check before you go. Upon reviewing menus for both familiar as well as brand new joints, Mark was delighted to see that vegan options were ample enough for breakfast, lunch and dinner! Much has changed over the last few years, in a positive way...very representative of society in general! <br />
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Our first night there, we drove into touristy yet charming downtown Bar Harbor to grab some dinner at the Side Street Cafe. We ordered the homemade hummus & olive tapenade served with warm pita wedges and brushed with olive oil as an appetizer. I absolutely LOVED this very generous portion of wholesome goodness. For dinner, I had a large salad with fresh roasted veggies that was very satisfying. And of course there was draft beer to wash it all down with...An organic Peak IPA. <br />
And as I ask at every restaurant...no, there were NO VEGAN CUPCAKES for dessert!!! Aside from that, the SSC was so accommodating that we found ourselves there 2 more times, once for lunch where they make a homemade vegan black bean patty served either in a wrap or ciabatta roll...so spicy, hearty and savory which we both thoroughly enjoyed!!! Then, we rewarded ourselves (a promise I keep) with some homemade skins-on fries accompanied by a coffee stout chaser post race! A little Sunday football to boot! Although Mark enjoys plant-based meals, he finally indulged in what Bar Harbor is famous for...a lobster roll! After all, he is NOT a veg but VERY veg friendly! It's important to be both accepting and supportive of one another! <br />
On the same street, we stumbled upon Gringo's, the locals' hang out, where they offer casual fresh mex! There are many healthy choices, all satisfying, topped with homemade salsa. I created my own burrito which was very filling, I actually left some over which is rare, especially before a race!!! <br />
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We had actually attempted to grab some breakfast earlier that day at This Way Cafe but missed the boat by 10 minutes, NO EXCEPTIONS! There they offer "The Vegan," soy seasoned scrambled tofu with mushrooms, onions, peppers, broccoli, potatoes with unbuttered toast. Tofu is NOT exactly my chosen protein source but once in a while, I'll have some if it sounds appetizing. TWC is also open for dinner where there are a few creative veg-friendly items on the menu that sound delish! I Will have to wait for next time. <br />
Another restaurant we have on our short list to try is China Joy, which seems like typical fare but I did notice that Sawyer's Market in Southwest Harbor sold pre-cooked, packaged vegan dumplings and noodles prepared by China Joy which looked very fresh and appetizing. That market also offered a homemade vegan potato soup but unfortunately it wasn't ready yet when we had stopped in. By the way, I love the idea of these little grab-n-go boxed vegan delights (chinese, sushi, sandwiches) which are becoming increasingly popular in either grocer's/convenient story fridges or airports but sometimes they can be a bit soggy or taste like they have expired, even though the date shown is not. Eat a Pita, also in Southwest Harbor, is another one we wanted to check out but didn't have time, as they offer casual mediterranean pitas/burgers/salads/sandwiches with lots of veg option. I especially like the sound of their spicy vegetarian chili, where they say, "you'll wonder where the beef went!" <br />
The biggest disappointed was at McKay's Public House, where we actually made reservations. The restaurant was so charming, the air so crisp and inviting, that we chose to sit in their outdoor patio area under a big heater. The salads were tasty enough, as were the crispy sweet potato fries, but the curried vegetable dish I ordered consisted of what appeared to be frozen vegetables over very bland rice. The worst part was the piece of paper I found in the dish... must have been from the box of frozen veggies lol. Our server apologized, quickly removed the dish and scratched it from the bill. Oh well... at least I filled up on the warm bread with dipping oil when we sat down. They all can't be winners. Next time, we will try Lompac Cafe, with their many plant-based options on the menu PLUS dessert...bittersweet chocolate mousse made vegan and gluten free with almond milk! They have sorbet as well. I can't believe I missed that one!!! I'm always in search of vegan desserts to sample other than FRUIT!!!<br />
One last place, I promise! Reel Pizza Cinerama, a stone's throw from SSC, is where you can catch a flick and customize your vegan pizza with either white or wheat crust and lots of interesting sauces/toppings/soy cheese. I lied...there's The Friar's Pub, at the Black Friar Inn, where they have vegan pancakes for breakfast and make their own granola, served with fresh fruit. <br />
I would be remiss not to mention how impressed I was with the pre-race pasta dinner organized by many friendly and welcoming race volunteers at Mt. Desert High School. As I walked up to get my mound of plain white penne pasta, (who needs fiber before a race?) I couldn't believe my eyes as I saw a sign that read "Marinara Vegan!" Rather than top the pasta, I ate it like tomato soup! Yum! Since the race was sponsored by Fiore olive oil, bottles were presented like salt and pepper on the tables so I feasted on lotsa pasta topped with olive oil and nutritional yeast that I brought from home. Attention vegans: NEVER leave home without your NY to ensure your RDA of B12- it goes with everything!!!<br />
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I think I have fed you enough info about vegan-friendly dining establishments for now. I'm sure I'm missing a few but hopefully, you have an idea of how surprisingly accommodating Bar Harbor and MDI has become for us plant lovers! If you happen to be a runner interested in participating in the MDI Marathon, Half Marathon or Relay Event, spoiler alert: stop reading! Continue on if you are just curious since I will say that this race is probably the most difficult I have ever run and I have completed 33 full marathons!!! The cold temps, strong head/tail winds and undulating hills proved extremely challenging, to say the least. I will say this, though, the scenery was absolutely breathtaking throughout, minus the last 5 miles in Southwest Harbor due to traffic and construction. <br />
Although I fell in love with MDI, it was no love affair between me and the marathon! I look forward to returning to this spectacular island as long as there are no races on the calendar! Can't wait to check out those places we didn't get to as well as the new ones that I'm sure will pop up between now and then. Since Bal Harbor is generally very seasonal, check operating hours beforehand. For now I will pray that upon my return, I will be able to find a vegan cupcake, rising out from above the plethora of local blueberry pies, popovers, moon pies, salt-water taffy and fudge. I can hear the harps now...."laaaaaa." Then perhaps I will run the MDI Marathon again!!!<br />
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Training with a conscience; staying firmly planted...VeganGirlAthLetes<br />
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-75526161338171081242014-10-23T15:05:00.002-07:002014-10-23T15:05:45.331-07:00Breaking News: Vegans Suffering Globally from Severe Protein Deficiency!!! As crazy as it sounds to us plant-based folks, that title seems to be a very common misconception among our omnivorous counterparts! According to them, we seem to be dropping like flies from protein deficiency, as we suffer from a disease called "Veganism!" This once rare affliction linked to plants is now becoming an epidemic! From our extremely fit to our morbidly obese non-vegan peers, the lack of protein in our vegan diet is causing them great concern for our health and well being. Many suspect that there might even be a brain tissue-eating bacteria involved since obviously we have lost our minds!!! Forget all the other diseases out there which are NOT associated with veganism, like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood, anemia, cancer, Chrohn's, colitis, osteoporosis, fatty liver, etc.... Vegans must stop what they are doing and for g-d's sake eat some animal flesh so we all wont just drop dead. I'm flattered that friends and family to virtual strangers seem to care so much but at the same time, I'm annoyed by having to constantly explain myself to these non-nutritionists/dieticians/medical experts. The question, "Where do you get your protein?" is as old as time, as tired as cat deprived of her 22-hour nap! Yawn!!!!<br />
As an accomplished long-distance runner (VeganGirlAthLete, a.k.a. VeGAL), not to mention 47 y/o mom of 3, why must I always answer to either an unfit, unhealthy person with a history of chronic illnesses or some muscle head bulked up by whey protein, the reason behind my decision to go plant based? And why must I back it up with an in depth report about where I obtain my protein sources? It's not like I go around tooting my own horn or lecturing anyone on the benefits of a whole foods, plant-based diet. I live mainstream, surrounded by omnivores, just trying to live my life as ethically, peacefully and accepting as possible. But if the subject should come up, I feel sometimes that I am attacked, rather than praised for making a conscious decision to be kind, compassionate, or as VeGALs say, "compassionfit," healthy and environmentally friendly. I am pretty sure you feel the same way. I mean, how often do people respond with, "wow, vegan...how cool!" or "I'm so impressed!" or "you are so awesome, how can I become vegan like you?" or "you must really LOVE animals!" or "you look great" or "what an inspiration!" or "you are obviously doing something right!" or "you really care about our planet!" (I can go on and on and on lol). I will say this, which made my day a few weeks ago... I was treating a patient in their home when his very sweet spouse tried to push half of her chicken chimichanga from Taco Bell on me, when I politely declined. She persisted so I explained that I am vegan and only eat plant-based foods. She then replied, "no wonder your skin looks so good!" I was flabbergasted!!! <br />
Meat-eaters insist that as humans, we are designed to eat animal flesh. However, much to their dismay, veganism has been around for at least four million years, according to John. A. McDougall, M.D., perhaps the most knowledgeable expert on the relationship between diet and disease. Recent anthropology research suggests that early man wasn't the inherently evil and aggressive hunter, natural killer that Judeo-Christian ideology suggests as our accepted paradigm of human evolution. But I will spare you the history lesson. In a nutshell, we have evolved from monkeys and chimps who are 99% plant based!!! How can anyone argue with that??? The key word here is "evolve" which is what veganism is all about... with modern medicine as well as an abundance of research/literature, humans have discovered that many diseases...the real culprits or "epidemics" here are linked to animal trans fats, simple sugars and processed foods, NOT a whole foods, plant-based diet!!!<br />
While I aim to keep this blog light hearted (by now you know my sense of humor), there is a level of sadness that we as vegans experience from time to time in that while we have embraced a kind and compassionate lifestyle, not to mention an extremely healthy one, we are scrutinized and even frowned upon more often than not. We have made a conscience, life-changing decision which arguably benefits everyone, where we are so proud that we want to shout it to the world, but then leave it to someone to come along to try and burst our bubble, reminding us of our so called "disease," our dirty little secret.<br />
Being the butt of people's jokes just isn't funny anymore. What I have learned to do lately is stop those skeptics dead in their tracks and laugh at or mock myself first, beat them to the punch, get it out of the way then move on. YOU have the ability to out-wit them since YOU are the one who has EVOLVED! If you are a newbie to the veg world, my advice would be to stay above the fray, be true to who you are, don't second guess yourself and set the best example ever!!! Inevitably, our disease will spread (ideally like wildfires), as folks become more educated...the research is undeniable!!! The good news is that more and more plant-based options are fast becoming available for us from mainstream grocery stores to restaurants, airlines, hotels, cruise ships, corporations, hospitals and learning institutions. If it's not happening in your town...MAKE it happen!<br />
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Training with a conscience, staying firmly planted...VeganGirlAthLete!!! <br />
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-47585310869997154102014-08-31T10:07:00.001-07:002014-08-31T10:07:39.883-07:00Haters Want to Be Us! Welcome back fellow VeGALs (VeganGirlAthLetes) and welcome to my blog if you are new to the VeGAL movement. Whether you are a long-time veg, recently vegan or just beginning to embark on your plant-based journey, becoming a VeGAL means embracing a lifestyle consisting of compassionate health, nutrition, beauty, fashion and fitness. We take veganism to a whole nutha level...one that is elevated, sophisticated, refined and inspired which means VeGALs strive to stay positive regardless of the not-so-positive situations we unfortunately find ourselves in more often than not. I'm pretty sure that we all have similar stories to share from being the butt of people's jokes to getting constantly lectured, being scrutinized from head to toe to even being harassed. The bottom line is this...haters want to be us! When we keep that in mind, it makes it easier to let other's negative energy roll off our backs! After all, VeGALs demonstrate strong convictions, not to mention unwavering commitment, to our plant-based, cruelty-free lifestyle. How many people can actually say that? I mean, many folks claim to be animal lovers yet somehow they have no problem disconnecting the food on their plates from the innocent animals it came from. It is one thing to be a dog/cat lover, but to say you love all animals equally...hmmm... that is not something people are ready, willing and able to accept. As VeGALS, utilizing animal products/byproducts for our benefit in any way is NOT an option. We as VeGALs represent an elite group of dedicated female athletes, all shapes, sizes, levels and disciplines who utilize only plant-based products to fuel our well-oiled machines while paying mind to animal welfare as well as environmental integrity. We are COMPASSIONFIT!!!<br />
That said, we are bound to face judgment, criticism, sarcasm and resentment throughout our lifetime. Uneducated, uninformed, ignorant, opinionated and outspoken assholes are unavoidable! We can't hide from them and live in caves or under rocks or banish ourselves to vegan colonies...we must put our best foot forward as we face adversity and not let those folks try and bring us down or get a rise out of us. That is exactly what they aim to do in an attempt to make them feel better about themselves. When you know in your heart where you stand, no one can knock you down. As our philosophy goes...Training with a conscience; staying firmly planted, VeganGirlAthletes! Never let 'em see you sweat, that is, unless they see you working your tush off to stay fit and healthy where no animals were harmed! VeGALs are badass, right down to our cores!!!<br />
The best advice I can give if you are confronted by some idiot is to just laugh it off and carry on... teach by example. Maintaining a sense of humor is key! Those people who are most vocal are the ones who probably question their own convictions the most! Remember, there is power in numbers! VeGALs stand united! Show your VeGAL pride and spread the word. Join our facebook page at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/vegalsunite">www.facebook.com/vegalsunite</a> and connect with VeGAL sistas from all over the world. Become a VeGAL on Instagram using "vegal" plus your name, follow me @vegalandee. Check out our webpage, <a href="http://www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/">www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/</a> to purchase a performance tee made from recycled materials to benefit Farm Sanctuary. We are currently working on a new running tank with and will keep you posted.<br />
And remember...haters want to be us 'cuz we are COMPASSIONFIT!VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-31040506590981891882014-07-28T12:56:00.002-07:002014-07-28T13:21:37.187-07:00Have Skirt Will Twirl! "It doesn't matter how you feel it's how you look dahling, and you look mahvelous!" You might be old enough, like myself, to remember this timeless line by Billy Crystal as he portrayed Fernando Llamas on Saturday Night Live many years ago. As VeGALs (VeganGirlAthLetes), we are careful not to utilize animal-derived products for our benefit but who says we all can't look Mahvelous? I mean, aren't we health conscience? Don't we go to great lengths to maintain a healthy weight for our body type? Aren't we concerned about premature aging, using plant-based, cruelty-free preventative methods? We bust our butts to the point of sheer exhaustion sometimes to look good. No matter how old or how bad ass we are, at the end of the day, we are still girls and we want to look pretty, right? That NEVER gets old!!!<br />
Two of my idols always wear skirts (and matching bra tops) by Running Skirts...Catra Corbett a.k.a. Dirt Diva, also a VeGAL, and Dr. Juli Goldstein, a.k.a Ms. USA Petite 2013, veterinarian and vegetarian. Catra is a serious ultra runner (around 300 with her fave distance being 100 miles) and hard core fitness athlete and Dr. Juli is an accomplished ultra runner. Check out runningskirts.com to view the many adorable colors, patterns and options!<br />
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They both recently crewed for team Finding Nimmo (Juli was chief) at the Badwater135. Talk about badass!! They both take great strides with their apparel to look cute and tough at the same time while running through the wilderness and getting down and dirty! Girl power gets them through the toughest of times, never forgetting who they are or where they came from. Watch out running dudes, you're about to get chicked!!! <br />
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For me personally, the running skirt/skort has proven both practical and comfy, especially during my first 50 miler not that long ago. I wore the Moving Comfort Running Skirt with patterned compression short, all made from recycled materials, which I purchased online (in purple and gray) from roadrunnersports.com. They hold up so well, with sweat-wicking properties, lots of storage and no chafing! </div>
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I discovered that when I wear a skirt, I just want to twirl and celebrate being a girl!!! In fact, I think it's growing into an obsession! I want to wear a skirt when I run all the time. I need one in every color!! Having been through (still going through) a domestic crisis, my running is my salvation! On the one hand, I never thought I would ever have to take on so much disappointment and grief but on the other hand, it is my female instincts which have made me rise above such adversity and set new goals for myself. To that end, my perseverance has paid off and I am honored to be selected as a runner for #oiselleteam. If you aren't familiar, Oiselle (French for female bird) is an up and coming company founded by a fab, not to mention accomplished runner, Sally Bergesen and run by a small team of great women, specializing in women's running, yoga and swimming apparel. I cannot wait to slip on the Bum Wrap (light and non chafing), Oiselle's answer to the running skirt, when budget allows of course, lol. The compression shorts peek out of the short wrap around skirt, creating an athletic and very flattering look. Please visit oiselle.com for all your fitness needs and get ready to fly!!! #gofasttakechances #headupwingsout </div>
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So VeGAL, if running is your thang, won't you consider the running skirt/skort? With so many choices out there, surely you will find the right fit and when you do, spin and spin and spin. Twirl 'til your heart's content! Let it be a reminder of who you are, not matter how difficult the challenge may be. You are strong, confident and determined. Let nothing or no one stand in your way. Send a message to others that you are NOT to be messed with...like, don't let the skirt fool you...we are kick ass!!! It's better to look good than to feel good and dahling, you look mahvelous!! ļ»æ</div>
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-12412322414500996252014-06-24T08:27:00.003-07:002014-06-24T08:34:30.583-07:00Vegan Athlete to the Extreme!!!<div style="color: black; direction: ltr; font-family: "Arial"; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; widows: 2;">
Vegan Athlete to the Extreme!<br />
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Which (you might say "who") came first...the vegan or the athlete? For me, it was the athlete. Heck, I didnāt even know that veganism existed when I began to embrace the world of fitness many years ago. The decision to exercise can happen overnight but to become a full-fledged vegan is a process (as it should be). The leap is a big one- a life-changing and hopefully permanent event. We may not always have the time, motivation or physical ability to exercise but once we go vegan, most, if not all of us hope to stay that way for the long haul!!! The plan should be sound and well-thought out, the commitment unwavering. Our strict adherence to plant-based, cruelty-free whole foods does indeed lend itself to the fitness arena, making those who choose this path even more dedicated as athletes. Veganism and fitness go hand in hand. It is not to say that being a vegan athlete means being bone thin or ripped.. Sure, there are many elite vegan athletes around the world, which is certainly helpful to our cause. But you donāt have to be famous to be respected. Being an athletic vegan means being fit and healthy at a weight that is comfortable for you! By eating a healthy diet, coupled with a healthy body image, active vegans will naturally exude confidence. My personal philosophy is to maintain a pure, natural, and organic-inspired plant-based paradigm as much as possible. That said, I am far from perfect when it comes to my nutritional intake. Furthermore, despite my consistent exercise, I will forever battle with my weight! To that end, I have called upon some not-so-organic methods/products, on occasion, referring to synthetic rather than pure, fried instead of steamed/baked, artificial vs natural. But one thing is for certain...I am always cruelty-free (except my self-punishing endurance sports) and nothing I use is derived from animal sources (that I am aware of) from my fuel right down to my cosmetics, beauty products, apparel and shoes! Although you know me to have very salty tooth, sometimes I just gotta have a big and fluffy white vegan cupcake or a chocolate chip cookie, or even a handful of Dots. In a nutshell, my advice would be to do the best that you can but be flexible, adaptable and donāt beat yourself up should either extenuating circumstances or an irresistible basket of french fries present themselves.</div>
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One such instance for me where my fuel demands stretched beyond just whole foods occurred during my first 50-mile individual race in the hot, humid and very sunny Florida Keys May 17th. Let me just say that as a VeGAL (Vegan Girl AthLete) I do NOT claim to be a raw foodist, naturalist or holistic follower. VeGALs are mainstream and thus we are not above utilizing modern medicine and technology as needed. If I have a severe headache/pain, I donāt hesitate to reach for Tylenol,and for inflammation or extreme muscle aches, maybe some Advil. This is not a daily practice but sometimes my whole foods, plant-based diet/herbal remedies are simply not enough to meet the demands of this hard core VeGAL!! Sure, there are wonderful new whole foods products out there designed for vegan endurance athletes such as Vega Sport or Activefuel+ which I used on a daily basis. But when Iām doing an ultra run (50k or 50 miles), my body tells me that I need more for extended endurance. Fortunately, the aid stations are equipped with many vegan-friendly foods such as oranges, dried fruit, pretzels, peanuts, salted boiled potatoes, raw carrots, coconut water and Hammer gel. Endurance running/sports can be very taxing on the digestive system, making it almost impossible to ingest the food and quickly turn it over to burn as fuel. Nausea can set in at any time and the organs can protest food/thick liquids or anything, for that matter! Taking in too much water to combat thirst may lead to hyponatremia. which could then lead to the ultimate disaster. Then you go into survival mode...take anything you can and try with your might to keep it down! </div>
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Luckily, I inadvertently discovered a product called Drip Drop at my last ultra marathon, which is the official hydration powder of UltraSports. When I have posted about it before on social media, a few readers were up in arms that the box says āmedical grade,ā as if it is medicine that is off limits to vegans. Simply put, medical grade means pure and unadulterated, having the highest potency. Just essential electrolytes combined in a flavorful bioavailable powder form to yield quick absorption, warding of nausea, muscle cramping, dehydration, and even death! It is non-toxic, cruelty-free and not a controlled substance. Mixed with water, Drip Drop is recommended before, during and after workouts. Post run/workout, it speeds recovery and overall soreness. Same is true for the product Saltstick caps PLUS, buffered electrolyte salts plus caffeine and sodium citrate. They come in vegetarian pill form, easily swallowed/digested to reduce heat stress, and muscle cramping, while maintaining electrolyte levels and increasing energy levels. I turned to both throughout but at certain points during the race, I became so exhausted and queasy that the only thing I could stomach was an icy cold, refreshing ginger ale or cola served at the aid stations. They are there for a reason. So what if I had refined sugar from a mass-produced soda made in a factory from a large corporation? So shoot me!!! Again...no animals harmed! And no, I didnāt fall off the wagon and become addicted to soft drinks (that was never my thing)! Final result: 17th place overall out of 107, 3rd in my age group! I had a very strong finish thanks to my training as well as my fuel! Not too shabby for a vegan female mom of 3 approaching her late 40ās! <br />
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Some vegan readers may be skeptical upon seeing labeled boxes or bottles resembling medicine. If you are one to stick to whole foods/water for all your nutritional needs and it is working then good for you! However, if you are a hard core endurance athlete, like me, potentially putting yourself in harms way due to the extreme physical demands as well as the threatening elements along the course, then I strongly suggest doing whatever it takes to not only avoid becoming road kill but to actually enjoy the event you trained so hard for as well as the celebration after! That sure would suck if you didnāt finish (DNF) or if you were too sick or nauseous to enjoy the beer served at the post-race party...best recovery drink ever!!! <br />
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Gotta run for now! Stay hydrated this summer!!!</div>
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-14317826015151137482014-03-24T15:01:00.000-07:002014-03-25T06:35:40.052-07:00What it Means to be a VeGAL<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Becoming a VeGAL (Vegan Girl AthLete) isn't merely about plants vs. animals. Being a VeGAL isn't simply about a (cool) name or label. Saying you are a VeGAL isn't just about expressing a particular attitude. Becoming a VeGAL is about adopting a particular way of life!!! When you arrive at the decision to become a VeGAL, you have come to the conclusion that you are committed to following an elevated philosophy; that you are unwavering in your convictions. The belief is that our chosen athletic disciplines are a part of us, not just a phase. Even if injury should sideline us from our favorite sport, we still find a way to maintain our fitness through alternate channels. We are dedicated to upholding a regular workout regimen, fueled and outfitted strictly by plant sources...NO EXCEPTIONS!!! VeGALs do not have to be elite athletes, but we are definitely elite when it comes to how we value life, any life, human or animal. We are all equal! Thus, no animals are harmed in the making of a true VeGAL. Sure, the journey to get here can be quite a tricky one along the way, filled with obstacles, challenges and pitfalls. If it were simple, maybe everyone would do it. But, once you make that determination, staying a VeGAL is easy thanks to the ever-increasing vegan trend around the world. Plant-based nutrition is now at your fingertips, cruelty-free beauty products/apparel abound. Never mind those skeptics, the ones who love to tease or bring you down...veganism is here to stay! To take it one step further, becoming a VeGAL means you are joining a sophisticated community of vegan female athletes who uphold a plant-based paradigm. Not only are we strong physically, we are strong in our belief system regarding animal welfare and environmental integrity! We are beautiful from the inside out! VeGALs run, swim, bike, hike, spin, ski, walk, Crossfit, practice yoga/pilates, play tennis, lift weights, do martial arts or Zumba! We come in all shapes and sizes, all ages, all levels. We struggle just like our non-vegan female counterparts with health, weight, beauty, body image, hormones, emotions, relationships, financial issues, etc. What sets VeGALs apart from everyone else is that we share a common bond...we are hard core, down to our very core!!! Like the precious lotus flower, we rise above adversity yet we are no shrinking violet! VeGALs are in constant motion!!! Unfortunately, we are still a rare breed, spread out far and wide, leaving us feeling lonely and isolated at times in our endeavors. We must build our unity through social media for support, information exchange and inspiration. Please like my facebook page, VEGAL, vegan girl athletes, or follow me on twitter @VegalAndrea for the latest tips, products, recipes, events, etc. Feel free to share pics/info too! Make a statement, raise awareness, spread the word by sporting the VeGAL high-quality, lightweight performance tee shirt made from recycled materials with sweat-wicking/SPF properties at <a href="http://www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/">www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/</a>, where a portion of the proceeds goes to supporting Farm Sanctuary rescue organization. I'm excited to embark on this next chapter with you! Training with a conscience; staying firmly planted...VeGALs unite!!!<br />
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</span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-9860528936046609462014-01-30T14:59:00.002-08:002014-01-30T15:01:04.928-08:00VeGAL Performance T-Shirts are Here!!!<span style="color: #38761d;">Welcome, fellow VeGALs! In case you were wondering where I've been, well...I've been busy designing our new performance apparel short and long-sleeved tees sporting the VeGAL logo in front! There is an air of mystery about the name rather than an "in your face," potentially offensive message with a meat or political reference. VeGAL, which stands for Vegan Girl AthLete, is a sophisticated community of dedicated female athletes of all ages, disciplines, levels and sizes! We are not united in order to teach a lesson or give a lecture but rather to come together as a force in motion with a common bond...we train with a conscience; we are firmly planted (as the back of the shirt suggests). I'm proud to announce that the shirts are manufactured in the USA using recycled materials and the result is a soft, lightweight, comfy shirt which offers sweat-wicking and UV protection capabilities by the company Atayne. A portion of the proceeds benefit Farm Sanctuary, where they rescue and rehabilitate abused and neglected farm animals- a cause I have always been passionate about. The path to arriving at VeGAL can be a long and winding journey to say the least. As women, we face many obstacles, challenges and adversity throughout our lifetime from body image and beauty to weight/health issues and hormonal imbalances, to relationships, careers, child-bearing, child-rearing, finances, etc. True, we have many blessings but life does indeed throw us curve balls every now and again. Through it all, it is our strict adherence to exercise while utilizing plant sources for fuel/apparel coupled with our strong convictions regarding animal welfare and environmental integrity that has paved the way for the birth of VeGAL. I am ecstatic to offer these awesome performance tees, perfect before, during and after workouts as well for casual wear with jeans! The more shirts sold, the more we can help the animals and best of all, we can express to the world pride in our belief system and hopefully the word will spread at how badass and hard core to the bone VeGALs truly are!!! Please don't hesitate to support the VeGAL movement. Visit </span><a href="http://www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/"><span style="color: #38761d;">www.atayne.com/shop/vegal/</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> to order your shirt and join the ranks of this elite group which upholds an elevated, incomparable philosophy. A new website is also under construction, </span><a href="http://www.vegalsunite.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">www.vegalsunite.com</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;"> where VeGALs will have the chance to gather and share information and recipes. Athletic events and meet ups will also be announced. In the meantime, please enjoy our sister site, </span><a href="http://www.vegginoutandabout.com/"><span style="color: #38761d;">www.vegginoutandabout.com</span></a><span style="color: #38761d;">, where talented VeGAL editor Danielle Bussone offers a wealth of information as well as vegan/vegan friendly restaurant reviews. I also write a monthly column called "Food as Fuel" for those distance running junkies like myself. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Thank you so much for your support. VeGALs unite! </span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-15328647794304202552013-11-08T07:51:00.001-08:002013-11-08T07:51:54.773-08:00Ode to the Bowl Part 1<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> If you consider yourself a true VeGAL then you are also a vegan foodie! Personally, I run to eat. Conversely, I eat to run...food = fuel. I like the idea of fuel in disguise! Vegan fare should be as delicious and satisfying (and of course more nutritious) as that of our non-vegan counterparts! To that end, we eat with our eyes! Truth be told, I'm not big into juicing, smoothies and raw foods! If you prefer to drink your meal, like a breakfast smoothie, rich with leafy greens like kale, spinach, wheat grass along with fresh fruit, that is the bomb! Unfortunately, my curious eyes just can't get past the thick, frog-green like beverage (gag!). I have never been into juice, opting to drink only water, seltzer and coffee, saving my calories for food with some room left over for a recovery plant-protein drink as needed. The VeGAL lifestyle lends itself to BOWL FOOD!!! A cheap,quick and easy(like us!) method of combining a whole grain/pseudograin, protein, mixed veggies with a dash of seasoning/hot sauce (burns calories-yay! VeGALs simply do not have time to fuss in the kitchen!! </span><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_4AfTDI-28/Un0EocIaVdI/AAAAAAAAAwY/-a7t9puUwFE/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_4AfTDI-28/Un0EocIaVdI/AAAAAAAAAwY/-a7t9puUwFE/s200/photo+(8).JPG" width="96" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYF6-ZVNIBs/Unz-_aJuxVI/AAAAAAAAAwM/LPYTHUC8NnI/s1600/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYF6-ZVNIBs/Unz-_aJuxVI/AAAAAAAAAwM/LPYTHUC8NnI/s200/photo+%25287%2529.JPG" width="143" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> Now that the kale craze recipe bandwagon seems to have run its course (everyone and their mother has a prep suggestion, yawn), kale is here to stay and I officially induct it into the dark leafy green Hall of Fame!!! However, after throwing it into various dishes each week, it's time to mix it up a bit!!! So last night I grabbed a bag of sweet kale mix consisting of not only kale but brussel sprouts, broccoli slaw and radicchio, and emptied the contents, minus the dressing/seed & berry mix), threw it into a baking dish, tossed in a small package of shitake mushrooms for their (for lack of a better word) "meaty" or "umami" protein value (wipe with paper towel, pull stems off, break into small pieces), coated with EVOO, sprinkled some Nutritional Yeast (cheese-like substance chock full of essential B-12) with a dash of Kosher sea salt, baked in 475 degree over for approx. 15-20 min, until crispy/almost burnt. I had already prepared a box of nutrition powerhouse quinoa (another bandwagon, yawn)that I keep in the fridge for either cold salads or hot bowl food. I threw some in a bowl, warmed it up, added the veggies (you can throw in the craisins/pumpkin seeds that come with the kale mix but I didn't). Discard the dressing...too many questionable ingredients. Drizzle with some EVOO and perhaps a little sracha! Paired with tiny glass of vegan-friendly Frey Sauvignon Blanc and wala!!! Perfect night-before supper for an intense work out today!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And let's not forget...VeGALs train with a conscience; we are FIRMLY PLANTED!</span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-8835481316289727672013-10-29T07:44:00.002-07:002013-10-29T07:44:38.731-07:00Rest: The Best Workout! <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; clear: right; color: #e69138; display: inline !important; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oe28H0OCHUQ/Um-7Uu6M_AI/AAAAAAAAAvU/sSMr-JC7PVg/s1600/photo+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><b><i style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> Me and Shaun T...we tight (poor grammar intended, I'm trying to be cool)! Well, we're not exactly besties! Heck, he doesn't even know who I am! But boy am I a huge fan (borderline stalker) of his!!! And he is definitely tight! I mean, have you seen his rock hard abs(RHA's)? Lucky for me, my running partner is a close second. If you work out to Insanity, you can't help but notice Shaun T's abs. We share the same core values...whatever rigorous activity we are engaged in, we are always engaging our core!!! You would think by now I would have washboard abs but unfortunately I wasn't designed that way and my love for all things carb certainly doesn't help. Yet I haven't given up! A strong core means strong everything else (sorry, I lack sophistication). It supports your overall framework, keeps you strong and healthy, and can help to prevent injuries related to ITB, hamstrings, hip flexors, knee/joint integrity, etc. What I love most about Insanity is how Shaun T encourages taking frequent breaks, especially if you are feeling fatigued. If you lose your form, rather than continue on, losing the benefits of the workout as well as risking injury, he suggests you shake it out, grab a drink, rest for a sec, regroup and join in again. You see...rest is key!!! Same goes for running...there's no point in running on empty! It's okay to walk or stretch it out, take frequent breaks, and hydrate as you feel before it's too late! For VeGALs, I strongly suggest a pre/during drink mix called activfule+ Sports Nutrtion which contains brown rice protein for stamina support and recovery! Best of all, it is plant based...ain't no crappy whey protein in this potent powder which means no animals harmed, better digestion and quicker transport of fuel where needed! Rest is NOT the enemy, exhaustion is!!! Listen to your body, treat it like the temple that it is, replenish with only the finest plant-based ingredients! </i><span style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">Along hose lines is what I strongly recommended for VeGALs (and all other endurance athletes) known as the "scheduled rest day (SRD)." It is a designated day off each week from any type of strenuous exercise to allow for recovery and repair. I know, I know, VeGALs may worry about getting fat if g-d forbid you miss a day. But rest assured, you WON'T pack on the lbs in one day unless you stuff your face with french fries and pasta all day in a feeding frenzy, leading to a carb coma which I doubt since you are well-oiled and only crave healthy whole foods, right???? In any case, if you push yourself on tired legs/frame, you are only logging in junk miles which is a total waste! Less is more! If you give up a day, giving your muscles, bones and brains a break, guaranteed you will feel fresher for your next workout, especially if it's a long run, race, tri event, tennis/cross fit tourney! Your body will thank you and you may even score a medal in the process! My reward...my running partner with the RHA's! Priceless!</span></b></a></span><br />
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As always, VeGALs train with a conscience! We are FIRMLY PLANTED!</div>
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-15753712138009949222013-10-24T07:04:00.001-07:002013-10-24T07:05:03.481-07:00Veggin' Out and About!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hey there VeGALs! Great news...I am now a staff writer/contributor for an awesome website called Veggin' Out and About, a restaurant and market guide for the veggie loving traveler, brain child of Danielle Bussone, co-founder/editor, www.vegginoutandabout.com. I get to review vegan/vegan-friendly joints in the South Florida area as well as those cities I may be visiting, usually for a marathon (sometimes just for pleasure). My perspective is different than the other writers in the sense that I am looking for either pre-race fuel or post-race recovery that is whole-foods, plant-based! As it goes for VeGALs, some indulgence is allowed on occasion as a reward like french fries (from a dedicated fryer with veggie oil) or a basket of tortilla chips with fresh guacamole, washed down with a vegan-friendly wheat beer which works better than ibuprofen as an anti-inflammatory agent. For dessert, some dark chocolate or sorbet, perhaps or a bowl of rich and creamy coconut ice cream. VeGALs don't count calories!!! We don't have to since we maintain a steady balance between our work out ethic and our plant-based nutrition. So when we discover a fab new restaurant with delicious vegan fare, we don't hesitate to order practically everything off the menu. Since we train with a conscience, and we are firmly planted, there is no room for guilt!</i></span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-89715341928240556122013-10-08T12:14:00.001-07:002013-10-08T12:14:37.769-07:00The Inadvertent Meat Eat!<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Well, hello there VeGAL (Vegan Girl AthLete, in case you forgot!). And welcome curious non-veg athletic friends. No matter what our diet, it is safe to say we go the distance when it comes to our training! We adhere to a strict fitness paradigm only straying from time to time. For many of us, our strenuous workouts are completed long before most folks even wake up. We are committed (non athletes agree we should be committed!) to our goals. We follow rigid training programs, we design as well as follow hard core work out schedules though we may bitch and moan about it. Bottom line...we don't quit...even when our bodies scream for us to do just that! So for vegan athletes, as well as our meat-eating counterparts, would it not be foolish of us to blow all that intense training by stuffing our faces with junk food??? </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> For VeGALs in particular, we pride ourselves in being meticulous in all that we do, from our neat and tidy and oh so adorable workout clothes to our snazzy shoes to our natural fragrant, flowery scent (hahaha) and our freshly washed (colored!) hair. Naturally, when it comes to our fuel, same rules apply! Whether prepared at home or ordered out at a restaurant, we uphold the highest of standards in our whole foods, plant-based endeavors. VeGALs stay elevated in a mainstream world. That said, we dine out mainstream since basically, we have no choice, especially in the burbs! Questions are posed, suggestions are made in order for VeGALs to remain true to our convictions all the while feeling satisfied as well as nutritionally balanced no matter where we find ourselves! As careful as we are...those taking the orders as well as those preparing the meals unfortunately are not so careful!Which leads us to the INADVERTENT MEAT EAT! Simply stated, it's when a vegan mistakenly bites into something assumed to be "safe" only to find out there was an animal involved!!! YIKES! Surely, VeGAL, this has happened to you before, maybe even more times than you care to mention!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Once such incident occurred a few years ago when I was carbo-loading with my family at an Italian restaurant the night before a local marathon. I had ordered rigatoni with marinara sauce and mushrooms, thinking this meal had the perfect balance for sustained energy. Eager to empty the bowl, without leaving one delicious morsel behind, just when I wasn't looking, I sank my teeth into a brown chunk that was anything but a tender mushroom! It suddenly occurred to me I had taken a bite of beef that probably sneaked its way in disguised as an edible, highly valued fungus! Did I spit it out like a toddler, toss my hands up in disgust and throw a tantrum right then and there? I kept my family in suspense as they looked at me in horror (thar she blows!). But no, I simply released it into a napkin and carried on, to my kids' relief. I realized at that point that it was an innocent error. Had I continued to chew on animal flesh with a big gulp finale, my actions would've been egregious! I had bigger fish to fry, a marathon, the next day. I shook it off and carried on. As it turned out, I earned myself a PR for that course that year! I wouldn't exactly attribute it to the beef bite but more like "that which does not kill you..." </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Just last week, while I had a layover in the Charlotte airport, my travel companions and I decided to kill some time with a light Japanese lunch. I ordered the vegetable pot stickers as an appetizer (I had no intentions of sharing). When they arrived, my chopsticks grabbed hold of one before anyone had noticed. One little bite and I knew it was too late...I had encountered animal flesh right there inside my pie hole! Its origin was a mystery but I had a hunch it was the worst kind...PORK! I give my company a lot of credit for not bursting out in laughter at that point but perhaps they were grinning on the inside (I would've lol). When brought to the food server's attention, she immediately removed them and apologized. To drive home a point, with no mention of my veg status, I had stated that for religious reasons (Jews don't eat pork) that I most certainly didn't order those! The chef then rushed up, reassuring us that the meat was chicken, not pork! That didn't exactly make me feel any better! Luckily, we were presented with a plateful of scrumptious steamed veggie pot stickers to the delight of all, FREE OF CHARGE! Score! It's true that meat, especially the ground, formed kind, masks the subtle nuances present in an array of fresh vegetables. Much to my chagrin, my companions found them equally irresistible, not taking the hint that they were MINE ALL MINE! They can order whatever they want but I am limited with choices and always hungry for goodness sake!!! It is my strong belief that everyone, deep down inside, longs to go veg!</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I wouldn't be me if I didn't ramble on but I hope you get the point, VeGAL! We have all been victims of the INADVERTENT MEAT EAT and will continue to undergo less than savory experiences and that's okay. It is how we choose to react to those awkward, uncomfortable situations that set us apart from the rest of the plant-based community. Just like anything else, we handle them with grace since we are firmly planted VeGALs who train with a conscience (tip: take advantage of the debacle, it might just get you a free meal)! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-38122766966911499932013-09-03T16:07:00.001-07:002013-09-03T16:10:31.125-07:00Mantra? Hardly!!<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Welcome back, VeGAL (Vegan Girl AthLete). Do you happen to have a particular saying, chant or song which serves as your mantra? You know, that little voice in your head that helps to keep you going during a workout or other challenging event. Something that inspires you to dig a little deeper just when you think you cannot go any further. Sure, VeGALs possess internal sources of strength but we should also be prepared to rely on external sources as well, if need be, as our bodies and minds demand it. For me personally, one such mantra is "run it out," a saying that reassures me that my aches and pains upon initiating activity will eventually go away if I remain steadfast. Usually it works but there are those times when we know we are doomed as the pain intensifies and we are suddenly sidelined by an injury. It is then suggested that we shift our focus to another mantra as a coping mechanism for those dark and dismal days should we find ourselves temporarily stripped of our passionate activity (VeGALs do NOT accept permanent restrictions).</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> This VeGAL loves her tunes, especially during those excruciatingly long runs or cardio workouts. Headphones are discouraged on trails runs so as to keep every sense intact for those unforeseen encounters with nature/wildlife. I chanted JT's (you had better know who I am referring to!) "Let the Groove Get In" the entire DTR 13.1 trail run which turned out to be 18 miles due to poorly marked trails!!! I cannot tell you how "instrumental" it was in getting me back on track!!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> Okay, so you get my point, right? Are you thinking of a mantra to adopt? Do you have one you might suggest to hard core VeGALs??</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;">Well guess what...sometimes it's all just a bunch of BS!!! And that is why the purpose of today's blog is to share with you my more popular ritual, stolen from the letters of "mantra," and something I hope every VeGAL can utilize without abusing, too much, that is. I am referring to what I like to call the "a.m. rant." Aha...you know what I'm talking about it, especially if you know me personally! Screw the mantra and go with the rant! Who has time for all that positive energy crap when VeGALs are dealing with kids, work, training, significant others, family, pets, finances, weight/beauty/health issues, etc.? </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> Whether you choose to keep it in your head, take it out on some exercise equipment or bite someone else's head off, the am rant is sometimes the only thing that will suffice! If you are fortunate like me to have a training partner (or many) you trust, who will tolerate it, who listens without judging or at least pretends to listen, then consider yourself blessed! But don't overdo it!!! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;">Try to take turns! It's only fair. Just fake it if you have to (VeGALs can do that!) and remember...what happens on the road/gym stays on the road/gym! One might consider this a negative approach but I find it to be very cathartic. It's all in the name of healing! Of course it is also beneficial to those we had originally targeted to pick a fight with! You see...we can't always have happy thoughts! VeGALs are real gals with real ongoing issues! It can't always be rainbows and butterflies!! So get it out of your system in the wee hours, if that is your ideal workout time. Sometimes you can even have an entire argument in your head that you are able to resolve by the time you finish your training. Something you may have thought about taking up with another person at the risk of severing a relationship may be resolved in that way, before it ever makes it out of your big unfiltered mouth! Best of all, no one is worse for wear! Furthermore, VeGALs can be narrow-minded (a rare occurrence) so having a neutral training partner can help you to be more rational when working through a struggle. </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> My shy and quiet guy (running partner) takes my abuse over and over again. He has mastered both the art of pretending to listen as well as remaining objective. He lets me bitch just about anything, from the asshole running or biking in the dark without a light, to the annoying runner shuffling his feet or the skinny fast bitch on the other side of the road who makes me feel like shit! It can get pretty heavy at times, especially when it comes to dealing with exes. Sometimes trivial, sometimes pretty darn serious! Regardless, the rant is an essential part of the VeGAL workout! But don't lose sight of the value of the mantra! Sometimes a combo plate is needed!!!</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> You say mantra, I say am rant! Conflict? Let's call the whole thing off!!! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Verdana;"> That's it for now! Never forget, VeGALs train with a conscience and are firmly planted. We aspire to be cruelty free with the exception of our training partners! </span></strong>VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-88490806895700092932013-08-25T14:35:00.002-07:002013-08-25T14:36:35.856-07:00Beauty is Skin Deep<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> VeGALs (Vegan Girl AthLetes) get down and dirty no matter the sport! It's all about the grit! Unless your clothes are completely soaked, hair dripping wet, shoes water-logged or feet dangerously slippery, arm pits stinky from sweat then you haven't really worked out, right? We are hard core, through and through! But what about </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #38761d;">when it's time to clean our hard cores as well as all those other parts attached? Let's face it, we don't basically kill ourselves every single day to make our bodies rock hard simply just to chill out! Oh hell no! We want to put on those tight jeans or slip on that cute little party dress for a night on the town to show off the goods! After all, we work hard then we play hard. So when it comes time to wash away all the build up from the day's tough training to get ourselves "gussied up" lol, what we choose to clean our bodies with is equally as important as how we fuel our precious temples! Would it make any sense for VeGALs to use chemical-laden, potentially dangerous conventional bath/shower gels which are massed produced and most likely tested on animals???</span></strong><strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> Of course not! That is why it is essential to read the labels on your fave bath products to ensure they are safe. What you put on your skin will then be absorbed into the skin and ultimately broken down and utilized within our system. This process can then contribute to hormonal imbalances which all women in general are susceptible to.</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> Most mainstream products contain various types of parabens that can mimic estrogen in the body. As it is, VeGALs tend to run low on progesterone due to our intense training as well as our reduced body fat. Many plant foods contain phytoestrogens which, consumed in large quantities, can wreak havoc on the endocrine system, creating estrogen dominance and thus giving way to various diseases. Couple that with the aforementioned parabens in beauty products and you have a recipe for disaster!!! Fortunately for VeGALs (and all the other females who will eventually catch on and join our elite subculture) safer products are now basically at our fingertips, free of all parabens, sulfates, phthalates and even gluten! Naturally, they are cruelty free! Don't be swayed by those companies who claim they are "all natural" and don't be lured by ingredients like cucumber, pomegranate or lavender unless you read the label and familiarize yourself with what is both safe and acceptable! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> It's true that the makers of many popular brands are getting smart to what intelligent consumers demand. In addition, popular supermarkets are now starting to carry healthier versions of the familiar as well as the more boutique brands. But to ensure you will have many high-quality products to choose from, visit your local health food store either in person or online like Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Earth Fare or Tunies. I was thrilled to discover that the big beauty chain Ulta sells a variety of their namesake products that smell delicious and are rich and emollient made with lots of different "girly" ingredients loved by VeGALs! </span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> So carry on, as you were, your chosen discipline, digging deep within to pull out and displace all that grime meant to cleanse your soul! Then pamper yourself with some natural and fragrant TLC from a bottle. Finally, get your smokin' hot and tight ass ready to be showered with TLC by your honey (and no, I don't mean honey from a bee! That is gross! It is a byproduct from an animal!!! )</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d;"> VeGALs represent class as well as sophistication! We train with a conscience! VeGALs are firmly planted! </span></strong><br />
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VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-731997745792494236.post-77843963848259508082013-08-07T07:42:00.001-07:002013-08-07T07:42:16.496-07:00VeGAL: No Freaking Whey!<a href="http://vegalandee.blogspot.com/2013/08/no-freaking-whey.html?spref=bl">VeGAL: No Freaking Whey!</a>: Okay VeGAL, so today you rocked Cross Fit like never before; scored big time on the tennis court; ran 10 miles then took a spin cla...VeGALandeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17891752503812396376noreply@blogger.com0