Interview with Gina Cracchiolo - Vegan Cyclist

Meet Gina Cracchiolo, a vegan cyclist from Florida. Gina has led an active lifestyle for many years. Before she became the avid cyclist she now is, Gina was a bodybuilder for 25 years. She is living proof that as an athlete, vegan health not only drives overall performance, but also quality of life. 

I do not suffer from inflammation as a result of being vegan. I can also think more efficiently.

How long have you been vegan?
7 years

What led you to become vegan?
I love animals and choose not to eat them.

Do you have any influencers or favorite books?
I follow Buddhist philosophy and realized it was part of the path to be vegan.

What sports, activities, adventures do you do? Do you compete in any of them?
I am an avid cyclist and I am training to compete in road races. Before that, I was a bodybuilder for 25 years. 

Do you have any big events or races planned for 2015? 
My first race is in April, 2015 in the Everglades.

How does eating vegan improve your performance?
I do not suffer from inflammation as a result of being vegan. I can also think more efficiently.

What are your favorite 5 top things to eat?
I love kale, ranch style beans, avocado, red bliss potatoes, and love, love, love blueberries!

Explain your nutrition routine.
I eat a healthy amount of oatmeal with soy protein, walnuts, ground flax, fruit, cashew milk in which I make into oatmeal cakes. They are so delicious. They give me the energy I need for my ride. Four days a week I ride 10-12 miles each time. My two days off from work is when I ride 30 to 40 miles.

What's your primary source of essential fatty acids (EFAs)?
Olive oil, flax and walnuts

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

What are your other favorite plant proteins?
Lentils
Beans (all varieties)
Brown Rice
Chickpeas
Seeds
Kale
Broccoli

What essential tips do you have for athletes moving to 100% plant-based?
Cut the other foods out slowly so that your body doesn't go into a shock. I gradually cut foods out. Dairy was the last to go.

In as few words as possible, what does being a VEGAN ATHLETE mean to you?
It means I am healthy and young for my years. I am not only doing myself a favor but also the planet and her beings.

What is your motto? Your mantra? Do you have a famous quote?
A body in motion, stays in motion.

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