My Journey to Optimal Health: From Veganism to Nutrient-Dense Eating

Health is a personal journey that often involves trial, error, and discovery. For many, the path to feeling their best is not straightforward. This story traces thirty years of one such journey, beginning with early struggles, moving through various dietary choices, and culminating in a balanced, nutrient-rich lifestyle that supports long-term wellness.

Early Awareness and the Influence of Nutritional Healing

Growing up in the 1970s meant eating a typical diet of processed foods and few fresh options. In my early 20s, I realized this way of eating was not supporting my health. I turned to the book Prescription to Nutritional Healing, which became a foundational guide. It introduced me to the idea that food could be medicine and that healing often starts with what we put on our plates.

This period marked the beginning of a deeper interest in nutrition. I learned about vitamins, minerals, and the importance of whole foods. The book’s practical advice helped me make better choices, but I still faced health challenges, especially joint pain.

Embracing Veganism and Its Limits

In my 20s, joint pain pushed me toward veganism. Veganism significantly cleaned up my diet. I noticed less inflammation and more energy. Veganism worked well in many ways because it eliminated processed foods and increased my intake of fruits and vegetables.

Yet, after some time, I began to feel something was missing. Despite the benefits, I felt fatigued and lacked specific nutrients. This was partly due to my genetic makeup—I have two copies of the MTHFR C677T gene variant, which affects how my body processes B12. Since vegan diets often lack sufficient B12, I was unintentionally depriving myself of a vital nutrient.

Returning to a Cleaner Version of the Standard American Diet

When I began exercising regularly, I realized I needed more protein to aid muscle recovery and growth. This prompted me to adopt a cleaner version of the typical American diet, emphasizing whole, minimally processed foods over fast food or heavily processed choices. I carefully read labels and made an effort to remove unhealthy ingredients.

This phase was about balance. I incorporated organic meats, eggs, and dairy in moderation while continuing to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. The goal was to fuel my body properly without sacrificing the gains I had made in cutting back on processed foods.

Discovering the Power of Fat and Nutritional Shifts in My 40s

By my 40s, my husband and I were eating "mostly clean." We chose organic produce, prioritized vegetables, and maintained an active lifestyle. Still, something was missing. Three books— Lies My Doctor Told Me, Eat the Yolks, and Wheat Belly —challenged many common beliefs about fat, grains, and health.

One vivid memory stands out: walking into Aldi’s dairy section and deliberately choosing full-fat cottage cheese, sour cream, and butter. Fat was no longer the enemy. This shift helped us thrive, improving energy levels and overall well-being.

Transitioning to a Nutrient-Dense Ketogenic Diet

Our next step was adopting a nutrient-dense ketogenic diet. This approach emphasizes healthy fats, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrates. We found that it reversed many health issues, including inflammation and metabolic problems.

Clinical training helped me understand how to apply ketogenic principles safely and effectively. This diet was not just about weight loss but about healing at a cellular level. We focused on quality sources of fat and protein, steering clear of processed foods and sugars.

Home-raised organic beef and pork stored in a freezer

Embracing a Seasonal, Natural Diet

Today, our diet is even more natural and seasonal. We raise our own beef and pork, free from hormones, GMO feeds, and antibiotics. We limit chicken because it is less nutrient-dense compared to other meats we prefer.

Our garden yields fresh vegetables by the season. We eat what is available and avoid forcing foods out of season. This approach keeps meals simple, fresh, and nutrient-rich.

We supplement with organic spices and dairy, always prioritizing quality and nutrient density. Cooking is intuitive—opening the fridge and creating meals from what we have, rather than following strict recipes.

Practical Tips for Those Exploring Nutrient-Dense Eating

• Know your body’s needs. Genetic factors such as MTHFR, BCMO, and ACE variants can shape nutrient requirements.

• Choose whole, unprocessed foods. Focus on organic vegetables, quality meats, and healthy fats.

• Eat seasonally. Fresh, seasonal produce offers the best nutrients and flavor.

• Don’t fear fat. Full-fat dairy and natural fats support brain and hormone health.

• Listen to your body. Adjust your diet based on how you feel and your activity level.

• Supplement wisely. Some nutrients may require supplements.

  
  

Moving Forward with Confidence

This journey shows that health is not about following a single strict diet, but about understanding your body and making informed choices. From veganism to ketogenic eating and now a seasonal, natural diet, each step brought new insights and improvements.

If you are exploring your own path to better health, consider your unique needs and be open to change. Nutrient-dense eating is not a fad but a sustainable way to support your body’s long-term wellness.

Take the next step by evaluating your current diet and experimenting with whole, fresh foods. Your body will thank you for the care and attention.