PheebsDahNeenja

I don't think meat or dairy is healthy, either. Certainly not on the level of what is recommended in paleo and primal plans. However, my point was that in order for me to be at my physical and athletic best I don't need to eat meat ... which is everyone's advice. People don't understand that being vegan is just as valid an option for losing body fat and building athletic ability. Personally, I was eating what folks call healthy when I did eat meat and/or dairy, and I was not healthy. But, this is a vegan site, so I came here in order to *not* argue about the two options but to associate with those of like mind. Obviously, I made it a lifestyle choice if I've been doing it for so long now ... not looking for a "diet" ... I used that word simply in reference to what we eat. It just so happens that anytime I discuss my desire to change my body composition, people tell me to go paleo or that I can't do it if I don't add meat or fish, etc.

@Mark007 - exactly!

@mrbear666 -- Thank you! That is exactly why I went vegan, or one of the reason. I felt like such a hypocrite loving my animals so much and promoting animal kindness, yet eating meat and diary. I don't know how people train as hard as they do on that diet. I'm healthier than I've ever been. I physically feel so much better on a fruit/plant based diet and I think bananas rule. I can't live without them. I don't worry about fat intake, but like you said, that's a preference. I feel (and look) better with that in my diet. Thanks for your response!

Please tell me more about high carb vegan! And thanks so much.

I am beginning Crossfit, but those guys are actually the least pushy about paleo/primal type of changes. I have a great naturopathic doc who basically tells people that dropping your carbs to that absurdly low level is the only way to burn fat and show definition. Makes me want to pull my hair out. Trainers all around me, fellow athletes and lifters, all tell me that carbs are my downfall. Stop eating fruit, eat fewer starchy carbs. The only thing I get with low carbs is a headache and no energy to train (and, I won't lie, I get really crankypants). I went vegan for health reasons, in part, and I'm not going back. I don't think people realize how much nonsense we are fed all the time with this stuff and that there are many ways to get healthy and be fit ... it has to be one that works for you. I'm glad to have the support! I was being silly trying to talk to people shoving endless amounts of chicken and jerky into their mouths (and very few veggies).

I've been a fan of this site for a long time, but I'm just finally really taking advantaging of it and registering. I am very active and training for a new job that is very physically intense. I've been struggling with losing the last few pounds (10, maybe) and dropping about 7% body fat to be ready for that. I have a lot of athletic, fit people around me trying to be helpful ... but everyone's solution is to eat meat. I know that's not the only option. I've been vegetarian since 1997 (with the exception of about 2 years in there) and vegan for about 2 years. I'm looking forward to chatting with those of like mind here!