Everything changed when her elder sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Driven by an unwavering determination to support her sister’s recovery, Suzanne embarked on a journey of discovery. Exploring holistic and plant-based living became her mission. While her sister triumphed over cancer, Suzanne realized that her awakening could be channeled into preventing such health challenges rather than just reacting to them.
This realization prompted a soul-searching solo expedition to the serenity of the Himalayas. Here, amidst the awe-inspiring backdrop, Suzanne immersed herself in yoga, meditation, and nourishing plant-based meals. The experience ignited a renewed sense of purpose that she carried back home.
Meatless Movement recently had a chance to chat with Suzanne.
Motivated by a desire to empower women, Suzanne embarked on a mission that blossomed into her current role as a full-time holistic and plant-based health coach.
Her journey underscores a crucial truth: a wholesome and joyful life is within reach, irrespective of family dynamics or professional obligations. Suzanne’s story stands as a testament to the fact that transformation doesn’t necessarily require drastic measures like quitting a job or waiting for a wakeup call.
With her guidance, anyone can tap into their potential, conquer challenges, and unlock greater vitality, proving that less can indeed lead to more.
Please tell us more about yourself
Hello, my name is Suzanne Saleh, and I am a certified Plant-based Nutrition Coach, author, and yoga teacher. My passion is empowering women over 40 to take back control of their health and live a pain-free vibrant life full of energy and be the best version of themselves. I am originally from Yemen, a British citizen living in the beautiful city of Dubai.
Over four years ago, my family was faced with various health challenges. My mom struggled with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and my big sister battled breast cancer. My sister survived but my mom did not. Everyone who has ever watched their loved one suffer health-wise can relate to how chaotic this moment was for myself and my family. I learned so much during this time and the knowledge I got prompted me to go on a bigger journey of self-discovery.
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A part of my transformation happened in the Home of the Himalayas in Nepal. I learned that it’s not your genes that determine what happens, it’s what you do to those genes. It’s the food you eat, it’s exercise, stress, relationships, your thoughts, your feelings, toxins in your environment, all of it washing over your genes and the good news is, your genes are not your destiny.
The single biggest factors driving our health and determining our lifespan are our daily behaviors– things like sleep, stress management, connecting with like minds and communities, self-care, and finding purpose.
This was the first point where I came so close to eating food “meatless” because we only got vegetarian meals and we did lots and lots of Yoga and meditation. I felt so much peace within and I’ve not stopped since.
It can be tough at times having non-vegan friends but I just focus on enlightening as many people as I can to how much younger I have felt and looked since going meatless. I have also recently published a book “ I Can Make You Vegan” to share my journey, tips and guidance to anyone interested in transitioning.
Vegan is the new way so I do not struggle with finding delicious meals at all. In Dubai for instance, there are loads of restaurants offering vegan meals on their menu. The Emirates airline has amazing vegan options plus I have some really easy and delicious meals and snack recipes for any time I am on the go.
I feel AMAZING! In fact, I feel and look younger than I was ten years ago. Asides from protecting our animal life from unnecessary harm, my body has been attuned to function in the way that it was meant to function which is by getting total nourishment from the endless variety of plants nature has provided us.
Say this with me:
Suzanne Saleh | Vegan Health Coach
“My body is a temple, not a graveyard”
I would invite anyone who has not eaten meatless food to try out some of my many free easy online recipes available on my website or social media. They are bound to fall in absolute love with the bomb of flavors in vegan foods. I am also happy to invite them to my clean eating program launching September 2023 for people who are looking to transition effortlessly into meatless meals.
food
In Dubai, I am a big lover of the scrambled tofu at Menagerie Eatery, Mirdif.
Another of my favorite spots is Mildreds in London. OMG, their classic brunch is out of this world! (scrambled tofu, house baked beans, sausage, roast tomato,
spinach, mushroom, home fries, sourdough toast) You should absolutely try it!
If you want to eat a meal that would turn you Vegan INSTANTLY, then try out my One-pot lentil pasta recipe on PAGE 100 of my book “I CAN MAKE YOU VEGAN” linked here
What are some common misunderstandings about being vegan or vegetarian?
OMG, I have heard and addressed a lot like:
“Vegan Diets Aren’t Satisfying Enough”
“Vegans don’t get enough Calcium, Iron, and Protein.”
“Vegans eat only salads”
“Vegan means to eat only fruits”
“Being vegan means no sweet treats or snacks”
“I cant be athletic and a vegan”
“Vegans Only Care About Animals and Not Humans” These are the common ones.
Plant-based foods generally contain fewer calories compared to animal-based foods. By consuming larger quantities of plant foods within a vegan diet, it is possible to achieve the necessary calorie intake. Incorporating plant-based sources of protein and fiber into your diet can also promote a sense of fullness on a vegan eating plan. This is why adopting a vegan diet can be highly effective for achieving sustainable weight loss. Plant-based foods are rich in antioxidants and lower in fat, which can contribute to reducing the risk of lifestyle-related illnesses like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, among others.
Vegan diets encompass a variety of foods including legumes, beans, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and plant-based milk. The British Dietetic Association also acknowledges that a well-structured vegan diet can support the health of individuals across all age groups.
The high demand for animal products is putting our planet at risk. The production of meat is responsible for 57 percent of the pollution that generates global warming among all the food manufacturing processes. Additionally, it significantly contributes to deforestation and the loss of various animal species. These factors collectively exacerbate the problem of climate change.
For someone who is just starting their journey towards a meatless diet, what advice would you offer?
If you don’t know where to start then head over to www.suzannesaleh.com to GRAB MY FREE RESOURCES.
Feel free to research and explore different tastes, textures, and methods until you arrive at your favorites, and keep an open mind. I would also recommend getting a right-hand person to coach them and help guide them with the transition to ensure you are getting all the nutrients you need that suits your lifestyle.
You dont have to be perfect, take it gradually and dont be hard on yourself if you slip up at times. Find your why, the reason that will motivate you to explore having more plantbased foods and reduce your meat intake, whether its for your health, the animals or our beautiful mother eartth. Join a support group for support or consult with a certified plant based coach for guidance and motivation.
BONUS RECIPE: My favorite Banana Bread Recipe still in my book.
Suzanne Saleh | Vegan Health Coach
🌿 Helping busy mums reach their weight goals
🌿 Plant-based recipes and meal plans
🌿 Yoga teacher & wellness coach
Order my new book on Amazon 👇
all images courtesy of Suzanne Saleh | Vegan Health Coach