In the face of a worldwide pandemic, diet and nutrition are one of the utmost important factors to keep you safe and healthy. There are many different types of diets, vegetarianism is one that you have most likely heard about before.
Vegetarianism is a diet that consists of excluding animal flesh such as beef, fish, pork, turkey, and any other animal. It is often confused with veganism which restricts more food items. Under vegetarianism, you are still able to consume animal products, just not the flesh itself. A cousin of vegetarianism is the pescatarian diet which allows you to consume seafood.
The vegetarian diet consists of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, dairy, and nuts.
The Protein Problem
A lot of individuals have misconceptions towards getting their protein intake on a vegetarian diet. Meat is not the only way to get protein in believe it or not. You can get protein from foods such as yogurt, eggs, beans, tofu, and even some vegetables have protein in them. Some plant foods that contain protein are green peas, lentils, and chickpeas. Dairy products such as Greek yogurt contain high amounts of protein. You can also incorporate protein shakes into your diet.
Vegetarian Diet & Weight
Vegetarian diet can promote weight loss because it focuses on shifting the bulk of the food being low-calorie foods that are rich in nutrients such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and nuts. Plant food is loaded with health protecting nutrients. Animal products are much higher in fat.
Meat eaters are likely to suffer from higher obesity rates than vegetarians. Actually, meat eaters are three times more likely to be overweight than their vegetarian counterparts. Even a moderate adherence to a vegetarian diet can cause your health to improve and weight to decrease.
A Beginner’s Guide
You should start by diversifying fruits, vegetables, grains, healthy fats, and proteins. Pick foods that you like to incorporate into your diet.
Be mindful of some of the nutrients that may be lacking on a vegetarian diet:
- Protein
- Omega 3 Fats
- Iron
- Vitamin B12
