My First All-Inclusive Resort Vegan Eating Experience
I just returned from my sixth annual trip to the all-inclusive resort I go to each January. The difference is that this year I became a vegan. I had been vegan for a full six months and I knew the usual offerings at the main buffet-style meals at this resort, so I wasn't exactly worried. But I must say that I did approach my meals much differently than in the past. I view my new way of eating (WOE) as an abundant lifestyle. I actually feel downright gluttonous at times. How could I not have known before that the right food choices would not only satisfy my appetite, but also make me feel so much more alive? People ask me about my new vegan way of eating and I begin to tell them. The first question I get is, "So you eat no meat? No dairy? and No eggs?" My response of course is "That's right, but..." And then I am cut off as they begin to tell me "Oh, I could never do that. I could never give up (fill in the blank)." Usually the blank is filled with fish, chicken, yogurt, creamer for coffee, etc. What I can tell you is that I didn't search out being a vegan, veganism found me as I was searching for the solution to a lifelong weight struggle. When I learned that the foods that were causing my swelling were the same ones that vegans eliminate from their diets, I was in. I do not view this WOE as a deprivation eating plan. I feel quite the opposite. The best word to describe my new WOE is "Abundant." Other words are satisfying, calming, happy, and nourishing. Take your pick. What is it that you want out of your WOE?
So, back to the question, "What does a vegan eat at an all-inclusive resort?" The picture above demonstrates a filling breakfast. It includes boiled potatoes with salsa, whole grain bread, fresh and dried fruit, nuts, cooked plantains with onion and a little peanut butter.
And what about lunch?
This lunch included my usual "rice and beans bowl" with cooked squash thrown on top. I also threw sliced kale in the bottom of my rice and bean bowls (hidden below rice). You will also see a fresh salad with balsamic vinegar, fresh fruit, green beans and sauteed bananas.
Another similar lunch...
included a rice and beans bowl with fresh mustard greens, fresh fruit, pumpernickel bread and boiled potatoes.
One more lunch...
included a rice, salsa, kale and mixed cooked vegetables. Also you will see a fresh salad, fruit, bread and potato.
The key for me to stick with a plant-based eating program is to feel satisfied during and after the meal. To make that happen I need the following elements to be part of the meal: variety of textures and tastes, a full plate (or bowl) of food (must fill me up), and some starch (Atkins couldn't have been more wrong). I used to believe, like many of you, that protein (and lots of it) was what held me over to the next meal. Dr. John McDougall's teachings have helped me to realize that it is starch (complex carbohydrates) that do that. There is an abundance of starch and protein in any of the meals shown above. I was never unsatisfied with any of the meals I had. I was happy and filled.
Ok, so what about dinner on the resort? At the buffet there is never a problem. There are plenty of foods to avoid, but how much does one need to have a plentiful meal? My answer: one full plate. So walk around and get an idea of what is being offered. Then decide how to fill your dinner plate. Look for your starch (potato, rice, grains, bread, etc.). Then add fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods that look too oily or any that seem that might have added butter or other dairy products.
If you are eating at a resort restaurant, rather than a buffet, check out the menu and look for the vegetarian/vegan option. If you don't see one, ask your server. I ate in three different restaurants at this resort (Iberostar Punta Cana), and my servers were always able to accommodate my eating plan. Trust me, you won't be the first person who asked. I was happy with each meal and proud of myself for sticking with my WOE.
Usually, when on vacation, I usually have to take Pepcid (antacid) to not get heartburn and struggle (like most others) with constipation. This trip was different on both counts. I felt better physically than I ever have on this vacation.
I remember when I first began this way of eating, probably 2 months in, I told some friends about it. One of them said, "I give it 2 months." They couldn't have been more wrong. This is the best decision I have ever made and I am thankful my husband chose to join me. If you want to try this WOE, I support and commend you. You won't regret it!
Here is a photo from this year (vegan):
Here is a photo from last year (swollen from inflammation and searching for answers):
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