A vegetarian is someone who doesn’t eat meat
of any kind.
No fish, no beef, no pork, nadda.
However this person may eat some animal products like honey, or eggs.
A person can be a vegetarian for a number of reasons, moral, religious, or plain old
dietary restrictions.
Whether or not you’re a veggie, there are some benefits to this lifestyle, which we’ll
explain coming up in this video!
But first, you know the drill, hit that subscribe button and notification bell too.
First of all we want to put you at ease if you’re worried about some of the negative
effects of becoming an Herbivore.
The biggest one that comes to mind is vitamin deficiencies.
For a really long time it was believed that your main source of protein and iron and key
vitamins came from meat alone.
However in recent years studies are beginning to show the benefits of leaving animals off
your plate.
In fact, sticking to a plant-based diet could possibly counteract some chronic illnesses.
But before you start researching the best veggie burgers available, there’s a few
guidelines about becoming veggie you should know.
The main, and most important thing is that, like any diet, you need to be aware of what’s
good for you and the things your body needs.
Because you’re avoiding meat, you’ll have to fill the void of what you’d normally
get from meat products.
You really can’t just eat oreos and pop tarts and call that a healthy “plant-based”
diet.
There’s no plants in oreos, just delicious double stuff.
What you want is lots and lots of variety.
Afterall it is the spice of life.
But what we mean by variety is a healthy mix of veggies, fruits, and whole grains.
HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL says that you should also try and swap out the saturated and trans
fats for good, healthy fats like avocados, nuts and olive oil.
Plant-based diets are becoming more popular these days and there’s many different types
of veggie diets that you can choose from.
It’s best to pick one that works with your lifestyle, then you’re more likely to stick
to it, without a lot of effort.
HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL once again outlines the different types of vegetarianism like
this: Vegans (total vegetarians): Do not eat meat,
poultry, fish, or any products derived from animals, including eggs, dairy products, and
gelatin.
Lacto-ovo vegetarians: Do not eat meat, poultry, or fish, but do eat eggs and dairy products.
Lacto vegetarians: Eat no meat, poultry, fish, or eggs, but do consume dairy products.
Ovo vegetarians: Eat no meat, poultry, fish, or dairy products, but do eat eggs.
Partial vegetarians: Avoid meat but may eat fish (pescatarian) or poultry (pollo-vegetarian).
Sometimes people start off with becoming partial vegetarians, and then working your way up
to full veggie, or vegan.
LIke we said before, pick the one that works best for you and your personal choices.
Now, on to some great benefits of becoming a vegetarian.
1 - It’s just better for you: The fact that you’re choosing foods that are automatically
less processed, and contain fewer chemicals means you’re being kinder to your body.
We’re told from a very young age to eat our veggies, and by introducing them more
into your diet, you’ll be giving you whole system the rush of vitamins and minerals it
craves.
2 - Lowers your Cholesterol.
Cholesterol only comes from consuming animal products, and some dairy.
If you’re not eating any meat or full fat dairy products then you’re cutting out your
cholesterol intake completely.
HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL says having lower cholesterol has been shown to give you a longer life,
and can reduce the risk of many chronic illnesses.
3 - Reduces the risk of diabetes.
Because you’ll be eating things that are more natural, and less processed (like hot
dogs) you’re likely to have lower blood sugar, reducing your risk of diabetes.
Keep in mind, regular exercise is really important as well, but a plant-based diet can really
make a difference.
4 - A healthy glow.
Normally when people say you’re glowing it’s in reference to pregnancy.
However, a vegetarian diet can help your skin appear more hydrated.
Things like raw veggies that are water based will naturally put more water into your system.
Also vegetables are packed with antioxidants that help fight off disease.
The healthier you are inside, the more it’ll show on the outside.
5 - It’s good for your gut.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “add more fiber” before.
That’s because fiber keeps us regular, and is necessary for proper digestive health.
Guess what has lots of fiber?
Seeds!
According to HEALTH LINE Chia seeds are one of the best sources of fiber on the planet!
They also contain magnesium, phosphorus and calcium for an added benefit.
Popcorn is also a great source of fiber.
Not the stuff you buy at the movies, unfortunately that treat is usually dripping with butter
and salt.
We mean the kind you make at home, free of any extras.
It’s a wonderful, quick and easy snack for a veggie.
6 - Your mental health will improve.
This indian based website notes that vegetarians have a better chance of being happier in their
day to day, than those who eat meat.
They continue to say that it could be because you’re consuming fresh organic food that’s
not only great for your body but can cleanse your mind and steer you towards more positive
thinking.
7 - The planet will thank you.
THE INDEPENDENT released a story that outlines how veganism could be the biggest way you
can reduce your carbon footprint on the planet.
THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD found that leaving animals off the menu can cut your personal
effect on the planet by 73 percent.
That is a massive number.
The same study also showed that it’s not just reducing your carbon emissions, it’s
reducing water consumption and the fact that we would be freeing up farmland (buy consuming
less animals that need this farmland) as well.
Agriculture is one of the biggest causes of wildlife extinction.
Will all of those benefits in mind, for your body and your planet, how do you feel about
vegetarianism now?
We’re not saying you have to become vegetarian or give up your favourite foods, we just want
you to feel your best everyday!
Remember there’s many different types of vegetarian and finding one that works for
you is the best route to take.
Plus becoming vegetarian is very popular and there’s a million and one amazing recipes
for you and your family to enjoy.
If becoming a full time vegetarian isn’t your cup of tea, then maybe trying it once
a week with your family will be a fun challenge, and a way for you to up your vegetable intake.
And that’s the video!
What did you think of all the different kinds of vegetarianism?
Are you going to leave animals off your plate now that you know the benefits?
Are you currently a veggie, and have some great recipes you’d like to share?
Why not let us know in the comments section below what type of vegetarian (or non-vegetarian)
you are!