As an individual, I have been moving over to a more plant-based diet for probably around the last year or so. However, one thing I do struggle with is then bringing along my family onto that journey with me. Although I know that the principles behind it can often be enough to swing them over to a more plant-based diet in theory, sometimes the reality of their reaction when food lands on the table can be quite different.
So if you’re also looking to help your family transition to a more plant-based diet whether it be because of Veganuary or longer-term health and wellness reasons, and wondering how to get them to come round to your way of thinking, and eating, today we have leading plant-based nutritionist Healthy Emmie to share her top tips for helping your family to adopt a more plant-based diet.
1. Cook for them
Who doesn’t love food? There are plenty of plant-based recipes available for free online. Keep it whole-food, plant-based and oil-free.
2. Focus on what they should eat, not what they shouldn’t eat
Use the process of “crowding out” to fill their plates with more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes to crowd out the animal products.
3. Don’t reprimand them
Punishment and positive lifestyle changes don’t mix well. Focus on positive reinforcement so that they can associate feeling proud and capable with eating plant-based.
4. Be patient
Lifestyle changes are hard and take time. The slower you go, the faster you get there. Forcing them to move quickly is stressful, tiring, and won’t produce long-lasting changes. You may want to start by getting your family to help plant some sprouting seeds in your garden, as this will likely make them more enthusiastic and engaged.
5. Make it fun
Try a new recipe, have dinner with a movie, or pair plant-based with a game night to make the entire experience enjoyable.
6. Watch the documentaries
Forks Over Knives and What The Health are my favorites.
7. Set a challenge
Challenge them to see if they can do one plant-based for the next 7 days.
8. Get moving
Daily movement increases self-esteem and promotes an entire lifestyle shift.
9. Ask them how they’re feeling
Check-in with them. How can you best support them this change?
10. Do your best, but don’t exhaust yourself
Ultimately, we all make our own decisions for ourselves. Do your best to help them, but don’t make it a full-time job.
Are you hoping to move your family over to a more plant-based diet? What challenges have you experienced in doing this? Or perhaps you have a good news story to share> Why not leave a comment and let us know below.
