Interview with All Around Vegan Athlete: Sami Page

Meet Sami Page, an all around vegan athlete and D1 soccer player from Seattle. Sami's inspiration and passion for Veganism is contagious! Her positive energy really shows what a vegan lifestyle means. Sami also runs a rockin' food Instagram called @dudethatsmyfood, so be sure to check it out! "Being vegan makes me energized, awake, and light when I compete!" - Sami

How long have you been vegan?
2 years

What led you to become vegan?
Animal rights, environment, health

Do you have any influencers or favorite books?
I'm inspired by anyone who values living a healthy, active, cruelty free lifestyle! Its gets me excited about life.  

What sports, activities, adventures do you do? 
I played D1 soccer at the University of Washington. I also enjoy doing yoga, hiking, and running on my off days.

Do you have any big events or races planned for 2015? 
Now that my soccer career is over I don't compete in anything too serious. I mostly stay active for pleasure and not so much more competition anymore.

How does eating vegan improve your performance?
Being vegan makes me energized, awake, and light when I compete!

What are your favorite 5 top things to eat?
Dates and almond butter, tacos/burritos, veggie sushi, and a good tofu scramble

How about bars and smoothies?
Lara bars and Luna bars! I had one just about every single day before early morning soccer practices

Explain your nutrition routine.
Before I work out I typically have some kind of nutrition bar (Luna or Cliff) and a banana. During my workout, I stick to water and avoid sugary Gatorade drinks because they just make me feel more thirsty. If I did some kind of activity by myself like yoga or running I love coming home and making a huge fruit and spinach smoothie with various 'boosts' I have in my pantry like flax seed, chia seed, hemp seed, or a scoop of plant based protein powder. My favorite protein powder is MRM Veggie Protein Vanilla. I love to top my smoothies with refined sugar free granola or more chia/hemp seed. Post soccer game I was always given a pre-ordered meal that was usually a Chipotle burrito bowl (sofitas and black beans for protein!) or a sandwich. The night before a big soccer game we typically went to an Italian place to a good carb heavy meal. I always stuck to a tomato based sauce and had the restaurant add extra grilled vegetables to whatever entree I got. 

What's your primary source of essential fatty acids (EFAs)?
Hemp Seeds/Oil

What are you go to choices for complete proteins (including all essential amino acids)?
Soy

What are your other favorite plant proteins?
Beans (all varieties)
Chickpeas
Broccoli

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What essential tips do you have for athletes moving to 100% plant-based?
Don't over due the amount of vegetables you eat before working out because it can cause a lot of bloating. Make sure you are eating substantial calories for the amount of activity you are doing. Make sure you get in your post work out protein! Bars and shakes are perfect and easy. Don't let people convince you that you will be weaker, slower, and tired from sticking to a plant based diet and being an athlete. You don't need animal products to be strong and healthy. Get educated and do your research! 

In as few words as possible, what does being a VEGAN ATHLETE mean to you?
Thriving

What is your motto? Your mantra? Do you have a famous quote?
Keep your body strong, mind sharp, soul nourished, and spirit positive.

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