As a cook, recipe innovator, writer, speaker and photographer, Melissa Haithcock, is passionate about teaching others about the benefits of adopting a healthy plant-based lifestyle. Using her blog, ‘A Happy Healthy Heart’ to share her vegan values through a beautifully curated catalogue of nutritious meat and dairyfree dishes, Melissa has earned a loyal and growing following who too have come to share the theory of, what you choose to put in your food, is what you will get out. And you know what? We think she’s spot on. The moment you feast your eyes on her stunning food photography, and read about her passion for health-boosting foods, you’ll understand why. Prepare yourself for a possible influx of cabbage and quinoa cravings, or just one potential massive hunger rampage. (Don’t say you weren’t warned).
Can you tell us a little bit about your own plant-based journey?
My food journey has been one that was completely unexpected but has been incredibly important for me and my family. I grew up as a very picky eater whose diet consisted mostly of Southern-American cooking including; fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and buttery biscuits. About three years ago I began researching the pros and cons of eating meat and dairy, and since then I began developing my own opinions on why being a plant-based eater is best for one’s health. I read a research book called The China Study during the start of my journey and it changed my world. I began to understand health from a medical, scientific, and overall wellness perspective. To me, being healthy starts with eating the most nutrient-dense foods that the world has to offer and I believe those foods are plants.