Vegan? Plant-based? Vegetarian? Curious?
Don and Kate Reed of Warren are working to establish a group that will meet for vegan, plant-based, and vegetarian meals, share information and camaraderie, and encourage local establishments to branch out.
“My wife and I have been whole food plant-based (WFPB) for almost five years,” Don Reed said. “Our reason was health-related.”
WFPB is a step beyond vegan.
“It takes a vegan diet — avoiding animal products — a major step further by consuming minimally processed foods including whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes,” Reed said. “A WFPB diet is really a lifestyle rather than a diet.”
“We took this step because of personal and family health issues including cancers, diabetes and heart disease,” he said.
“Janeen and John Beard, of Crooked Cabin Farm in Russell, suggested we read ‘The China Study’ by Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Thomas M. Campbell II. The book discusses Dr. T. C. Campbell’s research and some of the over 300 independent studies showing a direct correlation between many cancers, including breast and prostate, and diabetes and a diet of meat and dairy products.”
“Dr. Campbell gave a presentation for the Warren community and local health professionals at the Library Theater several years ago,” Reed said. “Since then, a growing number of people have become aware of the benefits of healthy eating for an active lifestyle.”
The Reeds did some research on their own.
“We read extensive studies and suggest the Forks Over Knives and The Game Changers documentaries for people interested in more information,” he said. “The book ‘How Not to Die’ by Dr. Michael Greger addresses specific illnesses and diseases which can be prevented or reversed with a WFPB lifestyle.”
“Our knowledge has grown as we have attended and volunteered at VegFests in Florida, Cleveland and Buffalo as well as sailing on a vegan cruise several years ago,” he said. “We also now understand the impact on animals and the environment in bringing food to our table and lean toward a vegan lifestyle.”
“Our hope is to gather with other like-minded people, to encourage our local restaurants to offer vegan options,” Reed said. “At this time the choices are very limited.”
The inaugural gathering is a vegan dinner set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17, at Pellegrino’s Deli, 449 Conewango Ave., Warren.
“If you are vegan, plant-based, vegetarian or interested in learning about a vegan lifestyle, join us for stromboli, pizza, salad, drinks and more,” Reed said. “Reservations are required,” he said. “Please call (814) 723-4520 by Monday, Nov. 15.”
