Bio-Individuality is the thought that not all people are the same. We all have different emotional, mental, and especially nutritional needs. One persons pleasure, is another’s poison. Many times we become so involved with our lifestyle and eating habits, we can become judgmental, and blind to other people who may eat and live differently. I know when I first became plant based, almost 7 years ago, I was so overcome with information on the plant based lifestyle, it shaped my whole reality. Vegan friends, vegan groups, vegan potlucks. It was wonderful to have that type of community, but as I became more aware of myself, I grew more aware of others. Embracing differences is just as important as believing in your own diet and life style. We do not know what other people need, we do not know what other people feel. What we do know is that we are all individuals, and are allowed to make our own decisions.

In my family I have 3 types of eaters. My husband eats chicken, eggs, and occasionally dairy. My kids eat turkey, chicken, eggs, fish, and occasional dairy. And I eat plant based, and am very dairy selective (meaning on rare occasions, I have dairy, and it is only grass fed ghee and butter). What we do have in common is that we all eat TONS of fresh fruits and vegetables. Lots of whole grains, like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal. And we all like to have occasional sweet treats. When I let go of trying to make us all eat the same, I realized we do not have to eat the same, to be happy, healthy, and at the dinner table together. Yes, many would find it strange I am plant based, and prepare my family animal products, but to me, it just makes sense. I want my kids to make their own decisions about what is good for their bodies. I am trying to raise healthy individuals, who listen to their intuition, and decide what makes them feel good and what does not. Here is an example of a real dinner in our home. The sides pictured are curry, coconut brown rice, and sauteed vegetables in coconut aminos.