Vegan vs. Whole Food Plant-Based – What You Need to Know

Discover the powerful truth about healthy eating for women over 60 with Molly Patrick, co-founder of Clean Food Dirty Girl. In this episode of the Plant-Based Eating for Health podcast, hosted by Kathleen Gage, Molly reveals the real difference between vegan and whole food plant-based diets—and why it matters for your health, energy, and longevity.

You’ll learn how older women can thrive with a nutrient-dense lifestyle, why you can still eat vegan and be unhealthy, and how to make whole food plant-based eating simple, affordable, and delicious. Molly shares her top batch cooking tips, explains the role of minimally processed foods like tofu and tempeh, and offers strategies for overcoming cravings without feeling deprived.

Did you know that cravings can be influenced by our brain's reward center and dopamine? This video explores the biology and neuroscience behind food addiction and hyperpalatable foods. Learn about how processed foods are designed to trigger the bliss point food and what causes cravings.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your plant-based journey, this episode is packed with actionable advice on meal prep, setting healthy boundaries with non-vegan family members, and embracing aging with vitality.

Listen now and find out how to fuel your body, mind, and spirit at any age: www.veganvisibility.com/148-Molly-Patrick

Episode Highlights

[00:00] Introduction

[02:00] Vegetarian to vegan to plant based…Molly’s journey.

[05:00] The truth about UPFs, age and healthy eating.

[11:00] Molly’s mission is coaching and mentorship.

[17:30] Working with an older demographic and accepting changes.

[21:00] Baby steps to healthy success.

[26:00] WFPB is not always convenient, but it’s worth it.

[31:00] Why our bodies hang on to calories and fat as we age.

[36:45] Being mindful of the attention grabbers.

[43:00] The end of dieting happens fast with plant based eating.

44:45] Reigniting passion as we age with food.

[49:00] Taste is essential if you are going to influence others with food.

[52:00] Very cost effective eating during times of inflation.