Hey, Climate Champions! These two Climatarian videos are not about introducing a brand-new diet but rather about sparking ideas for those who are passionate about plant-based eating, health, and sustainability. Whether you’re a doctor, nutritionist, vegan, vegetarian, plant-based eater, raw-food advocate, or just someone who cares about our planet, these concepts are for you to expand, refine, and make your own.
The goal is to improve our health while protecting biodiversity and reducing environmental harm. Take these insights, create more content, and share how we can nourish ourselves and the Earth at the same time. If you tweak the ideas, reintroduce them, and own them as yours—that’s great! I’m not here for credit; I’m here for our children’s future and a healthier planet.
I also created a Diet & Health Challenge Plan over at Climate Tribe (climatetribe.com) for just $9.99 per year, where I’ll host regular video conferencing meet-ups to discuss sustainable living, diet, and health solutions. For more on my projects, check out exit235.com!
A Balanced Approach to Health and Planetary Well-Being
As more people recognize the profound link between food choices and the Climate and Ecological Emergency, the need for sustainable, planet-friendly diets has never been greater. The Climatarian Low-Carb Diet emerges as a powerful solution, blending the principles of low-carbon eating with the health benefits of a low-carb lifestyle.
Unlike its raw counterpart, this version of the Climatarian Diet allows for cooked plant-based foods while still maintaining a low carbohydrate intake. It’s an approach that not only minimizes environmental impact but also supports metabolic health, weight management, and energy balance.
What is the Climatarian Low-Carb Diet?
The Climatarian Low-Carb Diet is a plant-based, low-carbohydrate, and environmentally conscious eating plan. It removes carbon-heavy foods such as animal products, ultra-processed foods, and refined sugars while embracing sustainable, whole, and nutritious plant-based foods.
What Can You Eat?
This diet focuses on nutrient-dense, low-impact plant foods that are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, ensuring long-lasting energy without the blood sugar spikes of high-carb meals.
1. Low-Carb Vegetables (Cooked and Raw)
- Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, Swiss chard, arugula, bok choy
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage
- Other Non-Starchy Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, eggplant, asparagus, green beans
2. Plant-Based Proteins
- Tofu (organic and non-GMO)
- Tempeh (fermented and gut-friendly)
- Seitan (for those not sensitive to gluten)
- Hemp seeds, chia seeds, flaxseeds
- Lupini beans (a high-protein, low-carb legume)
3. Healthy Plant-Based Fats
- Avocados
- Olives and extra virgin olive oil
- Coconut oil and coconut products
- Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds
- MCT oil (medium-chain triglycerides for sustained energy)
4. Sprouted and Fermented Plant Foods
- Sprouted lentils, mung beans, and chickpeas (lower in carbs than cooked legumes)
- Fermented vegetables like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles (gut health benefits)
- Plant-based yogurt (unsweetened coconut or almond yogurt with probiotics)
5. Low-Carb Fruits (in Moderation)
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- Lemons and limes
- Avocados (both a fat and fruit!)
6. Alternative Grains (Low-Carb & Climate-Friendly)
- Cauliflower rice
- Shirataki (konjac) noodles
- Almond flour, coconut flour, flaxseed meal (for baking or thickening dishes)
7. Herbal Teas and Natural Hydration
- Herbal teas: Green tea, hibiscus, peppermint, chamomile
- Infused water: Lemon, cucumber, or ginger-infused water
- Unsweetened plant-based milks: Almond, coconut, macadamia
Why Choose the Climatarian Low-Carb Diet?
This diet not only supports personal well-being but also reduces environmental harm through food choices that limit carbon emissions, land degradation, and water consumption.
1. Reduces Carbon Footprint 🌍
- Eliminates high-impact animal agriculture.
- Supports locally grown and seasonal plant-based foods.
- Encourages zero-waste eating with fresh, whole foods.
2. Supports Health & Longevity 💪
- Stabilizes blood sugar: Prevents insulin resistance and energy crashes.
- Enhances digestion: Incorporates fiber-rich foods and fermented gut-friendly options.
- Encourages metabolic flexibility: Promotes fat-burning instead of carb-reliant energy.
3. Adaptable and Practical for Everyday Living 🍽️
- Unlike fully raw diets, this diet allows for cooked foods, making it more sustainable for different climates and lifestyles.
- Can be easily modified to meet different dietary preferences and needs.
- Encourages batch cooking and meal prepping for long-term sustainability.
How to Succeed on the Climatarian Low-Carb Diet
- Focus on Whole, Unprocessed Foods: Avoid refined grains, sugars, and processed vegan substitutes.
- Prioritize Local & Seasonal Ingredients: Support regenerative agriculture and reduce food miles.
- Be Mindful of Macronutrient Balance: Ensure adequate protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Experiment with Low-Carb Cooking Techniques: Try roasting, sautéing, or air-frying for flavorful meals.
- Listen to Your Body: Adapt your intake based on energy needs and lifestyle demands.
Is the Climatarian Low-Carb Diet for Everyone?
While this diet is highly nutrient-dense and eco-conscious, those with high energy demands (such as athletes) or individuals transitioning from high-carb diets may need time to adjust their macronutrient ratios.
Additionally, supplementation with B12, Omega-3s (ALA, DHA, EPA), and Vitamin D is recommended for those following plant-based diets to ensure complete nutrition.
Final Thoughts: A Diet for a Resilient Future
The Climatarian Low-Carb Diet represents a balanced, realistic, and planet-friendly approach to eating. It provides the flexibility of cooked and raw plant-based foods while reducing environmental harm and supporting Adaptive Resiliency in the face of our current Climate and Ecological Emergency.
By making intentional food choices today, we not only nourish ourselves but also contribute to the restoration of ecosystems, water conservation, and greenhouse gas reduction.
Food is power. Let’s use it wisely. 🌱💚
See previous blog post as this is a two-part post!
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