Recovering from an eating disorder can be an emotional journey, filled with fear, strain, and empowerment. For the Ferguson family, this challenging period became a significant turning point, fostering a wave of health and healing. Together, Alysa, her daughter Daylana, and her mother Eileen embraced a vegan lifestyle, and are eager to share their uplifting philosophy through a newly established plant-based café.
A pivotal moment
The day Alysa Ferguson’s daughter, Daylana, confided in her about her struggles with disordered eating remains a vivid and heartbreaking memory. It happened in August, just before Daylana was set to enter the ninth grade, as she expressed her discontent about how eating was dominating her life.
Recognizing the gravity of the issue, Alysa quickly sought counseling, which led to a referral to a pediatrician. Upon receiving alarming test results indicating that Daylana was at high risk for severe heart issues, she was withdrawn from school and admitted to a facility for specialized care.
The journey to recovery
Daylana recalls that the rigorous treatment regimen was profoundly difficult, as every aspect of her daily life was monitored, even her bathroom visits and chances to walk. Despite this, she felt a significant relief from the burden she carried.
After her release, Daylana embarked on a journey of self-discovery, reevaluating her values and aspirations. She was determined to pursue her wellness goals, recognizing that there had to be a more balanced approach. Asking herself, “What do I truly believe in? How can I feel good about my choices?” led her to embrace a plant-based lifestyle.
Initially concerned that this might lead to further restrictive behaviors, Alysa hesitated, but ultimately agreed under the condition, “Show me how you plan to do this in a healthy manner.”
Daylana responded by presenting a comprehensive proposal, complete with recipes, grocery lists, and estimated costs. Impressed by her thoroughness, Alysa chose to embark on this new journey with her daughter.
A shared mission
The mother-and-daughter team consulted nutrition experts regularly to ensure they were meeting their nutritional needs. Not long after, Eileen (“Nona”) joined their mission, driven by her own health challenges to prioritize wholesome, nourishing foods. What began as a duo blossomed into a trio.
“Food is what unites us,” Alysa notes. However, their perspectives on meals have transformed; instead of the traditional view of meals consisting of meat, starch, and vegetables, they have adopted a holistic understanding. Their culinary approach is now internationally inspired, fostering new traditions, like preparing dishes from different cultures each Christmas.
Daylana continues to challenge the stigma surrounding the label “anorexia,” asserting, “That does not define me.” She wishes to dismantle the notion that such labels necessitate altered behaviors or sensitivities from others.
This year, Daylana celebrated her high school graduation with ambitions of becoming a sports nutritionist. Her journey has been filled with internships, networking with industry influencers, maintaining her athletic pursuits, and contributing to the realization of their restaurant vision.
With the wisdom of someone beyond her years, Daylana reflects, “Being vulnerable has allowed me to accept incredible relationships and experiences I might have missed otherwise.”
Excitingly, their plant-based café, Down 2 Earth Plant Parlour, is set to open soon in Langley, BC, bringing delicious food and heartfelt community connection to the area.
Worried about someone’s eating habits?
If you suspect that you or someone you care about may be suffering from an eating disorder, reaching out for support is crucial. Consider consulting a healthcare provider or contacting an organization like the National Eating Disorder Information Centre.
Alysa states, “No one should feel isolated in this struggle. Disordered eating is quite prevalent, yet rarely discussed.”
She also shares practical advice for approaching someone who may be in distress:
Be approachable
Daylana appreciates that her mom has always been open and approachable, allowing her to voice anything without fear of judgment. Alysa reinforces, “We have always prioritized transparent, honest dialogues.”
Offer open-ended conversation starters
Alysa found that having discussions with Daylana during car rides worked well, as it eliminates the pressure of eye contact and creates a discreet space for sharing. This can encourage openness that might be difficult face-to-face.
If you’re unsure about someone’s eating habits, consider suggesting a meal together. Observe whether they engage in eating and if they are mentally present or distracted by food thoughts.
Vegan children, vegan families
Studies indicate that a plant-based diet can be a healthy choice for individuals at all ages when properly managed. If your child is expressing interest in a vegan diet, Alysa provides these core recommendations:
- Instead of immediately dismissing their interest, take the time for collaborative research on its benefits and potential challenges.
- If you’re considering this dietary shift, make gradual changes and test a plant-based diet for a few weeks or months to see how your family feels.
- Prepare a healthy pantry: Use weekends to create easy sauces, dips, and staples to facilitate healthy meal preparation during busy weekdays, reducing the temptation of less nutritious options.
Should you choose to adopt a vegan lifestyle, regularly consult a healthcare professional to ensure adequate intake of the following essential nutrients:
- protein
- fiber
- omega-3 fatty acids
- iron
- zinc
- iodine
- calcium
- vitamin D
- vitamin B12
Shift the conversation away from weight
Alysa and Daylana advocate for a change in how we communicate about body image, redirecting focus away from weight discussions.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, as triggers vary for individuals,” cautions Alysa, emphasizing the importance of mindful communication.
Daylana adds, “Comments like ‘You look so healthy’ can be harmful to someone who has just lost weight.”
Alysa concludes, “Acknowledging someone’s intrinsic qualities or achievements is far more meaningful than merely commenting on appearance.”
She suggests asking open-ended questions, such as, “You seem really happy lately! What’s been bringing you joy?” instead of saying, “You’ve lost weight, you look great!”
