Since the plant-based movement has taken off, there’s a lot of information and opinions circulating out there in social media world. You may have a desire to eat more plant-based but think one or more of these myths are true and it’s holding you back. That’s why I want to take some time today to address these really common myths people believe about adopting a fully plant-based diet and hopefully clarify why they aren’t true.

Myth #1: It’s too expensive

Plant-based eating is for everyone, not just the 1%. It may seem overwhelming at first but a well-planned plant-based diet can be easily affordable. It just takes… planning! Some of the least expensive food on this planet is plant-based (e.g. lentils, beans, oats, bananas, potatoes, rice).

Myth #2: It’s so restrictive

First off, you have the option to eat whatever you want. Eating plant-based is not about restriction but rather freedom of choice. It’s not that you “can’t” eat those foods it’s that you “choose not to” for whatever reason it is you believe in. You hold the power.

Myth #3: I won’t get enough protein

You can get more than enough protein on plant-based diet even without supplementing. Optimal (not minimal) protein recommendations for the average man and woman are 56 g/day and 46 g/day respectively (RDA, NIH). “People are actually more likely to suffer from protein excess than protein deficiency.” -Dr. Greger

Myth #4: I could never do it

Yes you can! This is the silliest of all the myths, because you can do anything you set your mind to as long as you have a strong enough WHY. Ask yourself what’s your reasoning for going plant-based (e.g. health, environment, animals) and use that as motivation to continue your journey. And just remember, you’re not striving for perfection, you’re simply making changes that align with your beliefs.

Myth #5: I’ll have to eat all day

You may have to eat a larger volume of food because most plants are naturally less calorie-dense than their meat and dairy counterparts but again, if you plan it out well, you won’t have to eat more frequently than usual. And by the way, who has ever complained about getting to eat MORE food?

Eating more plants can come with its challenges. There’s a lot of nutrition noise out there, everyone has an opinion, and it can be confusing to figure out what works best for YOU. Working through these challenges and learning how to easily incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet and lifestyle can be helpful. Working with a plant-based dietitian to guide you through your unique journey and surrounding yourself with other like-minded people who are on a similar journey can be monumental. When you join my nutrition coaching program, you’ll get a highly customized, one-on-one experience to help you confidently and sustainably eat foods that taste good and make you feel good. Click the button below to learn more about my approach and see what other clients have to say .