Miss February

How long have you been vegan?  I have been vegan since March 2012.

Why did you become vegan?  I have always had issues surrounding diet and nutrition; struggling with bulimia, and using fad diets to achieve short-term success. In late 2011, I had finally had enough and desperately needed to make a change. After reading The China Study and watching several documentaries including, Forks Over Knives, I transitioned to a plant-based diet. I know I am doing the best thing for my body – not to mention environmental and ethical issues.  I have compassion for animals and am now an advocate for vegan and cruelty-free living in all areas. It is wrong to inflict unnecessary suffering and death on animals and it is 100% possible to live a full, healthy and strong life without harming other living things. There is no need to take beautiful things from the world in order to improve ourselves.

 

How was your transition?  My transition to a plant-based diet was relatively simple. I was (and continue to be) on a path to live as healthy as possible. Since becoming vegan and training regularly, I have lost over 130 pounds. At the beginning of my weight loss journey, I leaned there was room for improvement in terms of what foods I was putting into my body. I continued to learn as much as possible and  wanted to implement as many positive changes as I could. I believe in making small changes over time to ensure sustainability and success in a lifestyle change.

What is the funniest misconception(s) that you have heard about vegans?People are always surprised when I tell them I am vegan. Most people believe that vegans are thin, weak and lacking in energy. This is far from the truth! I do not judge others for the choices they make, but work to share my viewpoint and success story with them. Sometimes, I find myself frustrated by the choices others make – especially those who I love. As a nation, we are overfed and undernourished. We are overweight and sick. We are killing ourselves. People are addicted to foods that cause disease. This blows my mind! Medication and surgery are not the best ways to solve a problem; they are drastic measures taken to cover up what could have been prevented. When given the correct fuel the human body has amazing healing potential. As vegans, we must stand strongly united and continue to bring our message to the forefront while defying stereotypes every day!

What is your Favorite thing(s) about being a vegan?I love that I live a cruelty-free life and defy stereotypes. Eating a plant-based diet has been incredible in my recovery from intense training sessions. I noticed a big difference in muscle soreness which allows me to hit it hard in the gym again sooner!

What do you think makes a Sexy Bad Ass Vegan?  A Sexy Bad Ass Vegan is someone who exudes passion and confidence every day. We are bold and daring; risk takers and dreamers. We take action and stand firmly in our beliefs. Sometime this means standing alone, but we stand firmly and own it.

What is the best vegan dish that you make in your kitchen?

What are you waiting for?! Try it (you’ll like it)! Begin by adding in a smoothie every day. Over time, the body will adjust to all of the delicious nutrients you are fueling with and you will no longer crave junk filled with sugar, salt and oil. Eventually, all of your meals will be plant-based (no vegan junk!) and you will feel and look the best you ever have.