About Me
Hi, I’m Nada (that’s pronounced ned-a, and no it does not mean “nothing” it actually means dew drops in Arabic).
(Sorry, can you tell I've had issues with people mispronouncing my name?)
I’m 21, and am currently in my fourth and final year at university in Nottingham, England. Originally Egyptian, I was born and raised in the Kingdom of Bahrain – a tiny little island in the Middle East that I call home.
Egypt
Through my recent weight loss journey, I’ve found happiness in leading a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Bahrain
I’ve developed a strong passion for health, fitness and compassionate living. Hopefully through this blog, I’ll be able to share some of that with others.
About the blog
Plant-based diets occasionally get a bad rap for not being “healthy” or nutritious enough and the Middle East is no exception. Being a vegetarian from a young age I was constantly told that I wasn’t getting enough protein and I was probably severely malnourished. Family gatherings were always filled with incredulity (picture the “You don’t eat no MEAT?!” scene from My Big Fat Greek Wedding about a hundred times over), and my friends constantly joked that I had a weak immune system because of my vegetarianism. While I do agree that some vegan/vegetarian diets can be unhealthy (you’d be surprised at the amount of vegan-friendly junk foods), I’m certain that if executed correctly, plant based diets can be perfectly nutritionally balanced.
My aim for setting up this blog is to chronicle my ongoing journey to health and share my passion for healthy, vegan Middle Eastern food with others. That said, I cover a wide range of topics including my take on healthy food (both Middle Eastern and otherwise), exercise, veganism and thriving on a vegan diet. I’m no expert as such, but I try my best to share simple tips that anyone looking to eat a little healthier can incorporate.
I don’t wish to impose or force my views on anyone. I know that veganism, and even vegetarianism is not for everyone, but in this day and age of chronic disease a lot of people have health on the brain, and I think everyone can benefit from adding more plant-based sources of nutrition to their diet. The human body is truly amazing and most people would be shocked at what it is capable of when you feed it the right fuel. Heather Mills once said “You wouldn’t put Diesel in an unleaded engine would you? So think about what you’re putting into your body.”
Whether you’re looking to go vegan, lead a healthier lifestyle, or are just plain curious about what an Arab vegan’s diet entails – lend me your ears (eyes?). I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Just ran across your blog from Jen’s (Jen and Berries) and I’m glad I did! You are gorgeous and I just love the meaning of your name. Looking forward to reading more!
Ahhh disregard my previous comment! Nice to get to know you better. Very much looking forward to your veganised versions of Middle Eastern favourites > will be useful as plenty of my coaching clients are Saudi. I’m going to repost your blog on my facebook page here if you don’t mind? http://www.facebook.com/GirlonRaw2
So glad to have found your blog! Middle eastern food is my absolute favorite, and I love your vegan spin! Can’t wait to learn about some healthy, delicious dishes to try!
My gosh you are gorgeous! Im loving your blog.
you are so cute! so glad to have stumbled across your blog
my sisters a vegetarian so i’m always looking for new recipes that she may like! loved reading about you!
xoxo
Love your blog! always nice running into other vegans!
Loving your blog! Your so pretty
I’ve been to Egypt once..the weather was great!
Nada’s such a lovely name! Egypt looks gorgeous; it’s right up there at my list of must-go-to places!
I know what you mean; I did a week as a vegan to write a feature in the paper and everyone in the office was saying I’d starve and be coming in on a stretcher by the end of the week – they changed their tune when I brought in vegan chocolate cake though
I’m so glad you found my blog as now I have found yours!
It’s brilliant! I can’t wait to read more!
love this blog!!!!!
You’re beautiful!
I love your about page.
I love your sidebar area where it says “welcome to one Arab vegan…” because I love that picture of the tea!!!
I am SO happy you came and visited my blog – I absolutely adore you! And your blog, but mostly you
You are so lovely, let’s keep in touch.
Hi Nada,
I live in Bahrain for the last 3 years. I am so bowled over by the arab sweets and few of the vegetarian snacks. I am a vegetarian ( that includes diary products but no egg, meat etc) by faith and practice. Hope to add vegetarian Middle eastern recipes to my repertoire through your blog. A wonderful blog with a wonderful mission.
All the best!!!
Hey Nada
I just wanted to say that I really enjoy reading your blog. I really love the looks of your vegnized Middle Eastern recipes, and your focus on living a healthy lifestyle – especially after almost falling victim to an eating disorder.
I have nominated your blog for a Liebster award, as well
So check out my blog post for the details: http://healthykitschyvegan.wordpress.com/2012/01/09/im-all-warm-and-fuzzy-on-the-inside/
Hi,
Just wanted to say thanks for blogging! I’m glad to have found this one; it’s great. All the best!
[...] I have “met” Ann, Coco, Sarah B., Katie, Elise, Matt (love my No Meat Athlete shirt!), Nada, Kristen, Yvonne, and Steph. Sonja and Alex. Heidi. I have actually met another Katy, [...]
Hej, I just came across your blog and I have to say it’s great and very interesting
Greetings from Germany