Cairen Loux had always been an active person, but years of long-distance running had taken a toll on her knees and hips. By her mid-thirties, she was dealing with persistent joint pain that made even walking uncomfortable.
Instead of turning to heavy medication, Cairen began exploring how diet could support joint health — and that’s when she found a plant-based, vegan approach.
Her daily meals became colorful plates full of anti-inflammatory ingredients. Breakfast was often a smoothie made with spinach, pineapple, flax seeds, and almond milk. Lunch might be a hearty lentil soup with turmeric and fresh herbs, while dinner featured chickpea curry or roasted vegetables with tahini dressing.
These meals were naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids from plant-based sources like walnuts and chia seeds.
After a few months, the difference was undeniable. Cairen’s inflammation markers dropped, her pain decreased, and she could return to light jogging without discomfort. She credited much of her recovery to avoiding processed foods and incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like ginger and turmeric daily.
She also made sure her vegan diet met her protein needs with beans, lentils, quinoa, and plant-based protein powder. The result wasn’t just healthier joints — her overall energy and mood improved as well.
Cairen now advocates for plant-based eating as a way to care for both the planet and your body. “It’s not just about preventing pain,” she says. “It’s about feeling good every single day.”
