It is actually easier for me to gain muscle now that I am eating plants instead of meat!

Emaline embodies the true essence of a mountain girl. Born and raised in Colorado, Ema, as she prefers to be called, thrives amidst the breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating adventures the mountains offer. Paddleboarding, hiking, climbing, rafting—she embraces every high-adrenaline sport with an infectious passion.

However, Ema’s journey wasn’t always smooth. She faced numerous health challenges, grappling with excess weight and chronic fatigue. Determined to find a solution that would enhance her well-being and digestion, she embarked on a quest for a healthier approach to eating.

Ema’s transformation began when she delved into a wealth of scientific documentaries exploring the merits of plant-based diets. What she witnessed through these eye-opening films, from the cruelty inflicted upon animals to the devastating environmental consequences of animal production, left an indelible mark on her consciousness. Fuelled by her innate love for animals, the choice to embrace plants as her primary source of sustenance became an obvious and effortless one.

Meatless Movement had the opportunity to chat with Ema recently.

Join us as we delve deeper into Ema’s inspiring journey, discovering the profound impact her dietary shift has had on her life, health, and connection to the world around her.

Tell us more about yourself, please

Fruit is my love language!!

Ema Grace

Hello! My name is Emaline. I was born and raised in Colorado and am a ride or die mountain girl. I love paddle boarding, hiking, climbing, rafting, and other high adventure sports.

I struggled with lots of health problems from being overweight, to have no energy. I was looking for ways to eat that promotes health and better digestion. After watching many documentaries on the science behind plant based diets, seeing animal abuse, and seeing the damage that animal production has on the environment. I made the obvious choice of choosing plants over animals. This was so easy due to my love for animals.

Going vegan/ raw vegan was a game changer…

Ema Grace

After going vegan, I became so much more energized and fit. I lost all excessive weight and gained muscle. My digestion healed and my skin cleared up. Even my hair became longer and stronger.

Sometimes I find people really fall back to fast food restaurants, I overcome this by suggesting a local Asian or Mexican restaurant that I know has amazing food with lots of plant options!
How do you feel about being a vegan/vegetarian?

Plants have the needed protein necessary for our bodies. In fact, plants are rich in amnio acids that build muscles in your body

Ema Grace

I know most people disagree with this lifestyle, but it really works for me and helps me feel my best.

I would say to just try. We all know vegetables, fruits, and grains are good for you. So just try adding more into your diet. See how you feel!

You can eat good food that’s healthy too…

Ema Grace

I love good local Asian places or make your own taco salads. My absolutely love smoothies and smoothie bowls. I could live of these.

What are some misconceptions about a vegan or vegetarian? How do you explain or educate?
Not enough protein: this is a huge misconception, protein is easy to get on a plant based diet. You can get plenty on plants. In fact, in most standard diets, we are getting too much protein. Red meat is often linked to multiple diseases. In addition, most standard diets lack fiber and water and other vitamins, so a vegan diet can actually help get in more nutrients as long as you do it right and eat a lot of healthy Whole Foods with tons of variety.

What advice would you give to someone who is new to adopting a meatless diet?

Seriously… plant-based can taste amazing and it’s so delicious!!

Ema Grace

Eat enough. Plants are lower in calories than meat. Your body is used to a low volume of high calorie food like meats and cheese. Now you get to eat more food with higher volume of fiber and water but lower in calories. So make sure to eat plenty. Don’t skip meals, make your portions a lot bigger to fill you up, and keep trying new food. Remember, your taste buds really do change. I remember hating so many fruits and vegetables, but now I can’t get enough of everything.

That’s why I switched to a whole foods plant based diet made up of predominantly raw foods

Ema Grace

People are always amazed that I can eat so much and stay so fit. I am always full of energy and never have headaches, stomach aches, or anything. My non vegan friends are amazed that I am always at the top of my game.

You got this. Do it for you. Do it for the animals. Do it for the environment. Do it for the earth.

Ema Grace

Health & wellness website
Find all the healthy recipes I used to lose 40 pounds and heal my body. 🥭

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all images courtesy of Ema Grace