30 Day Challenge: Stick to the VB6 Diet

The VB6 Diet

I consider myself to be a healthy eater but there is always room for improvement. I would like to eat healthier and be more mindful about what I eat. I am a pescetarian and try to eat a mostly plant-based diet filled with fruits and veggies. My primary weakness is my propensity to eat processed foods even though I know that it’s healthier not to eat as many. I could eat Honey Nut Cheerios three meals a day if given the option.

Mark Bittman created the VB 6 Diet after doctors told him that he was overweight and pre-diabetic. They told him that he’d either have to take preventative drugs or adopt a vegan diet. He decided to be “flexitarian,” meaning that he’d be vegan before 6:00 pm. The diet includes lots of vegetables, fruits, grains, but stipulates that you not eat meat or dairy before 6:00 pm. After 6:00 pm you can eat meat and dairy in moderation.

Mark categorizes food as “Unlimited Foods,” “Flexible Foods,” and “Treats.” “Unlimited Foods” like fruits and veggies can be eaten in unlimited amounts. “Flexible Foods” like beans, nuts, and whole grains can be added to meals all day. “Treats” like dairy and meat, can be eaten after 6:00 pm. You aren’t supposed to eat processed foods, but Mark admits that he will sometimes eat a candy bar.

I like that the diet doesn’t include calorie counting or major restrictions and instead has an emphasis on the importance of mindfulness and moderation. I’m excited to give the VB6 Diet a try this month. I’ll be sharing vegan recipes from his book, Pinterest, and my imagination along the way!