xDemi Cross didn’t start out as a plant-based enthusiast. In fact, her early twenties were filled with late-night pizza runs and processed snacks during work breaks. But after years of dealing with chronic fatigue, joint pain, and mysterious skin flare-ups, she knew something had to change.
What began as a simple curiosity about anti-inflammatory foods evolved into a complete lifestyle shift centered around plant-based eating.
The turning point came after a conversation with her naturopath. “I didn’t want to rely on ibuprofen for the rest of my life,” Demi recalls. “So I asked if there was something I could do with food instead.” The advice was simple: eliminate inflammation triggers and focus on whole, plant-based meals. It sounded straightforward, but putting it into practice required some creativity—and plenty of trial and error.
Demi started by cutting out processed meats, refined sugars, and dairy. In their place, she loaded up on leafy greens, sweet potatoes, lentils, turmeric, and berries. One of her favorite meals now? A warm quinoa bowl with roasted carrots, steamed kale, chickpeas, and a tahini-turmeric dressing. “It’s grounding, colorful, and my joints don’t ache after I eat it,” she says with a laugh.
Unlike many restrictive diets, Demi’s approach doesn’t feel punishing. She doesn’t count calories or stress over carbs. Instead, she focuses on building meals with vibrant plants and anti-inflammatory spices. “When I nourish my body this way, I feel sharper mentally, calmer emotionally, and more energetic physically.”
What surprised her most was how quickly her symptoms improved. Within three weeks of shifting to a plant-based plan, the brain fog lifted and her skin began to clear. By week six, she could get through a full day without needing a nap or reaching for pain meds.
The change wasn’t just physical—it was emotional too. “I finally felt in control of my own health,” Demi says. “Food became something that helped me rather than hurt me.” Now, she shares her journey through social media and community cooking classes, hoping to inspire others dealing with unexplained inflammation or low energy.
For Demi, it’s not about being perfect. She still enjoys the occasional plant-based burger or dairy-free dessert. But the foundation of her meals stays the same: real, whole foods that support her body’s natural healing.
And while she doesn’t claim to have all the answers, her story is a testament to the power of plant-based living—especially when it’s done with intention and self-compassion. “You don’t have to go vegan overnight,” she advises. “Just start by adding one anti-inflammatory meal a day. Your body will thank you.”
