Generally speaking, people living in a western society still tend to believe that one needs to eat meat and other animal products in order to remain healthy.
In fact, if someone chooses to follow a different path in terms of their diet, such as a person opting to eat vegetarian meals, they’re usually frowned upon.
Fortunately however, more and more people are starting to discover the many health benefits to be had from eating a vegetarian diet. On top of that, many doctors and other health professionals have begun prescribing vegetarian meals to people who are suffering from certain conditions.
Although the concept of vegetarianism is seen by many as being a relatively new concept, it has in fact been around for hundreds of years already. In fact, this is especially apparent in countries such as India for example, where a large percentage of the population refrain from eating meat, either for spiritual reasons or for health reasons. Interestingly enough, a group of people living near the Himalayan Mountains, known as the “Hunza”, are devout vegetarians, and if reports are anything to go by, many of them live past the age of 100.
According to the American Dietetic Association, a vegetarian diet includes the following benefits: 1) lower body fat; 2) lower levels of saturated fat; 3) lower cholesterol levels; 4) higher levels of antioxidant vitamins and minerals; 5) lower blood pressure; 6) lower instances of some cancers; 7) lower rates of type-2 diabetes; 8) lower rates of heart disease.
Obesity, one of the major health concerns in this country, can be addressed with a vegetarian diet, one that eliminates excess protein and animal fat consumption, and increases fiber in the form of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Those who consume a vegetarian diet maintain a lower body mass index (BMI), which significantly aids in the treatment and management of other chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes.
One common question asked by anyone considering a vegetarian diet is: “Will I get enough protein?” That is certainly a valid concern, as protein is necessary for the building, maintenance and function of all body cells. However, according the American Dietetic Association, a varied and well-balanced vegetarian diet provides all the protein the body needs from eating such things as whole grains, beans, nuts and soy products.
Contrary to what many believe, a meat based diet usually provides a person with too much protein, and several studies are now starting to suggest that too much protein can be detrimental to your body. In fact, one study even reports that excessive protein intake can reduce kidney function by as much as 30 % by the time you reach old age. Some health professionals also believe there’s a link between protein and osteoporosis.
Switching to a vegetarian diet doesn’t mean your meals will only consist of celery sticks, apples and nuts. After all, thousands of people eat vegetarian meals in a number of combinations. These would include, but are not limited to:
Lacto vegetarians, eat dairy products, but don’t eat meat or eggs.
Lacto-ovo vegetarians – no meat , but eggs and dairy products are consumed.
Ovo vegetarians do not eat meat or dairy products, but will eat eggs.
Vegans will not eat meat, eggs, dairy products, or any other kind of animal products for that matter.
There are nowadays an abundance of health organizations which are promoting vegetarian diets and diets which include primarily plant based foods.
Likewise, practically all restaurants and grocery stores now stock a wide range of vegetarian meals and other vegetarian foods so that people may find it easier to live a healthy lifestyle.
Anyone who takes the time to do some online research will soon discover there’s a wealth of information available to them which supports a vegetarian lifestyle.
At the end of the day, being a vegetarian is perfectly acceptable, and in fact, the benefits are so numerous, they could even end up saving your life one day, or at least, they could help you enjoy a better quality of life.
Tap into Charles Carr’s extensive culinary experience as a home cook, and what he has learn from a few master chefs by getting free access to his vegetarian guide. In addition, here’s a free special report Master Chef Secrets on how you can save a bundle of money on your culinary equipment.