Thinking About Going Vegetarian? Here are Some Facts

Let's face it - we live in a steak and potato society. People who don't eat meat are looked at more than a little suspiciously in this country. But what are the facts? Is a plant based diet good for you, bad for you or makes no difference?

Let's set the record straight and debunk some misinformation about vegetarianism:

Myth: Eating a vegetarian diet is healthier for you. The truth is that eating a vegetarian diet is good for you and, in general, people who don't eat meat take in fewer calories than those who do. The bad news is that this isn't always true. There are a ton of vegetarian recipes that contain enough calories and fat to rival a night out at McDonalds. No matter if you're completely avoiding meat, a healthy diet means eating foods that are low in salt, fat and calories.

Myth: Going on a vegetarian diet means the end of exciting, good tasting meals. The truth is that any diet becomes boring when you eat the same things day after day. There are so many ingredients available and different ways of putting them together that, with a little imagination, you can come up with vegetarian recipes that will have your family clamoring for more.

Myth: There really aren't many vegetarians. According to a 1994 National Roper Poll it has been estimated that about 20% of the population of the United States define themselves as vegetarian with many more describing themselves as interested in consuming more vegetarian based meals. While still in the minority, vegetarians make up a rapidly growing segment of society. If you're still skeptical, go onto google and do a search for "vegetarian recipes" to see how many millions of hits you get.

Myth: If you go to a vegetarian diet you can forget about ever feeling full or satisfied. The truth is if you're eating lots of plant foods, you're also getting a lot of fiber and fiber is what makes your stomach feel full. Also, if you're eating legumes like red, black and kidney beans you're also getting the protein you need to satisfy your feelings of hunger.

Myth: If you go on a vegetarian diet, you're in danger of starving yourself of the protein your body needs. The truth is that it's very easy to get the protein you need strictly through plant based sources. Being vegetarian does not mean you won't be getting enough protein in your diet. Since so many plant foods include protein it would actually be difficult to go on a vegetarian diet and come up short on protein. In fact, too much protein can contribute to problems with your health. Most health experts now believe that one of the benefits of a vegetarian diet is that it includes just the right amount of protein.

Myth: A vegetarian diet is not suitable for children or pregnant women. The truth is that a vegetarian diet can be healthy for everyone, including during pregnancy. Protein is protein whether you get it from plants or from animal foods. Remember to take vitamin supplements and consult with your doctor to ensure that you're getting the right levels of nutrition.

Myth: If you become a vegetarian you will never have to worry about cancer and heart disease. While it's true that a vegetarian diet can reduce your risk of certain types of heart disease and cancer there are other contributing factors that are equally, if not more, important. A sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive drinking, obesity, high blood pressure and heredity play an enormous role in your overall health and can't be offset by simply avoiding meat.

Myth: Eating meat is just a lot easier than eating a vegetarian diet. The truth is that it's very easy to find vegetarian choices at restaurants these days. Even fast food places are now offering vegetarian dishes on the menu due to the great demand for them and these dishes are also generally lower in cost. Cooking delicious vegetarian meals at home also takes about the same amount of preparation time as meat-based dishes and often takes less.

Myth: A vegetarian diet can provide you with all of the vitamins you need to be healthy. The truth is that while you can get most of the nutrition you need from a vegetarian diet, there are still some that you will need to supplement to stay healthy. Two vitamins that should be supplemented are vitamin D and vitamin B12. Vitamin D is created in our bodies through the action of sunlight on our skin but it's very difficult to get enough vitamin D this way to stay healthy. This is especially true for those who live further from the equator and for those who have fair skin and tend to use sunblock on a regular basis. The only completely reliable sources of vitamin B12 are animal products such as meat and eggs. If you are on a strict vegan diet, you should make sure you take B12 supplements to avoid the possibility of anemia.

There are many more myths and misunderstandings about vegetarianism. The truth is that a vegetarian diet won't solve all of your health problems and concerns but can be a healthy, satisfying life choice.

John Fleming
Health Correspondent
http://www.healthyliving411.com

Learn more about diet and health. Visit HealthyLiving411.com where you can find reviews and information to choose the best healthy lifestyle for you.

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