Try Atarian

As a nutrition person, a common question posed is: "are you a vegetarian?" or "do you follow a certain diet?"

These are completely thoughtful questions. I'm sure they're wondering if I got into the field because I have to follow a certain diet or if I have a strong opinion on eating meat or whatnot. Makes perfect sense. 

My answer? Well, I have staples. I eat somewhat similarly from day to day but I definitely don't follow any diet except a generally healthy one! I shop the outside of a grocery store and whip up my own food. 

I go through phases with food just like my phases with clothing. I also tend to eat like those I live with. When living with my vegetarian roommate, I pretty much was a vegetarian for 2 years. 

Undiagnosed vegetarian?

So the question being...what's the best for preventative health?! 

Vegetarian diets have been linked to lower incidences of chronic disease but they are also the vegetarians that are cognizant of foods they must eat to reach adequate protein intake. And are probably health conscious individuals in general. 
As for vegans? Well I wouldn't tell them it was unhealthy but rather explain the right way to fulfill their nutrient needs. If done correctly, this quote on quote healthy diet still lacks vitamin B12, is deficient in vitamin D & adequate protein, and fills a person with so much fiber that they may have trouble absorbing energy (enough calories). 

If it's for a cause, I suppose that's one thing. But if it's for health...well it shouldn't be. Man created fire for the adaptation of proper food preparation (and warmth?)! I am all about getting back to our roots but more like root vegetables not raw, vegan diets. I worry for those who cover up disordered eating with a generally accepted "healthy" diet and run several miles to boot!

Undiagnosed...?

As for me? I'm a "triatarian". What's that you ask? I will tell you!

It means, I try everything. At least once. Even if it's a plate of CVD* sprinkled with HTN with a side of DM2. And then I moderate back to my daily staples with more experience. And energy (excess calories).  

And let me just say,it is still possible to get such an abbreviated-ridden meal even following a vegetarian diet...

*CVD: cardiovascular disease, 
HTN: hypertension, 
DM2: Type 2 Diabetes