In celebration of Vegan Day on November 1st, Conscious Michiana’s President, Leah Benevente, sat down with Selena Alcantar, Youth Program and Event Coordinator at Unity Garden, to discuss the benefits of plant-based living and how Unity Garden supports the community in making healthier food choices.
What is Unity Garden?
Unity Garden is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people with fresh food, nature, and each other. With one main garden and over 45 satellite gardens across Michiana—including South Bend, Osceola, and Marshall County—Unity Garden offers free-pick produce to the community. These gardens vary in size and are maintained by volunteers, making fresh food accessible to all.
Veganism: A Path to Wellness
Veganism involves eliminating all animal products from the diet, including meat, dairy, and eggs. Many people explore veganism to improve digestion, boost energy, and support overall health. Leah and Selena discussed how switching to a plant-based diet can:
- Lower cholesterol and blood pressure
- Reduce inflammation and risk of chronic illness
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Enhance mental focus and mood stability
Nutritional Considerations
While vegan diets offer many benefits, they can also lead to nutrient deficiencies if not properly managed. Key nutrients to monitor include:
- Vitamin B12
- Iron
- Zinc
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Selena emphasized the importance of doing research and learning which plant-based foods provide these essential nutrients. Unity Garden offers resources and cooking classes to help individuals make informed dietary choices.
Food as Medicine
Selena, who studied environmental biology, highlighted the concept of food as medicine. Natural foods are bioidentical to our bodies, meaning they are more easily absorbed and often contain complementary nutrients. For example, broccoli provides both calcium and vitamin D, making it a powerful whole food.
A diverse diet supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for digestion and immune function. Transitioning to vegan meals—even just once a week—can help increase fiber intake and improve overall health.
Unity Garden: A Resource for Change
Whether you’re curious about veganism or ready to make a lifestyle change, Unity Garden is a valuable resource. With a vegan founder, an herbalist on staff, and a commitment to education, Unity Garden empowers the community to explore plant-based living in a supportive environment.
Learn more and find your nearest garden at www.theunitygardens.org.
