Nutrition is NOT a Religion!

Nutrition is NOT a Religion!

 

Hey guys!

New video. It’s kind of a rant.

Today I wanna talk about something that’s been on my mind for the past several months. I noticed that every time I post something related to food or nutrition, I get a ton of comments hating on the way I eat!

People telling me that I’m so unhealthy and such a terrible role model. That I’m eating too low carb, too low fat, too much protein, not enough calories, too many calories, that I just love eating chicken periods and cow pus.

Look, I am all for learning, understanding, and making wise decisions for my own life and my own body, which, mind you, is VERY DIFFERENT than yours…so why do you feel like it’s ok to put down what I do and praise your way of eating?

What bothers me most is that I’m seeing the healthy living community break off into little cults that don’t want to accept one another’s views. There are the clean eaters, the IIFYMers, the vegans, the raw vegans, the low carbers, the paleo people, the gluten free bunch…

From reading the comments I see on my own posts and others, I can see the rise of religion in the healthy eating world. I don’t like it because you know what I see? I don’t see people sharing information for the genuine purpose of helping people. I see people yelling at others, telling them they’re wrong, and IMPOSING their ideas upon others with no room to breathe.

Stop making it like a religion because nutrition isn’t a religion!

By treating one way of eating as THE way, you’re saying that anything beyond “the way” is sinning. Anyone not following YOUR way is a sinner.

My body is different than yours. What works for me, may not work for you. What works for you may not work for me! I was pescatarian for 4 years. I tried being vegan for a little bit. But now I just eat clean. And I’ve been doing that for the longest time. It’s the most sustainable for me.

And you know what? It makes me happy. It gives me energy to teach all my classes, work out hard, and a run a business. It’s given me the results that I want and it’s easy for me to embrace it in my lifestyle. Anyone who says that I have no energy for my workouts according to the way I eat, I invite you to take my POP Pilates classes and be my gym buddy for a day.

It’s very much like working out. You’ve got to find the one that works for you! If you wake up just loathing your next workout, then you need to find something else. For me, it’s Pilates, dance and weight lifting. For you it may be Zumba, Crossfit, Yoga, or Running! The best workout is the one you look forward to. The one you can stick to.

Look, I care about you. I care about your health. And I will share with you everything I know. That’s why I started Blogilates. But never, will I EVER impose my beliefs on you and shame you for not being the way I am. Because my way isn’t the only way…it’s one of the MANY ways you can get fit.

Your food and the way you eat is your decision. Feel free to experiment. See what works. See what doesn’t. You body is smart. It will positively react to what it likes and negatively react to what it does not like.

True story. I got an email last week from one of you guys asking for an exchange on the 8 Week Hot Body Meal Guide. Originally she had bought the Vegan Plan but now wanted the regular. I thought it was pretty abnormal…like if you’re vegan, you should probably stick to the vegan plan right? Well turns out she had just gone to the doctor to seek advice on a bunch of internal health issues. After getting her blood test results back, her doctor told her that she really needed to get off of her vegan diet in order to nurse her body back to health.

Personally for me, I noticed that when I cut dairy out of my diet, my skin looks way better and I don’t get pimples. I also notice that when I eat bread and rice, I bloat super easily and my intestines get uncomfortable. So I don’t eat it too much of it anymore. It’s all trial and error.

Please remember that there is no one diet for all people. We’re all made of up different cells and different genes. We’re from different cultures. Different families. We all have different nutrient needs based on who we are. It’s as simple as that.

So guys – the moral of today’s rant is this. Nutrition isn’t a religion. Eat the healthiest diet that makes you happy.

Never impose your beliefs on anyone else. Live to learn and live to share. There is not one right way. There are MANY RIGHT WAYS.

Peace on POPsters! Love you.

<3 Cassey

PS: OH! And for the record. People who are saying that my “What I eat in a day” video is irresponsible and that I am eating 1200 calories, I am not sure where you got your information from. I don’t count calories anymore, but the overwhelming attack on my food intake called for this calculation. So here it is.

Breakfast: Banana Pancakes with Raspberries

272 cals, 33g carbs, 10g fat, 14g protein

Post workout: Strawberry Banana Protein Smoothie

311 cals, 44g carbs, 5g fat, 23g protein

Snack: Celery and Hummus

113 cals, 13g carbs, 6g fat, 5g protein

Lunch: Seafood Salad with Asian Peanut Vinaigrette Dressing

337 cals, 18g carbs, 7g fat, 48g protein

Dinner: Creamy Chicken Apple Lettuce Wraps

374 cals, 32g carbs, 3g fat, 51g protein

Dessert: Raspberry White Chocolate Quest Cookies

190 cals, 23g carbs, 8g fat, 20g protein

TOTAL: 1597 cals, 163g carbs, 39g fat, 161g protein

Also please keep in mind that this is a random snapshot of what I eat in a day in the summer. Some days I may eat more or less. It just depends what’s on the menu.

PPS: My vegan beauties out there, I hear ya on the ethical front. I think if people were to kill their own meat, it’d be a different story. There would be less meat consumed. I 100% agree that the way slaughterhouses kill animals is inhumane and horrendous. I think everyone should educate themselves on this topic instead of being completely blind and emotionless to the situation. You guys are correct that veganism is more of a compassionate lifestyle rather than simply a diet. It is definitely something that people should work towards if it works for their body.

92 thoughts on “Nutrition is NOT a Religion!”

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  1. Anonymus says:

    Freelee sucks, she stalks caseys ( yours ) instagram and twitter to make casey look bad. I mean honestly she makes videos about how bad casey is. Well, casey is the best workout fitness trainer ever, stalking caseys social media is the wrong tip. Stay the awesome casey!

  2. Nicole says:

    I have a question. I have done your thigh workout videos because I want to slim my thighs, but I don’t want them to bulk up. Should I keep doing this?

  3. Rebeca says:

    I just saw another video of Freelee. OMG What’s wrong with her? Why so much hate and why she thinks that here point of view its the only one correct in this huge spectrum of diets/lifestyle?
    Casey, I’m brazilian and I had to adapt some of your recipes, some of those I dont even try to cook, but I totally get your perspective and try to eat clean more part of time. Since then I’ve lost 10kilos, eating clean and doing your workout calendar (and now I have a beautiful butt and legs, and…OMG, my body changed completely!). So I couldn’t agree more with you, everybody reacts someway to some foods, its really consecutive trial and error. Oh, and I must say: my bloodtests are completely healthy since I’ve started to follow your tips and exercices. Thanks for that!

  4. Mechelle says:

    Was watching one of your videos on YouTube and was reading some of the comments, saw your link to this blog. Just wanted to say that you are doing a wonderful job and keep doing what you are doing. Healthy eating is simple but yet involves a lot a different factors that vary from person to person. It seems that what you are doing works for you. You seem healthy and happy, and that’s what most people are trying to achieve. I don’t watch these type of videos to copy every thing the person says or does but to really kind of get suggestions and ideas;Then I tailor them to fit myself because I’m unique. These negative haters who want to be experts on everything should not be on these sites because it’s obvious they already ‘know everything’. Thus, they should shut-up and start their own YouTube show or vlog, blog etc…

  5. AA says:

    Woah. I take nutrition seriously in the religious sort of way. I have a book that I call my food bible.

    Thank you for this video and post. I feel like I need to take a step back, and be less pushy on those I love about my love for nutrition and nutrition information. I need to go apologize to everyone I talk to about nutrition; I will try to improve. 🙂 I hope all who see this and are similar to me will also take a step back and acknowledge we need to tone down, not our love for nutrition and nutrition information, but our pushiness of our love. 🙂

  6. Malin says:

    I absolutely agree, that food is not a religion and that everone should choose for themselves what´s right.
    Even so, I have to state that your calculated intake (if it´s correct) of what you eat in a day, seems too low for a woman your age, particularly if you work out! (If this is your average intake on a daily basis)
    (And I am finishing my master´s degree in nutrition, so I know what I´m talking about) Just saying! 😉

  7. Corina renee says:

    I couldn’t agree with you more. I’ve now stared a blog for health and wellness
    healthieryou101.com
    it’s so sad that people are constantly bashed for one reason or another.
    what happened to live and let live at least they are trying.
    There’s a differencbetween constructive criticism and just being hateful.
    yall learn to love your fellow human.the world would be a much better place.
    everyone has different opinions. And that’s a great thing.

  8. Lauren says:

    I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU. I’ve gotten so much flak because I am following the keto lifestyle which is ‘not healthy’. I just wanted to point out that they have never seen the positive results on me eg. more energy, better skin etc. keep living the way your body tells you to, not the others who have no personal experience. They’re not you!!

  9. Laura says:

    Agreed. If you have a problem with how others eat–keep it to yourselves! Cassey is the best out there for everything! Even though the only time i see her is through pintrest and blogilates- I feel like she’s my sister! She’s helped me through Anorexia and self-doubt! And depression, lack of sleep and so many other things! She’s practically my Guardian Angel (sorry if this creeps you out, Cassey.)
    Even though I’m thirteen and most people would exile me for working out at my age, she’s always embraced other people, and i suggest you do the same. Remember what yo mama said.

    “Ain’t got nothin’ nice to say, don’t say nothin’ at all!”

    Love and peace and everything else,

    Laura <3

    A.K.A
    Pitbull girl

  10. Janelle M says:

    Totally true sentiments! I don’t think it’s healthy to few it as a religion OR as an addiction. It’s a journey, it’s a process and a lifestyle. Life isn’t perfect so you cant expect to always be 100% on the right path. You try your best and have more good days than bad. Great share! 🙂

  11. Maria says:

    Hi Cassey 🙂
    I really love if u post your autumn daily routine. Pleaseee.
    Kisses

  12. Lieke says:

    Is sweet potato clean? Btw I lovveeeee your videoss! x

    1. Emma says:

      Sweet potatoes are pretty great in my opinion, you just have to remember that they’re fairly high in carbs. Definitely wayyyyy better than white potatoes or bread though.

  13. Arianna says:

    This post is bold and spot on. We should want to learn from each other, not attack. Good for you!

  14. Judi says:

    Hi Cassie!

    When I watched this video a few days ago, I didn’t really know why you seem to justify yourself and what you seem to be so angry about – but I think I just found the reason by accident right now!
    I discovered videos of Freelee the Banana Girl – and wow, I can already say I absolutely hate her! She is the absolute opposite of you! She is incredible negative and kind of aggressive! Her view of food is sick! She makes young, impressionable girls anorexic! She says her way of nutrition is the only way that is good and works.
    Cassie, I follow your monthly calendar since end of August and therefore, also your blog and some videos besides. And I have to say I love you 😀 You are such a positive person (and in no artificial way, which are some people…). You show us your lifestyle but you never expect anyone to do the same! Contrariwise, you always talk about different ways of nutrition and so on. You are incredible and there is nothing negative I can find about you (and this will mean something because I’m not that positive and always find something bad :D). But I can’t believe there are people, for example Freelee, who trie to make you down. Maybe they are jealous about your success and having so many supporters – but you have those supporters for a reason! But you are such a positive role model to so many people and I simply cannot understand, why some people don’t see it!
    Never let people get you down! You never need to justify for food or anything else – we support you and we want you to share for example a food dairy with us! Keep going ♥

    I hope you read this! I usually don’t comment on blogs but when I just found Freelee and her videos… I just felt like I need to!

    Love,
    Judi

    1. Maria says:

      I totally saw that video too! I was trying to google my.blogilates and it appeared in the search results. I honestly found the video very rude and to assume that only her way is the right way is completely ignorant and wrong of her.
      I actually went and looked at the comments for Freelee’s video and found that many people were angry at her for attacking Cassey and someone even referred to Cassey’s video “Nutrition is NOT a Religion”.
      I can’t even stress how true it is that everyone’s dietary needs are different and there’s no “one way” of going about it. If I were to eat the same way as my sister, I would probably gain weight because she has a higher metabolism than me and she’s more active (I blame my gaming obsession on that one. Heh heh…) I’d also get sick because I’m lactose intolerant and she isn’t.
      Another example of how everyone’s different would be if I were to look at one of my best friends who has hypoglycemia (Her body produces too much insulin). Let’s be honest, if she were to eat the same way as me or my sister or Cassey or Freelee, it probably wouldn’t work for her. Instead she found a way of eating, by trial and error, that works best for her. And it’s always a celebration when the two of us can sit down and split a meal because it’s something we can both eat without getting sick. 🙂
      I think it’s so important to experiment with our food to find what works and what doesn’t. Sure, someone out there is going to look down their nose at you, thinking your way is weird or bad, and tell you their way is better, but what’s best for them might not be best for you.
      In the words of Taylor Swift…
      “The haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate
      Baby, I’m just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake
      I shake it off! I shake it off!”
      Shake it off, Cassey! Your Popsters are behind you 100% and we’re not gonna let a bunch of haters stop us from loving and supporting you! <3

  15. Sharon says:

    Your insights about clean eating has helped me have a starting point for my own research into what works for my body. I’m feeling great, getting fitter, have SOOOOOOOOOOOO much energy, just from making different choices in what I put into my body. Like you said, its our own personal choice, our bodies are all different. Keep up the inspirational work!

  16. Kristine says:

    I am so sorry that there are people personally attacking you! Your positivity and kind spirit have not only helped me live a healthier lifestyle, but also helped me through dark times in my life. You are so inspirational to me and MANY other POPsters. Just remember that we love you and you are beautiful inside and out! Stay strong! 🙂

  17. Chynna says:

    Oh, Cassey! I am sorry for all these people! I support you and everything about you! Some people just find it hard to adapt on others’ habits, probably like yours because it may seem peculiar to them, but that doesn’t mean they should disrespect you. You motivate us NOT TO BECOME THINNER, BUT TO BECOME HEALTHIER. TO BECOME A BETTER VERSION OF OURSELVES. TO BE HAPPY IN OUR OWN SKIN. And I love you for that.

  18. Bailey says:

    Cassie,

    I agree with most of your post until you came to the section on animal slaughter and it being inhumane and horrible. As a veterinarian who has been on the work floor of one of those slaughter houses, I would like you to know that the way animals are slaughtered is not inhumane and every precaution is taken to ensure a swift and painless death. I don’t hate on the vegan lifestyle, but until you have experienced a slaughter house facility please don’t generalize or make assumptions. Now on to your new video workout! Thanks for helping me transform my body!

  19. This post really resonated with me, Cassey. I recently wrote an article on Fiterazzi about whether organic food is really good for you or not, and basically made the same points in that hey, if it works for you then go for it but do not impose what you think upon others.
    Living in SF especially, I am surrounded by so many food extremists and it makes me a little angry at times. Why do people always think that what works best for them is right for you?
    Thanks for this post, Cassey. You’re the best and always keeping it real 🙂

  20. Alyssa says:

    You hit the nail on the head! Too many people not supporting each other and being open minded. We’re always on the defense.

  21. Bronwyn says:

    Cassey,
    Thank you for this. Could you make a video about how to stay healthy during cold and flu season? I always wonder how you don’t get sick running on just a little sleep. I’m home with a new baby, so not getting much sleep and looking for tips to stay healthy this winter.

  22. Kaitlyn says:

    Cassey! Well said! I really hadn’t thought of this turning into a “religion” thing, but you’re right. There really are tons of little sectors, especially amongst instagram. I find myself being judgmental of the way others show their diets on instagram sometimes. Which isn’t good! I know that a lot of people think that the way I eat is “extreme”, but it works for me, and I don’t appreciate them judging me for it, so I shouldn’t judge them either. Glad you posted this!

  23. Miek says:

    Today I went to a public lecture on my University (University of Wageningen in the Netherlands). It was about the clinical perspective on obesity and what he (Dr. Frank van Berkum) said was that the saw that losing weight is not about eating less and moving more. It is about being aware of your habits (I immediately thought of your fit journal, in which I started last week!) and finding out what works for YOUR body. Every body is different and reacts different to food.

    Also that our society measures with averages. So if one group gets fat from eating pizza (Random example) and the other loses weight by eating pizza, that the conclusion is: eating pizza doesn’t affect your weight.

    Besides I saw something I didn’t expect in the supermarket. Spelt is a total hype here and I compared spelt pasta and whole wheat pasta, and guess what? The “normal” whole wheat pasta had less carbs, less fat, more fibers! I truly hope people will be more aware of what they put in their mouth when it IS processed…

    Just had to type this 😉
    Greets and a hugs,
    Miek

  24. Ahhhhhh! I know it must be hard for you to see that kind of comments, but just try to ignore them. There are always haters when it comes to successful people like yourself. No matter what you’re doing, there will always be someone judging. The most important thing to know is that we love you and the rest is just not important 😀

    Apart from that, I totally agree with you. Everybody has to get to know their bodies and see what works best for them. It’s also fine to treat yourself from time to time!

    MUCH LOVE! xoxo

  25. Clementine says:

    As always a lovely and caring post, Cassey. I’m sorry folks are trying to put you down in order to further their own diet fad crazy (looking at a certain banana fixated individual, but *ahem* anyway.) a lot of people are influenced and it is easy to go over the top with cutting calories or carbs too completely from a very rigorous regimen of exercise in order to lose weight. instead, eat moderately and cut moderately. I like to think of it as a science experiment. try one thing for a few weeks, and if it doesn’t work reintroduce the food and cut another. it’s interesting to track and see how your body responds/changes. but your main message stays with me: can’t go wrong eating clean; just make sure you eat enough. and there is no one perfect way of eating for EVERY BODY TYPE.
    thanks so much, Cassey.
    xoxo

  26. Robyn says:

    I very much agree with this post. I would like to add though that ‘religion’ is used very negatively here and I don’t think that is fair. Just trying to be sensitive.

  27. aja says:

    I really hate all the people that think their diet is the only diet. Everyone is different and every body is different so there is no one size fits all diet, like religion.

  28. Marzena says:

    Hi Cassey,

    I love your clean diet, all your ideas and your positive attitude. You changed plenty people life and you should be proud of yourself. Don’t worry what other people say. I met you in person in London and I think you are great, very inspiring person and you should keep up the good work. Well done you! Marzie x

  29. Rebecca says:

    Just because it’s on the internet doesn’t mean it’s true. Why would people think that just because you post what you eat, or post a recommended diet plan, that that is the end all and be all, or that it would work for them? Like you said, every body is different. Some people are judgmental. Those people are stupid. Cassey, you are awesome and we love you. I don’t understand why people feel the need to separate themselves into angry, opposing groups. We all have the same goal (health), we all have different journeys, and we all have destinations that will look different. No need to judge those on a path different than your own.

    PS While being vegan is certainly the most humane way of eating, simply getting your meat and animal products from happy farms where the animals are free range, fed a natural diet and loved by their caretakers (and killed humanely), as opposed to eating factory farmed products, I believe makes a big difference in the world. Not to mention tasting better and being healthier for your own body, as well as the animals’.

    PPS What the heck is “chicken period”?? Do the people claiming you eat that have a lot of experience ingesting it themselves, to be able to recognize it (and know that it’s not good)? Because…ew. 😉

    1. Annelise says:

      Amen. Also the first time I was informed I was eating “chicken periods” I didn’t know what to say so I started laughing.

    2. Maria says:

      Lol “Chicken periods” are eggs. I “cracked” up when a friend of mine told me that one. XD

  30. lauren says:

    you go girl!!! this is so great!! I cop crap all the time for the way I eat (sugar free vegan) and this post is great 🙂

  31. Julieke says:

    Well said Cassey!
    I’ve tried the blood type diet (yup, another one!) which was maybe the only one that worked.
    Basically according to it I have issues digesting cheese, dairy, red meat and refined carbs… Which is true! (I’m A+).
    It took me a long time to realize that I wasn’t just slow at digesting, I also ate a lot of food that didn’t agree with me on a daily basis.
    Today I still eat everything, but in moderation. I’m french so avoiding cheese is definitely out of the question, but now I think about what I eat and when I should eat it.
    One last thought: in my language “diète” means fasting. Adopting good eating habits is to me way more important and lasting than loosing weight. I’m sure plenty of Popsters feel the same.
    Thank you Cassey again for your rant! 🙂

  32. Sarah says:

    Hi Cassy,

    Thank you for addressing this so well and encouraging tolerance!

    xoxo,
    S

  33. Sarah says:

    Cassey, I LOVED this post. Thank you! I wish we would all take the attitude of taking what is good and helpful from whatever source we may and figuring out our own healthy. I do this by looking through your recipes and thoughts on nutrition and working them into my own needs. For me, as a runner, that basically means eating a lot more carbs than you recommend. So do I write you hateful comments on how you’re giving bad advice? NO! I make your Ultra Clean Meatballs and add a huge pile of brown rice or quinoa to my plate or eat them on wheat toast, sandwich style. Everyone should be able to find what fuels their life and then be genuinely happy when others do the same.

    My husband’s family has a hilarious saying: KEEP YOUR EYES ON YOUR OWN PLATE! It’s something their mom would say when they were kids if someone whined about someone getting more chicken, not eating as many peas, etc. And man, I wish more of us adults would take that good advice. Keep your eyes on your own plate and eating and stop beating up on others who have found a different way of doing things.

  34. Yun says:

    You are great! I love your views! You help me a lot.

  35. Lauren says:

    Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!
    Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen! Amen!

  36. Rich Moses says:

    Thank you for having the guts to say what needed to be said!
    I have spent countless hours trying to explain to my clients that there is no “One Way” to eat. We are all different and our bodies react differently to the foods we eat.

    The fads come and go but common sense tells us that if you base your intake on the amount of activity you think you will encounter you will feel better and find it easier to manage your weight.

    I have been using Plexus products for most of my clients and the results have been excellent!

    If I can get them off of the sugar and card craving carousel they have a much easier time making better food choices.

  37. Ngozi says:

    Don’t listen to the haters.you inspire me and so many other women to be healthy and eat right-keep doing you boo!

  38. Sara says:

    This is why I love you Cassey. I have always admired your balanced and reasonable approach to diet and exercise!

  39. Nikki says:

    Good job, Cassey!

  40. Sam says:

    Hi Cassey! I just LOVE your blog, videos and tips! I changed my life a lot since I found out about your blog and blogilates! But I’m still trying to lose some weight and eat healthy. My problem is that I like hot, spicy salty foods. I love your recipes, but most of them are sweet or cold (like salads and dips). Would you consider making some salty (non-sweet) and hot recipes? i think it could help lots of people that might have the same taste in food as I do.
    Thank you very much! =) XOXO

  41. Hannah says:

    I just want to offer you encouragement… You have changed my life in the way I and my family sees delicious, healthy foods. I am a new mom of a beautiful 9 month old. I came across your blog/workout on Pinterest after I had my little one last February. Your high protein meal plans along with the workout calendars honest to goodness saved me from stresssing on how to get to the gym everyday with a newborn and helping to tone up after pregnancy. I have battled multiple eating disorders for over 12 years of my life- hating food, working out excessively, bingeing… the cycle never stopped… Until now. You have been such a huge part of this recovery. You provide these intense and fun workouts, delicious meal plans with recipes, the app, knowledge, positivity, and so much more. I have never thanked you, but I have to now. Please keep smiling. Please know how many lives you are touching and helping to heal. All of your hard work and dedication is prayed for here in our house. Thank you so much for giving so much of yourself for others!

  42. Michelle says:

    Awesome awesome, you are an amazing role model!! Keep up the good work Cassie xx

  43. Jodi Duncan says:

    This post made my day. Possibly my week, actually. Being a vegan, I appreciate this so so much, and I absolutely LOVE the way you approached these issues. GO CASSEY!

  44. Amanda says:

    YES!! If I try to follow other people’s rules, it never works out. This is one of the reasons I can’t do food plans. I need to eat *my* food. I know what my body needs. Everyone should listen to their own bodies, find what works for them, and just enjoy that and let other people do the same.

  45. Sharon Ng says:

    After seeing Freelee the Banana Girl’s post about you, I unsubscribed her. Granted, she is doing her effort to preach about healthy eating habits and being vegan, but she was too judgmental >.<
    By the way, I'm a vegan too. I don't stress much about eating and just try to eat clean within a student's budget. (No protein powder or whatsoever, mainly fruits, vegetables and unrefined starches because they are cheap) I just started doing your workouts and the lower abs workout and 6 minutes to sexy arms workout are pretty BRUTAL!
    Cassey, I agree with you that nutrition is not a religion. People just have to find out what suits them most. If there is a one-size-fits-all approach, there won't be such things like food allergies and food intolerance.
    Keep up the good work!

  46. Veronica says:

    THANK YOU CASSEY! As a vegan, (a sentence starter I use more than I should have to to explain my lifestyle choices, but for you it’s simply to show my camaraderie 🙂 this subject gives me a MAJOR SAD. I get it from all sides – all-or-nothing vegans, insecure omnivores… I’m constantly being put in a position to explain myself, which means divulging all the personal, health, and ethical reasons I went vegan 8 years ago, to people who don’t ask me “Why?” to be inquisitive, but rather prove their own theory that my lifestyle is unsustainable, expensive, unhealthy, what have you. On the other hand, I’m being put in a camp of militant elitists who decree all those who don’t follow suit are sins against humanity – and those vegans certainly exists!

    No one who ever asks knows that I met my best friend over our mutual love of vegan cooking (her diet a NECESSITY as a result of severe allergies to a laundry list of conventional foods), or that in college my friends and I hosted potluck feasts every Sunday that we called “Family Dinner” and included everyone from omnivores, vegans, gluten-free… or that I dated a staunch omnivore for three years who was a compassionate person that enjoyed vegan meals with me, or that I monitor my nutrient intake more carefully than most omnivores ever will!

    NUTRITION IS NOT AN ALL OR NOTHING GAME. IT’S AN ESSENTIAL LIFE BALANCE!

    /END SECOND RANT. 🙂

  47. Varaia says:

    AMEN! lol. So many of us get caught up on trying to eat perfectly and get into a cycle of beating ourselves up about it (even on the forums). Very timely video…I was getting a little irritated at all the junk myself. You are right, nutrition is not some religion where you need to pay for your eating sins and then try to convert others to the same self-loathing existence. Eat and let eat. Other people just be HANGRY (when you are so hungry you are angry at life.) :-DDDD

  48. Ari says:

    My role model! I love your energy and dedication to health, both mental and physical. I completely agree.. I’m currently trying to figure out what’s best for my body. I love how your videos and blog posts provide an unjudgmental and supportive space for people to try to gain better health… especially since this is so rare on the internet with everyone thinking they’re right. Keep doing you girl!

  49. Tracy says:

    Wow. First, I think we all owe you a thank you for everything that you do for us. And secondly, thank you so much for addressing this issue. We are all entitled to our own beliefs and each of us know our bodies better than anyone else. That goes for you as well. You know what works for you and that is what is great. I see the people in “food sects” if you will. I worked in the restaurant world for a long time and people get CRAY CRAY about their food. I will never, ever, ever, judge someone for the food habits. That it is none of my business. I just do what is right for me (and I am still figuring it out, I have been vegan, veggie, whatever I wanted (that is not a good option) and now I try to eat clean.. I am glad you addressed this. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do. I appreciate the knowledge that you so willing share.

  50. Connie says:

    I love the way you addressed this. Sometimes we need a reminder that we are not all the same, we don’t all like to eat the same things, we aren’t all built a certain way and our goals and expenditures in calories are different. While your calorie count on that given day may seem low for some it may be just right for you. You stay active, and you have energy–you are not starving yourself. There are always more ways than one to do any given activity. I agree–let’s stop judging each other and do what we feel is right for ourselves.

  51. Sarah says:

    I saw the video Freelee did about you, and in your defense, she doesn’t know what she’s talking about since I wouldn’t call her diet healthy! The only thing I would say is you could use more healthy fats in your day, but this is just an example! You certainly don’t eat the same things every day. And I’m sure you eat more calories on other days since you don’t count. Your diet seems healthier than most.

  52. Rachel says:

    THIS IS SO PERFECT. I’m studying to be a dietician, and I couldn’t agree more. There is a reason my profession exists: people aren’t cookie cutters!!! Thinking one diet fits all is like putting diesel fuel in your Prius and wondering why you have issues. No body is exactly like another body. I got so angry when I saw the Freelee the Banana Girl video about your What I Eat In A Day video. Who is she to determine what you should eat? She even said in the video that she’d never seen any other videos of yours before making her video about you. If I find something that works for me and makes me feel great, just be happy for me! I’ll do the same for you.

  53. Rebekka says:

    Don’t read the random posts, Cassey, just to mine 😉
    You’re doing great. Keep up the good work encouraging us all to get strong and fit and healthy!

  54. Nicole says:

    Thank you for posting this. You got the message across so well. I completely agree with you. I have to admit, I used to preach about my diet to others (I am a super clean eater) just because it made me feel so great and I felt so healthy. But when someone would preach to me about why I should go vegan or carb-free, I was so annoyed because I was like ‘that doesn’t work for me!’ Now I understand that, while I believe everyone should be eating very healthy, there are different ways to go about it and everyone is different. I never thought about it being like a religion before, but I love how you related it to that. You expressed these thoughts and views perfectly. Loved this video! (I may share it on my blog because I love this topic!)

  55. Phillippa says:

    I totally agree! And I would actually go so far as to say people who treat nutrition as a religion (there is only one way, if you go off this path you feel guilty/need to be shamed) is a possible indicator of disordered eating. no one should be so obsessed with what they eat as to feel it’s ok to shame another!

  56. Ascel says:

    Thank you for saying this, Cassey. I’ve been feeling like there’s too much negativity connected with food and healthy eating; it’s not enough to est healthily, one has to follow all sets of rules, and if not, it’s almost compared to moral travesty. I mean, what? We’re all different, live in different climates and lead different lifestyles, so of course we have to eat differently. In summer I can easily eat just fruits and veggies and not feel hungry at all, but during the colder months I simply need more calories. And it also depends on what I’ve been doing, how much time did I spend outside, how much did I work out, how stressed I am, and so on. If my needs can be so different, then how can there be one set diet that fits every single human being on the planet (and let’s not get into accessibility and different prices of foods, which is also a big factor in what we eat). And while I do think nutrition is important and enjoy healthy eating, but ultimately, I just want to eat what makes me feel good and focus on my life. Which is why I enjoy your blog so much, because while you do encourage us to make good choices, it’s in positive and inclusive manner.

  57. Rebekah says:

    PREACH IT sistah!

  58. Sara says:

    Check it out! Cassey Ho with a different kind of fire! Wait….Cassey Ho with FIYAH!!

    I like it. It would seem everybody’s a critic (which I think my version already came out in this comment haha), but I love it when I see people have the courage to stand up for themselves. By this point it’s crazy to me that people are coming down so hard on one who regularly talks about “loving your body” and “healthy change”, but I suppose that comes with success 😀 they can say whatever they want, but we all know better than that. We love ya Cassey! Don’t let the haters get you down!

  59. Eema says:

    I love the way you stood up to all that hate, and I couldn’t agree more with everything you’ve mentioned. I find myself relating to this in a different way; thank you for the well written post. 😀

  60. Marilyn says:

    Thanks for talking and blogging about what your eat. I always enjoy hearing what others eat even if it’s not something I would try. Diet is a personal choice, not always to loose weight but to be who you are. People shouldn’t be so criticle all the time. I’m so tired of people commenting about my weight and what I eat. Just because I’m slim they think it’s ok. Would they say the same thing to an overweight person? I think not!

  61. Alex says:

    Yesss… People can be very judgemental and offensive about their eating habits. But the reason you’re successful is because you rise above and take the high road so don’t let it bring you down! Best role model eveeeeeeer!

  62. Will says:

    This is just so right I love you Cassey <3 And I'm so happy I'm from Sweden couse I seriously can't live without diary haha

  63. teilzeitDAU says:

    in a way I think nutrition is a lot like religion: no one is superior or the right one, there’s (probably) pros and cons to each of them, and each person has to decide for themselves which of them appeals to them most and works for them best.

  64. Sharon Ng says:

    Cassey, I agree with you on this! What works on you may not work on others. I am a vegan and try to eat clean (no protein powder here, haha), and I can’t eat raw cruciferous vegetables. I also find out that I can’t eat lots of bread, and eat little fat. However, I don’t bash on my friends who eat meat… it’s simply a matter of mutual respect. We strive to live the best in our lives.
    Being dogmatic can only incite annoyance and makes one fails to pass his/her message to the others…
    Oh by the way, I just recently discovered your workouts and want to do them! They look fun! I did your lower abs workout and 6-minute to Sexy Arms workout. They look easy but are very brutal!

  65. Sinia says:

    Thank you for posting this Cassey! I ranted in about the same way about all this stuff several times in the last months.

    Right now I am following your 8 week meal plan, which works pretty fine for me, but I noticed I need a little more carbs in my diet. So I adjusted it and now it’s perfect for me. Might not work for someone elye, though.

    Please go on with all you do, I love following your vlogs, blogs and workouts.

    (And I am sure you have enough energy, but I would love to be your gym body for a day ^^)

    1. Sinia says:

      *gym buddy of course (stupid autocorrection…)

  66. Christina R says:

    Ugh those people are the worst. My aunt is like that where she criticizes everything I eat and boast how she doesn’t eat rice, or carbs, or sweets, or whatevers. One time I baked a cake for my grandfather’s birthday and she had to nerve to ask how many calories and sugar it contained! If you don’t want it, then don’t eat it. But don’t expect everyone else to be part of your bandwagon!

    I’m super glad your wrote this! We are all made differently. Like my ex coworker, girl can eat tons of chocolate but won’t gain any weight! If I followed her nutrition mantra, I’m sure I’d gain 10 lbs a week! Haha. Some people need to chill and follow their own paths. 🙂

  67. Lovisa says:

    Great video, I totally agree!

    BTW where is your top from? It’s super cute!

  68. Stephenie says:

    Cassey,
    I agree that people on the internet are very judgemental about the way other people eat. I think that many of these people are either blinded to the faults in their own diets or in denial. If most people advertised their true diets on the internet they would also be criticized. Many of the people following these nutritional cults often don’t practice what they preach, although I’m sure many of them are as dedicated as they can be. I think that people should eat what makes them and their bodies happiest. I may not eat exactly what you eat everyday, but I still feel as though I am meeting my nutrition goals. It’s seriously not a one size fits all deal and people who claim it is are kidding themselves.

    Just my opinion

  69. S says:

    In Australia (and probably many other countries), significantly more sentient lives are ended to produce 1 unit of plant protein than 1 unit of animal protein. Here, most of our meat is grass-fed, so I don’t know about how this compares for countries in which most of the meat is factory-farmed/grain-fed. Simply put, many animals are killed to clear the land for plant crops (especially grain crops). Animals which are “pests” on that land are also killed cruelly.

    tl;dr Ethically raised grass-fed meat is -more- humane than grain/plant crops.

    Source – http://www.iflscience.com/plants-and-animals/ordering-vegetarian-meal-there-s-more-animal-blood-your-hands

  70. Ruth says:

    Well said, Cassey! I got upset seeing all the critical comments about your diet, too. You obviously have plenty of energy and are not emaciated at all, but rather, healthy and glowing! Your diet works for you, and no one should judge that.

  71. Claire says:

    More than shit from people of other fitness lifestyles I get so much shit for eating clean from ‘normal’ people! Make fun of me for eating healthy then compliment and praise my body? One doesn’t come without the other boo boo! I wish people would stop accusing me or making fun of me when I skip the burger for the salad bar- especially if they’re going to compliment my muscles later…

  72. Bravo Cassey! (Long time reader, first time comment-ter). Thank you for saying this.

    Especially “Please remember that there is no one diet for all people”

    Yes! Excellent. People NEED to know this. And HOORAY for not counting calories! x

  73. Rosie says:

    You go, Cassey! You are my role model not only in your Pilates and diet but also in your brains and your courage. A lot of people would not have the guts to say what you are saying now. Keep being amazing. You have a POPster community that loves you and supports you.

  74. Danielle says:

    “You do you boo boo” needs to be the new “YOLO” for 2015….. we’ll start it early. YDYBB Y’all!

  75. GK says:

    This definitely needed to be said!!!!!! I feel like every time someone one embraces something, another one just puts them down or criticizes them. I personally agree with you Cassey. You are beautiful and an amazing fitness model. I love you so much and you are an inspiration. You motivate me and personally I absolutely love your honesty. Keep being the role model you are because haters shouldn’t be hatin’ on you !!!!!!

  76. 1000% agree!! I am in the best shape of my life doing what works for me (found through trial and error) and not adhering to strict guidelines. Once you’ve worked out your own formula, no one should judge.

    I am just like you – generally avoid lactose and wheat, and eat whole foods 90% of the time, with Questies in the mix too. <3 Great post!

    Jill
    http://www.champagneforeveryday.com

  77. DanyB says:

    THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS! Definitely words that shouldn’t haven’t to be said, but needed to! Well done Cassey! You’re a true role model! Can’t wait to meet you next month!!!! Sending love from Texas!

  78. Amanda says:

    Thank you for sharing this! I may be a Celiac but I love your clean eating! I consume a lot less fat since I have no gal bladder! I feel so inspired when I see your articles, and it makes me realize that I’m not alone and there are people out there who just don’t fit the mold that society wants them to. Thank you again for the awesome share!

  79. Kelsey says:

    THANK YOU! I used to have a fitness/health twitter account, and this is part of the reason why I deleted it. Too many people believe that their way is the ONLY WAY, and that everyone else is wrong, and project those thoughts onto others in incredibly rude ways. Thank you so much for this, it needed to be said!

  80. I couldn’t have said this better myself, Cassey. You took the words right out of my mouth! I agree with you completely and I detest people who impose their view of health on someone else. Honestly, who do they think they are?!

  81. Interesting perspective! I agree that diet is different for everyone and it’s not really right to compare yourself to someone else when we all have different nutritional needs. With that said, I think people probably became critical because even 1500 calories seems like a low amount for someone as active as you. Not judging just trying to see other people’s view points to! I think it’s great that you’re so open and honest with your readers and that you feel comfortable sharing things about your diet and health. A lot of people look to you a role model!

  82. Krista says:

    GO CASSEY!! Seriously.

  83. Janice says:

    GO GIRL. YES YES YES.