I have already been honest enough to say that what really got me interested in learning more about vegan wasn’t animal rights first. It was weight loss.
I have never, ever, seen anyone who claims to be a vegan with a big fat gut! Infact… most of them look like that could use a few more pounds.
As with any diet, a vegan diet requires some planning. However, when done correctly, a vegan diet can be considerably healthier than the traditional American diet. And it will help you lose weight… and keep it off!
In its position paper on vegetarian diets, the American Dietetic Association reported that vegan and vegetarian diets can significantly reduce one’s risk of contracting heart disease, colon and lung cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension, obesity, and a number of other debilitating conditions.
Cows’ milk contains ideal amounts of fat and protein for young calves, but far too much for humans. And eggs are higher in cholesterol than any other food, making them a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease.
Vegan foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans, are low in fat, contain no cholesterol, and are rich in fiber and nutrients. Vegans can get all the protein they need from legumes (beans, tofu, peanuts) and grains (rice, com, whole wheat breads and pastas); calcium from broccoli, kale, collard greens, tofu, fortified juices and soymilks; iron from chickpeas, spinach, pinto beans, and soy products; and B12 from fortified foods or supplements. More on this later.
consumption is unhealthy. Grains, legumes and soybeans contain plenty of protein.
Vegetarian foods do not have to be boring. Spice it up! For example, veggies and rice with some Teriyaki sauce is delicious and as filling as any meat dish you can think of while being far healthier for you and easier on animals and the environment.
So why not give a vegetarian diet a try and give our environment a break. Your body will thank you and so will the animals, and the planet!
Next we will look at the biggest myths, and incorrect assumptions, about a meatless diet.