So this may be a little longer than your typical podcast, but maybe you will be able to relate to his story because it may resonate with you. If you grew up like so many of us did, RAISED TO BE OBESE.
Michael Strahl unravels his journey by watching his father decline over the course of 25 years. He suffered sickness early in life and saw some of those same flaws in himself, not only in the mirror and on the scale, but in the way he felt the entire time. Michael suffered from severe anxiety and depression for years before realizing what he was inputting into his body, i.e. the food he was eating and the medications he was taking. If we are what we eat, shouldn't we be more thoughtful for our own sake? He never quite felt himself, probably due to the SSRI's (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) medications, which really only masked the issue. While some medications are sometimes needed, we never really want the body to have to rely on outer stimuli because they affect other aspects of ourselves which aren't always beneficial. It should function as intended but we also need to fuel our body properly in order for it to function in the right manner.
He decided during his journey that he wanted to retake control of his life. He educated himself with new information that is available to all of us. During this time he came across a 2011 film, "FORKS OVER KNIVES", by Lee Fulkerson (available on @YouTube ), where they discuss the correlation between eating gluten and suffering from anxiety and depression. He had nothing to lose, except the anxiety he was dealing with, and he slowly weened himself off of his medication while switching to a life style of plant based, vegan, gluten free eating. He lost over 50 lbs., no longer requires the anxiety medications, and describes it as a "life changing experience".
We all deserve to feel our best, but are we doing our part? Michael and his partner, Pat Charity, opened Sweet Soul Bakery because she's an amazing chef and to provide that which supports, fuels and places you on the right path to wellness. Eating better doesn't mean you have to give up flavor, but more importantly it will help you feel better in so many ways. Have a listen, take some breaks if you need to! We hope you enjoy the podcast and start introducing yourself to a more plant based way of life. Your body is depending on it. Check out their savory foods on Saturdays as well, they're not just a delicious bakery, they offer many organic, gluten free delicious options, some that come from other local and small business owners as well. Start living a better way of life. Visit them in St. James at 454 Lake Avenue soon, and check out their website as well, @sweetsoulbakery.com. You can find out more on Facebook and Instagram @sweetsoulbakeryny. #CAUSEEVERYBITECOUNTS
