Ballito Umhl - NOV 2020

Polenta Bites with Avocado Dip
Natalie and Nicole
showing off their skills!
Dessert was delicious!
It was after she had quite a big
health scare and was diagnosed with
renal failure in 2015 that Jen started
following a plant-based lifestyle (she
does occasionally throw in some dairy
and eggs). “While I was on dialysis, I
had to make very specific changes
to what I was eating and drinking.
After my kidney transplant (my sister
lovingly shared her spare one with
me), I started having gut issues and
was diagnosed with Inflammatory
bowel disease. After much trial and
error with medication, I decided to
follow a plant-based diet. I felt so
much better within a few weeks. I
have been in remission ever since and
haven’t had any issues or relapses.”
Jen says it’s important to remember
that people choose plant based
lifestyles for various reasons, whether
it’s for health, weight loss, to lessen
their carbon footprint or a love for
animals. “We need to remember to
The Get It girls: Justine Douglas, Lisa Smith, Natalie
Betram, Nicole von Metzinger and Leah Shone
48 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga November 2020