Exploring Heart-Focused Plant-Based Eating with Vegan Teen Chef Tabay Atkins

If you find yourself hungry in Orange County, California, don’t miss Tabay Atkins’ innovative food truck that operates out of a gas station. While it may seem like a regular roadside eatery, Tabay's Mindful Kitchen offers an exciting twist—everything on the menu is entirely plant-based.

Although Atkins doesn’t label his food as vegan, each item is free from meat, dairy, and animal products. Despite the unassuming setting, many customers leave thrilled by the flavors and benefits of his wholesome offerings.

Tabay’s Journey to Veganism

At just 12 years old, Tabay decided to embrace a vegan lifestyle, inspired by his mother, Sahel, who overcame cancer. As a child, Tabay witnessed his mother's strength during her recovery following grueling chemotherapy treatments. “I got into yoga after my mom beat cancer,” Tabay recalls. Through her practice, Sahel found resilience, which motivated him to explore yoga himself. With the support of their community, Tabay and his mother delved into plant-based living. A pivotal moment occurred during a flight back to California when Tabay felt unwell after eating a chicken pasta meal. “I said, ‘Okay, that’s enough. I’m going vegan now,’” he shares. Watching the documentary "What the Health" added to their resolve, ultimately leading Tabay to adopt a whole food, plant-based diet (WFPB).

Mindful Kitchen Food Truck

While Tabay advocates for a whole food, plant-based diet, he ensures his menu offers a range of options. “Some people aren’t familiar with veganism or have misconceptions,” he states. By creatively naming dishes such as “f’sh tacos” and “beaf burger,” he introduces diners to plant-based eating without labeling it explicitly as vegan. Tabay’s journey to owning a food truck has been a dream in the making. His 36-foot custom truck operates from a gas station in Dana Point, California, where he and his mother collaborate. “This is something we really wanted to do,” says Tabay, clearly passionate about the experience.

The Interconnection of Veganism and Yoga

As Tabay learned more about veganism, he recognized its alignment with his yoga philosophy. The principle of "ahimsa," or non-violence, became a guiding force in his choices, reinforcing his commitment to animal welfare and environmental issues. “I became an advocate for stopping animal cruelty,” says Atkins. He also notes the ecological benefits of a plant-based diet, affirming its positive impact on carbon emissions, deforestation, and water usage.

The Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

Research backs up Tabay’s enthusiasm for plant-based eating. A comprehensive review reveals that transitioning from a traditional Western diet to a whole foods-based diet can lead to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

Health Benefits

Numerous studies indicate that a plant-based diet can yield remarkable health benefits, including:

• Lower risk of certain cancers
• Decreased likelihood of heart disease
• Reduced risk of diabetes
• Mitigated cognitive decline

For instance, a study involving over 200,000 participants found a marked lower risk of heart disease among those who consumed a diet rich in whole, unprocessed plant foods.

Tabay’s Guide to Transitioning to Plant-Based Eating

For anyone interested in adopting a plant-based lifestyle, Tabay offers practical advice:

Take It Step by Step

“Transitioning to a plant-based diet is a journey,” he emphasizes. Rather than diving in headfirst, consider making gradual changes.

Embrace Home Cooking

Cooking at home can save money and help avoid processed foods, allowing for a more wholesome dietary experience.

Utilize Technology

Tabay recommends using the Happy Cow app to locate nearby vegan eateries effortlessly.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Naturally

Instead of refined sugars, Tabay favors using dates and jaggery as sweeteners. Dates are rich in fiber and antioxidants, while jaggery, made from sugar cane or dates, retains essential nutrients. However, it’s vital to recognize that jaggery still contains sugars.

Conclusion

Through his culinary endeavors and yoga teachings, Tabay Atkins aims to promote the joys of plant-based eating. His guiding principle encapsulates the essence of his mission: “Think good thoughts, speak kind words, feel love, be love, and give love.”

Crystal Hoshaw is a writer, dedicated mother, and seasoned yoga instructor, sharing mindful self-care strategies through online courses. You can find her on Instagram.