Meeting the Skinny Bitch Herself! Kim Barnouin Lecture & Book Signing

The Skinny Bitch herself came to Philly to talk about the “V” word.

Kim Barnouin, author of Skinny Bitch, discussed Veganism and her popular best-seller last evening at the Free Library of Philadelphia.  She brought up some interesting topics including: the often controversial tone of Skinny Bitch (She & co-author Rory talk like that in ‘real life’. Plus, America’s in a food crisis: we need “Tough Love”, not babying); the increased awareness of Veganism (the book came out 4 years ago and we’re now seeing veganism popularized by Kind Diet and more); organic foods and protein to name a few.

Kim also brought up the environmental impact of animal-based food.  The carbon footprint is huge:

• Apprx. 20% of the USA’s carbon footprint is due to our food system.
• 30% of the earth’s surface is used for livestock
• Food for a vegan can be produced on only 1/6 of an acre of land
• VS. 3 1/4 acres of land to produce food for a meat-eater.
• Shifting entirely from an average American diet to a veggie-based would reduce the same emissions as 8,000 miles driven per year. (Science Daily) Blogger’s note: Kim didn’t mention this one last night, but upon further reading it fit the theme.

Not ready to make the transition? Even smaller steps (reducing meat intake per week) can help big time.

When asked about raising Vegan children, she shared her struggle as a mother: She cooks vegan for her 3-year old but wants him to have a ‘normal’ childhood experiences/foods… Chuck-E-Cheese & all.  It makes sense –  she made the decision to go vegan as an adult, but kids can have a different social experiences.   This insight helped me realize that even authors face internal struggles while trying to achieve a healthy lifestyle – similar to the internal eco-conflicts I have.

Can’t get enough of Skinny Bitch?  Kim’s blog, the Healthy Bitch Daily has made my routine blog reads and shares food, green beauty & lifestyle tips plus noteworthy “bitches”.

Thanks for inspiring skinny “bitches” everywhere, Kim!

Posted by Julie