Recovering from an eating disorder can encompass a mix of emotions: fear, stress, and empowerment. For the Ferguson family, this challenging journey became a transformative experience, sparking a wave of health and healing. This trio—daughter, mother, and grandmother—embraced a vegan lifestyle together and are excited to share their uplifting philosophy with the community through their new plant-based café.
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A Pivotal Moment
The day Alysa Ferguson’s daughter, Daylana, confided in her about her struggles with disordered eating remains a vivid and painful memory. It was the August before she began ninth grade, and Daylana felt overwhelmed by how much food impacted her daily life.
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Alysa quickly sought counseling. The counselor referred them to a pediatrician, and when the medical results indicated that Daylana faced a high risk of serious cardiac issues, she was promptly withdrawn from school and admitted to a hospital for specialized care.
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The Journey to Wellness
Looking back on her intensive treatment, Daylana acknowledges how difficult it was to be under constant supervision, with restrictions even on bathroom breaks and walking. Yet, she recalls, “it felt like a weight of responsibility was lifted off my shoulders.”
Once discharged, Daylana began to reflect on her life, values, and aspirations. Determined to pursue her initial goal of wellness, she sought a healthier path. She pondered, “What do I truly believe in? What can I do to feel good about my choices?” The solution she found was to embrace a plant-based lifestyle.
Alysa was concerned that this decision might lead to restrictive eating patterns and an unhealthy obsession with food, so she initially resisted. However, she struck a deal with Daylana: “Show me how you can do this in a healthy manner.”
And Daylana rose to the challenge. The very next day, she presented her mother with a comprehensive plan outlining how she intended to adopt a vegan diet in a healthy way, complete with recipes, shopping lists, and a budget. Alysa, surprised and impressed, was inspired to join her daughter on this journey.
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A Shared Passion, A New Venture
As they transitioned to this new lifestyle, the mother-daughter team sought guidance from professionals, consulting with a naturopath and a sports nutritionist to ensure they were meeting their nutritional needs.
Eager to join in, Alysa’s mother, Eileen (“Nona”), also embraced this change. Motivated by her own health challenges, Eileen desired to nourish her body with wholesome foods and prioritize wellness, thus completing the trio.
“Food has united us,” Alysa shares. Yet, their perception of food has evolved significantly. “Instead of categorizing a meal by its meat, starch, and vegetables, we approach meals as a cohesive whole.” Their new plant-based diet draws inspiration from global cuisines and fosters new traditions. For instance, each Christmas, they prepare a feast from a different culture.
Daylana continues to challenge the stigma surrounding the term “anorexia.” “It doesn’t define who I am,” she asserts. “Labels like ‘anorexic’ can confine people. I want to be seen as I am, without others walking cautiously around me.”
She has much to celebrate: this year, Daylana graduated from high school and aims to become a sports nutritionist. She has gained valuable experience working with Erin Ireland, connected with influencers on social media, pursued her athletic interests, and collaborated with her mother to realize their dream of opening a restaurant.
With a voice wiser than her years, Daylana reflects, “I’ve come to understand that if I hadn’t been open and vulnerable, I would have missed out on countless wonderful relationships and experiences.”
Down 2 Earth Plant Parlour is set to open soon in Langley, BC. This plant-based café will offer the community delicious meals infused with love and positive energy.
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Concerned Someone May Have an Eating Disorder?
If you suspect that you or someone you know may be struggling with an eating disorder, it’s vital to seek help. Reach out to a doctor or a qualified therapist, or contact a specialized organization like the National Eating Disorder Information Centre.
Alysa emphasizes, “No one is alone in this. While discussions on disordered eating are sparse, the problem is widespread—many people face it.”
To assist someone who may be experiencing an eating disorder, Alysa shares a few recommendations:
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Be Approachable
Daylana notes, “My mom has always maintained an approachable demeanor, allowing me to share anything without fear of judgment.” Alysa concurs, “I’ve always prioritized honesty with Daylana. We aimed for open, candid discussions.”
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Encourage Openness
Alysa discovered that conversations in the car with Daylana were effective. “In this setting, you can avoid eye contact, enabling them to share what they might not otherwise express in a direct conversation.”
If you suspect someone may have an eating disorder, consider inviting them out to eat. Observe: are they eating? Are they engaged in the moment, or preoccupied with their thoughts about food?
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Vegan Kids, Vegan Families
Research indicates that a vegan diet can be a nutritious option for individuals at all life stages, provided it’s properly managed. If your child expresses interest in plant-based eating, here are Alysa’s top recommendations:
- Instead of dismissing their interest outright, take the time to research together—exploring both the positives and potential drawbacks.
- If this lifestyle appeals to your family, consider transitioning gradually before trying a plant-based diet for a few weeks to evaluate how everyone feels.
- Establish a healthy pantry: dedicate weekends to quick and easy recipes for sauces, dips, and staples to make healthy weeknight meals more accessible.
Once you embark on a vegan journey, it’s crucial to routinely consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you and your children are getting adequate amounts of essential nutrients:
- protein
- fiber
- omega-3 fatty acids
- iron
- zinc
- iodine
- calcium
- vitamin D
- vitamin B12
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Shift the Focus Away from Weight
Alysa and Daylana encourage a reevaluation of how we communicate and emphasize a move away from discussions centered on body weight.
“There’s no one correct way to approach this since different triggers affect different individuals,” Alysa cautions. But she believes mindfulness about our greetings and comments is essential.
Daylana warns, “Comments like ‘You look so healthy’ after someone has lost weight can be damaging.”
Alysa adds, “Recognizing one’s inner strengths and unique beauty is far more fulfilling than commenting on physical appearance.”
Alysa recommends open-ended inquiries such as, “You seem so vibrant lately! What’s contributing to your happiness?” rather than direct remarks about someone’s weight loss.
