Paleo Diet with Ease–– the Mixitarian Way

First off, a mixitarian is an actual diet unto itself- an extension of the paleo diet to be exact. This way of eating is basically “Paleo Lite”, where you add in “carefully chosen grains, legumes and natural sweeteners” to your caveman-esque menu.

We’re also at the end of our TPL rundown of the most popular eating plans available right now. I bet you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all the options. Never fear, because today, we’re going to mix things around a little to make the perfect combo for your mind, health and bod.

Let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to be a Mixitarian + grab my quick tips to ease yourself into any of the diets we’ve discussed this month.

A traditional Paleo Diet includes:

• Grass-fed meat
• Seafood
• Fresh fruits and vegetables (including avocado)
• Eggs
• Nuts and seeds
• Coconut and olive oil
• Honey, in small amounts

Now you can add in small amounts of items like these:

• Quinoa
• Brown rice
• Black beans
• Chickpeas
• Lentils
• Maple syrup

This way, you can still get some of the carbs you crave without packing in too many extra calories with processed breads and cereals. And if you’ve found you’re highly susceptible to those flu-like symptoms we discussed last week, this should help curb those groggy feelings.

Now, you can also become your own mixitarian, by combining or adjusting the rules of any of the eatings plans we’ve covered: intermittent fasting, plant-based, paleo diet or keto. As I have said many times before, this is not a one-size-fits-all process. You will have to explore and investigate how your body reacts to different diets and eating schedules. Knowing this will keep you feeling fabulous!

Here are a few quick tips to help you begin your journey toward healthier eating, no matter which direction you choose to venture.  

Start By Swapping Out Your Oils

Chances are that you’re using some kind of hydrogenated oil in your cooking or baking, and so, you’re literally coating your healthy choices with something unhealthy. That’s a no-win scenario.  I recommend switching to olive oil for low-heat sautés and roasting and for dressings and dips; coconut or avocado oil for baking and cooking at 350 degrees and above; and, if your chosen diet allows it, ghee (clarified butter) for baking or browning. It’s a simple substitution that can add more healthy Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, without requiring you to sacrifice taste or how you already cook.

Stop Staring At The Exit

Stop wasting your energy and brain power thinking about all the foods you are not “allowed” on your eating plan. Shift your perspective to the delicious variety of foods that you do get to enjoy and start using your imagination to discover new recipes and combos that can become your new go-tos.

In addition, if you decide to try out a new meal plan for 6 weeks, but spend days thinking of it’s end, you are missing the point. This process is about lifestyle changes, not quick fixes. You’ll eat a cupcake again, I promise. But hopefully when you do, you’ll realize that just one (or even half) is more than enough to satisfy your newly trained taste buds.

The Cavemen didn’t care about the time of day

Who says you can’t eat quinoa and mushrooms for breakfast? Or eggs for dinner? Don’t be afraid to break with traditional ideas of what mealtime should look like – our earliest ancestors certainly didn’t when food was scarce. Base your meals off your biological clock, not the one on the wall. If your tummy does better with vegetables in the morning instead of bacon and paleo pancakes, go for it! 🙂

Berry Nice

If you love fruit, opt for berries over traditional options like apples and oranges, which contain more sugar. Plus, these tiny but mighty babies are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and fiber, perfect for your diet.

Diets don’t have to be expensive

It’s very common to start a new eating plan and jump on the bandwagon of products that are supposed to make the transition easier for you. But packaged “paleo” snacks or keto-inspired smoothies can contain hidden processed ingredients and preservatives that you’re better off avoiding. That is not to say that there aren’t some great, organic companies out there creating homemade meals in the grocery space. Just keep your money in your pocket until you know whether you even like your new diet because you will need to make adjustments.

And don’t forget that the biggest key to success is having support. Reach out to me in the comments below or on Facebook or Instagram, so the Moniqua Plante Wellness community and I can cheer you on!

LOVE + Hello, sunshine!