These are 4 reasons why you should start a vegetarian diet TODAY!

Understand what a vegetarian diet is

The idea of ​​vegetarianism arose in Ancient Egypt, through religious people who believed that abstaining from meat would lead to reincarnation. Therefore, animals considered sacred by them, such as oxen and cows, could not be used as food.

In the contemporary world, the vegetarian diet consists of a pattern of food consumption that includes products of plant origin , with the aim of totally or partially eliminating the intake of any type of meat.

This pattern can be adopted for health reasons or personal beliefs, but know that this type of diet is open to anyone who wants to try an alternative diet to the models prevailing in the local culture .

Even though vegetarianism excludes the presence of animal meat, it is still possible to have proteins on the menu, after all, they are essential for the proper functioning of the body, as in addition to regulating metabolism, they preserve immunity.

To give you an idea, you can find them in the following plant sources :

• Edamame (or green soybeans).
• White beans (and other types).
• Legumes (lentils and chickpeas).
• Seeds (pumpkin and sunflower).
• Between others.

Characteristics of the vegetarian diet

Followers understand vegetarianism as a philosophy of life. The reasons that lead them to adopt the practice are related to some issues, such as religion, lifestyle and health.

In certain religions , such as Adventism and Hinduism, not eating animal meat is related to their principles. As a symbol of respect, such doctrines instruct their followers to avoid eating it, since for them, certain animals are sacred. In this way, vegetarianism becomes part of their routines.

Furthermore, a sustainable lifestyle is one of the fundamental troubles for folks that choose a vegetarian weight-reduction plan, aiming for a decrease environmental impact. According to the United Nations (2013), round 14.5% of greenhouse gasoline emissions result from livestock farming .

Finally, a few people who observe a vegetarian weight loss program are trying to find a more healthy existence via this diet, which presents several benefits for private nicely-being. In addition, the practice is in keeping with non-public ideals.

Types of vegetarianism

Below, you can see the most common types of vegetarianism:

1. Lacto-ovo vegetarian

The lacto-ovo vegetarian eating regimen is the maximum common and is taken into consideration the “gateway” for humans to adopt a vegetarian weight-reduction plan , as it is very flexible. In this diet, the consumption of animal-based products, which include eggs, milk and dairy products, is allowed.

2. Lactovegetarian

Lactovegetarianism is somewhat limited, as it includes only plant-based products and dairy products , excluding the total intake of any type of meat.

3. Ovovegetarian

The ovo-vegetarian diet’s choice of foods revolves predominantly around vegetables and the consumption of eggs while all forms of dairy products and other forms of meat are avoided.

4. Pescetarian

Seafood such as shrimp, lobster, and octopus as well as fish is a part of the diet, along with dairy and eggs. This particular eating style however does not include other meats.

5. Strict vegetarianism

Similar to veganism, it excludes all foods of animal origin and relies entirely on a plant-based diet .

Although there are different types of plant-based diets, the first step is to seek out a specialist professional to get good guidance and avoid nutritional deficiencies in the body.

The Real Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, vegetables play an important role in the body . With addition to responsible strengthening of the immune system, they help in the process of digestion of food. Being rich in nutrients, their consumption becomes necessary for those who want to maintain good health.

By consuming these foods, the sugar in the blood can be leveled , because excess sugar helps in storing fat in the body. In other words, vegetarianism is a great choice for those who want to combat bad eating habits.

According to the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a plant-based diet can be beneficial for your health. Below are the 4 main benefits of adopting a vegetarian diet:

1. Improves cardiovascular health

Frequent intake of fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can benefit in many ways, including enhancing cholesterol levels in the blood and reducing inflammation in the body . This way, a vegetarian diet helps reduce cardiovascular risks.

2. Controls type 2 diabetes

As pointed out earlier, blood glucose levels can be lowered since most of them contain nutrients and antioxidants that control blood sugar levels in the body . This allows lowering the threat of insulin resistance and thus diabetes control .

3. Helps with weight control

A vegetarian diet is yet another very great way for many people looking to lose weight since the vegetables have very little calories and because of their high fiber contents, one is full or at least less hungry.

This notwithstanding, the intake of whole grains and cereals like rice and flour has to be considered because these help in the feeling of fullness and, if their proportion is wrongly consumed, they contribute to weight gain.

4. Assists in the hypertrophy process

For good hypertrophy results, it is essential to balance a few issues like training, nutrition, and rest. A vegetarian diet rich in carbohydrates and proteins helps in the process of muscle gain because antioxidants in vegetables prevent acute inflammation and aid in muscle recovery. However, all said, can it be healthy to be a vegetarian?

Protein is also largely associated with animal meat, but a vegetarian diet can be healthy, nutritious, and beneficial for everyone. But to do this, one must take some precautions before opting for this way of eating!

Understand first what motivated you to choose this kind of diet and whether you can adjust it to your daily routine before deciding which type of vegetarian diet is best for you.

Another important concern for those who wish to be healthy with a vegetarian diet is to be checked by doctors and nutritionists . Some people decide to give up meat on their own and this can lead to health issues, such as lack of nutrients and vitamin B12 deficiency (which is not found in vegetables).