The Olympics have always been a source of inspiration, but this year, they have captured my heart and imagination like never before. There’s something magical about seeing athletes from all walks of life come together, pushing their limits and achieving greatness. Here are some highlights from the Paris 2024 Olympics that have truly resonated with me as a passionate supporter of holistic wellness.
The Power of Passion and Commitment: Kristen Faulkner’s Journey
Kristen Faulkner’s story is a powerful testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Initially not even qualifying for the Olympic team, Kristen’s journey to becoming a celebrated cyclist is nothing short of miraculous. She started cycling only a few years ago after a beginner class and quickly fell in love with the sport. Kristen quit her job as a venture capitalist in 2021 to pursue cycling full-time and now, she has won an Olympic gold medal in the women’s road race at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her story underscores the importance of passion and relentless commitment, and it’s a beautiful reminder that we can all achieve extraordinary outcomes with dedication.
Body Positivity and the Limitations of BMI
A particularly inspiring story from the Olympics is that of rugby player Ilona Maher, who received criticism for having an elevated BMI. Ilona approached the criticism with grace and humor, highlighting the limitations of BMI as a measure of health. Not only that, but watching the US team earn a medal was incredible. The BMI was not designed for women and is a crude measurement at best. It doesn’t account for lean body mass and fails to provide a comprehensive picture of an individual’s health. Ilona’s performance at the Olympics demonstrates that athleticism and health are multifaceted. Additionally, her attitude and grace are to be admired. Check out her response on Instagram reel here for a dose of inspiration.
Age is Just a Number: The Success of Older Athletes
This year’s Olympics have also highlighted the incredible achievements of older athletes, proving that age is just a number. Simone Biles, at 27, continues to dazzle in gymnastics, while Diana Taurasi, at 42, is competing in her sixth Olympics in basketball. The oldest Olympian is 69-year-old Mary Hanna, an equestrian from Australia. The average age of an Olympic athlete is around 26 years old, making their accomplishments even more impressive. Diana credits her vegan lifestyle for her sustained performance and overall health, which is inspiring to see. These competitors showcase that age does not limit the pursuit of excellence.
Why Vegan Diets are Superior for Athletes
Diana Taurasi is not the only vegan athlete. In fact, there is a definite trend towards plant-based diets in sports. Some athletes adopt a vegan diet strictly while competing. There are many reasons why a vegan diet can be superior to traditional diets for athletes. Plant-based diets are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and promote quicker recovery after workouts. They are also high in complex carbohydrates, the primary fuel source for athletes, and provide ample protein from sources like legumes, nuts, and seeds. Moreover, vegan diets can enhance cardiovascular health and improve circulation, ensuring that muscles receive adequate oxygen during intense physical activity.
Embracing Sustainability: The Olympics’ Commitment to a Greener Future
Plant-based diets are also great for the environment, and I was really excited to see the organizers employ this as a method to reduce the carbon footprint of the Games. This year’s Olympics have made significant strides in promoting sustainability by increasing the availability of vegetarian meals. This initiative supports both the environment and the athletes’ health. It’s wonderful to see such a prestigious event embracing eco-friendly practices, setting a positive example for large-scale events worldwide.
Why Plant-Based Diets are Good for the Planet
Plant-based diets are not only beneficial for personal health but also for the environment. By reducing the consumption of animal products, we can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and reduce deforestation and habitat destruction. The production of plant-based foods generally requires fewer resources compared to animal agriculture, making it a more sustainable choice for feeding the growing global population.
Conclusion
The Paris 2024 Olympics is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of human potential, resilience, and the positive changes we can make for our health and our planet. From Kristen Faulkner’s inspiring journey to the enduring success of athletes like Simone Biles and Diana Taurasi, and the Games’ commitment to sustainability, there is so much to celebrate and learn from. These stories are a powerful reminder that with passion, dedication, and conscious lifestyle choices, we can all achieve greatness and contribute to a better world.
As a lifestyle medicine physician, I always look for lessons that can apply to our everyday lives. The dedication, resilience, and positive changes demonstrated by these Olympic athletes can inspire us to make healthier choices and maybe even embrace a plant-based lifestyle.
If these stories have sparked your curiosity about the power of plants for wellness and health, I invite you to join the waitlist for my upcoming course, “Wellness Powered by PLANTS.” You don’t have to be completely vegan or even want to be vegan to benefit from this course. It’s designed to provide the knowledge, mindset, and support for success, whether you’re looking to make a full transition or simply want to understand the power of food as medicine. Imagine feeling more energized, reducing inflammation, and supporting the environment, all while enjoying a variety of delicious, plant-based meals. Click here to join the waitlist and embark on your journey to a healthier, more vibrant you.
For more tips on plant-based living and wellness, subscribe to my newsletter and stay updated with the latest insights and resources to support your wellness journey. If you or someone you know could benefit from health coaching to optimize wellness or treat chronic disease, book a free discovery call. Let’s keep the Olympic spirit alive in our everyday lives!
Additional Resources:
- Blog on the Benefits of Plant Based Diets for Health
- Watch the GameChangers Movie featuring plant based athletes.
- Join My Upcoming Course on Plant-Based Nutrition and Wellness
By embracing a plant-based lifestyle, you can not only improve your health and longevity but also contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world. Let’s make every day a celebration of our potential to thrive!
