Russell and Al Dine at Red Bamboo!

Thank you, thank you to the Today Show for a great little segment on this morning’s show called Vegan 101.  It was educational, informative and very positive!  The best part was when Russell Simmons took Al Roker to his favorite NYC restaurant Red Bamboo to sample a table full of amazing looking food.  Since I have eaten there twice (thank you, Derek for introducing me to that place and returning with me again on our last family trip to NY) I can definitely attest to how insanely amazing the food is at this all vegan joint in the village and highly recommend it!

Just a couple of images taken off the page after doing a Google search for images of Red Bamboo.

The pros and cons were shared.  On the pro list were many health benefits such as lower cholesterol, higher fiber intake, healthier for the cardio-vascular system and often a lower weight/BMI than animal eaters.

The list of cons, weren’t really cons, at all.  They included needing to supplement our vitamin B-12 (as that is only found in animal products).  Many animal eaters need to take B vitamins anyway, and it’s easy enough to get amble B-12 by sprinkling cheesy flavored nutritional yeast (not to be confused with brewers yeast which is bitter) on…almost anything/everything–or taking a supplement if necessary.  Of course, making sure ample protein is consumed was on the list, but that’s an easy one –if you are eating healthfully, including nuts and beans in your daily diet, there shouldn’t be a problem–even for an athlete!

It was also good to hear them include how good a vegan lifestyle is for the environment.  Even taking just one day a week, like Meatless Monday, makes a huge POSITIVE impact on our planet, and of course the animals.

Russell Simmons has a book out called the happy vegan.  If you are not familiar with who he is, Simmons is a business magnate who, amongst other things, co-founded the hip-hop music label Def Jam and started a few clothing lines, including Phat Farm.  He balances his very busy ying business life with yoga and daily meditation.  He also authored a book on meditation called Success Through Sitting.

Thank you to Deepak Chopra for another great meditation this morning.  Earlier in the week he suggested saying “thank you,” in place of “yes.”  This immediately brings more gratitude to you.   Today’s centering thought was:

“Every thankful moment makes me healthier.” 

I am grateful to you for coming in and taking a peak at peaceandfitness, this morning.  Thank you!