In February 2022, my Doctor suggested that I go into a plant-based diet. I had been diagnosed with Lactose Intolerance my digestive tract wasn’t working properly.
I was feeling, run-down, and bloated, and no matter what I ate it was causing me severe digestive problems. My journey was not an easy one. I had to learn how to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat. I also had to learn going semi-vegan was not an easy task. My taste buds fought me all the way, certain foods just did not taste or look the same. I know, how to cook meat, but cooking vegetables was a new ball game. Herbs and spices had a new meaning for me and I had to learn to cook vegetables not as a side dish, but as the main course of a meal. Tofu is still a challenge, I am still learning how to cook it, but I will learn.
I am not going to lie, the first year, my wallet took a big hit. I had to experiment with different food items to find the best ones for me. Not all supermarkets are the same, they do not carry all the plant-based items, they just carry the items that sell. So, do not be surprised, if you find yourself going to different stores to find all the items you need. Once, you determine, which items are good for you (taste, price, quality) do stick with them. Yes, I have found items that I really enjoyed being discontinued or the manufacturer just when out of business. That is also another frustrating challenge.
Two of the things I missed the most at first were cheese and my favorite milk chocolate bar. Luckily for me, I found “Follow Your Heart” I am in cheese heaven with them, and “Hershey’s” Plant-based chocolates. So yes, a big shout-out to them both. I also learned, how to really cook, not just open a box or a can, and to think I am the greatest chef in the world.
Two years later, I am still learning, I have learned to cook properly my vegetables, I shop wisely, I enjoy my almond milk and I even bake cakes and cookies. I do use sometimes plant-based meats. My holidays are not looking sad and gloomy anymore. My energy has increased, I do not feel bloated and my digestive tract is thanking me for the change. My wallet is also happy, I spent less at the supermarket. I also lost 60 pounds and I feel great, and I have kept the weight off.
Please, do not feel discouraged on this journey, it does take time. If you are the only one in your household doing this, please, do not give up. In my house, I am the only one and yes, it can be non-productive to cook just for you, but your family will come around.
The main goal here is to be healthy, feel healthy, and enjoy the food you eat. Do not give up, this will be the greatest adventure of your life.
as you can see, my effort are starting to improved dramatically or maybe not. I just wanted to let everyone know, you are not alone and we are all here for you. We love you, we are always praying for you and never, ever loose hope. Things might not ever go back to before, but looking ahead it is what really matters. Being a better person and having faith for a better tomorrow is what really matters. We all have made it this far, let’s not quit, so don’t give up. Do what you need to do, home school, work from home, start a new endeavor, work hard to keep what you have. Regardless, you are not alone, we are not alone. 
Editorial
The Poor American 