No meat, no problem. Did you know there are approximately 7.3 million people living in America who diet as vegetarians? For the sake of health and fitness, we decided to discuss more of the "cruelty-free" community and inform you of the benefits of this plant-based, animal-free diet.
What is a Vegetarian?
A vegetarian diet consists of eating fruits, grains, and vegetables while refraining from using animal meat or flesh as food. Some vegetarians while they do refrain from eating meat, will indulge in eggs or dairy products. Did you know there are different sub-groups of vegetarians?
According to the Vegetarian Nation, the subgroups of vegetarians are:
Lacto-Vegetarians: A vegetarian who will also eat dairy products.
Lacto-Ovo-Vegetarians: A vegetarian who will also eat eggs and dairy products.
Semi-Vegetarians: Two possible definitions include a person who primarily eats plant-based foods, but occasionally eats meat. Or a person who does not eat red meats.
Vegans: The practice of refraining from the use of all animal products. That means no meat, eggs, or dairy. This diet is absolutely plant-based. According to the Vegan Society, "Veganism is a way of living which seeks to exclude, as far as possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose."
Raw Vegans: A vegetarian on a plant-based diet that involves no cooking of their food. Meaning, no stovetop, just raw, "picked off the plant" fruits and vegetables.
Pollotarian: A vegetarian who will eat dairy, eggs, and poultry but will not eat red meat and seafood.
Pescatarian: A vegetarian who will consume seafood, eggs, and dairy.
Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet.
Becoming a vegetarian can be challenging to some, almost impossible for others, but it can be achieved with the proper amount of determination and motivation. But if you are still not ready to give up meat, it's okay you can start slowly by adding more plant-based foods or vegetarian options into your diet.
Adding more fruits and vegetables, filled with essential vitamins and minerals, can benefit the body. According to Vegan Society, plant-based nutrients can help mitigate health issues like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Most plants contain protein, iron, calcium to help promote body function. Pick up a fruit not only to satisfy your hunger but to also keep you feeling healthy and slim.
Tracking and planning a vegetarian diet can be difficult. You have to be on constant lookout for foods that contain animal products. Thankfully here at Doctors Best Weight Loss, we have delicious vegetarian options you will love. Diet right without compromising the delicious taste of our high-quality diet products.
