I Made One Shift & Lost 85 Pounds. Here's How

Just five years ago, I was 85 pounds overweight. I was extremely unhealthy, suffered from anxiety attacks, and 95 percent of my caloric intake consisted of cheese, fast food, and alcohol. Things got so bad that I began considering weight-loss surgery and had a monthly prescription of Xanax. Thankfully, right before reaching my breaking point, I discovered yoga and a plant-based diet. This is where my transformation began.

Most of us have good intentions. We want to be healthy, fit, and have energy to spare. Some attain these goals, but sadly, many do not. So what separates these two groups of people?

Obesity and a reliance on prescription pills are rampant in developed countries all over the world. More than 60 percent of the world's population is overweight, and 59 percent of Americans currently rely on prescription drugs to battle chronic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, poor blood circulation, heart conditions, and more. We need to realize that there's a better way to live.

Non-foods contain modified substances masquerading as real food that accomplish nothing for our bodies. Yet, they are inexpensive, convenient, readily available everywhere, and promoted through various media channels.

Thousands of years ago—way before fast food joints popped up on every street corner—people survived off of real food. Planet Earth is already equipped to sustain mankind with fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, natural starches, and whole grains. People were never meant to find sustenance from processed meats or imitation food created in a factory or fast food restaurant. Non-foods are merely man-made inventions that, frankly, our bodies are better off without.

When I decided to eliminate non-foods, I had to stop finding ways to defend my unhealthy choices. Here are some common excuses for not consuming enough plant-based foods and tips on how to fit healthy eating into your life:

Instead of ordering breakfast or lunch at work, why not just take 20 minutes each night to prepare food to take with you? Find a sunny spot outside and enjoy your healthy homemade lunch in peace while connecting with nature at the same time.

First, you need to stop comparing vegetables to man-made non-foods—or you will never be satisfied. Secondly, purchase a great plant-based cookbook, have fun testing the recipes, and appreciate each meal for what it is: a tasty opportunity to heal your body. If you still think healthy food is boring, rest assured that all you need to do is commit to one week of change. After just seven days of consuming different types of real food, your taste buds will change, and pretty soon you will begin to crave healthy food instead of dreading it.

Another money-saving tip is to learn how to make your own sauces instead of buying brand names from the store. By creating scrumptious dips at home you'll not only save money, but you'll also avoid harmful chemicals and preservatives. Invest in a quality blender or food processor and have fun whipping up your own healthy creations. Preparing your own meals and condiments doesn't have to be a chore. Turn it into a fun new hobby!

The key to optimal health and well-being is to eat as close to the earth as possible. This means consuming a diet rich in plant-based foods. Spending time in nature lifts your spirits and provides a fresh perspective on life, and consuming foods that grow wild in nature can have a similar effect on your body, mind, and spirit.