Transforming lives with whole food, plant-based nutrition

About Us

Plant-Based U.P., formerly Plant-Based Marquette, improves the health and wellbeing of residents in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula by sharing the transformative power of whole food, plant-based nutrition.

Plant-Based U.P. got its start in the fall of 2022 as an initiative spearheaded by Skandia resident, Natasha Lantz, and Marquette physicians, Ryan Brang, MD and Katrina Brang, MD of Northcountry Health, and Evan Loukusa, MD. After a highly successful community event in January of 2023 and a follow up support session, the four of us found ourselves engrossed in work and family life, leaving little room for community outreach.

Late in 2024, Dr. Loukusa introduced Natasha to a new colleague, Maureen Bodenbach, PA-C, MSH, DipACLM. During an initial conversation between Maureen and Natasha, they discovered that Maureen is a graduate of the Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate Program offered by the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies where Natasha serves as the director of operations and communities.

In late spring of 2025, the universe conspired to bring the five of us together to continue the work that started in 2022. In order to be more inclusive, the name of our initiative became Plant-Based U.P.

What Is Whole Food, Plant-Based (WFPB)?

Whole food, plant-based combines fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, seeds, mushrooms, and nuts into a health-promoting way of eating and an
overall lifestyle life that improves one's personal wellness, places less strain on our precious natural resources, and contributes to a more equal and just world in
which all living beings are revered. WFPB eating makes intuitive sense, is based on sound science, and is sustainable over time.

Enjoy hearty, delicious meals that fill you up and leave you with more energy than you knew was possible.

Meet the Team

The passionate people behind Plant-Based U.P. are dedicated to advancing sustainable,
plant-based living through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Ryan Brang, MD, FAAFP

Medical Team Member

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Natasha Lantz

Events Coordinator

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Maureen Bodenbach, PA-C, MSH, DipACLM

Medical Team Member

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Evan Loukusa, MD

Medical Team Member

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Events

Plant-Based U.P. is a volunteer-led initiative offering education sessions, support groups, and health retreats. Visit our Events Page to see upcoming and past events.

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We Collaborate for Health

We believe lasting health is built through community, education, and collaboration. We are proud to partner with organizations that share our commitment to whole food, plant-based living and empowering healthier communities.