The Benefits of Being Vegetarian- They Might Make You Go Green!
March 25 2016
Vegetarianism is increasingly replacing traditional eating choices. While some of us seek to live healthier and live longer, others opt for eating choices that preserve the environment.
Thanks to the year-round availability of fresh produce, vegetarianism has become a more convenient dining option. According to an estimate, over 7 million adults in the U.S. now follow vegetarian-based diet. Moreover, about one million have become vegan by giving up not only meat, but all animal-based products, like egg, milk, and even gelatin.
Recent studies on vegetarianism have confirmed the health benefits of plant-based eating. Besides offering nutritional benefits, vegetarianism is also known to curb the risks of certain chronic diseases.
Let’s have a look at why vegetarianism is growingly becoming a preferred choice and why you may wish to consider it too.
Helps Reduce Weight
Processed foods that are rich in saturated fats, complex carbohydrates, and low in plant nutrients are the main cause of 
obesity. According to a study by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2 in 3 American adults are overweight or obese. The problem is typically attributable to energy imbalances due to poor eating habits and unhealthy lifestyle.
Prevent Numerous Deadly Diseases
People with unhealthy weight are vulnerable to a number of life-
threatening and debilitating diseases, including cardiac problems, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, stroke, as well as breast, colon, and kidney cancer. A vegetarian diet is generally considered to be a healthier alternative that can prevent, treat and even reverse heart diseases in addition to reducing the risks of cancer. With its low-fat properties, a vegetarian diet can also impede the development of coronary artery disease, or even prevent it entirely.
Although cardiovascular disease kills more than 1 million Americans every year, the mortality rate is far lower among vegetarians. This is mainly because they consume less animal fat and cholesterol, besides eating more fiber and anti-oxidant rich foods.
Builds Stronger Bones
As you age, you may become more vulnerable to bone-related diseases, like osteoporosis and arthritis. These problems occur when there is insufficient calcium in the blood stream to be utilized by the body. This results in bone leaching, leading to porous and weak bones at a later stage in life. Given that, health care practitioners recommend increasing the intake of calcium through foods. Dry beans, soy milk, tofu, and vegetables like kale, broccoli, turnip greens and collards are some great sources of phosphorous, vitamin D and magnesium that are necessary for the body to absorb and use calcium.
If you are at a high risk of heart disease, weight problems, or other health issues, consider replacing your meals with a fiber-rich vegetarian diet. Our vegetarian meal plan helps ensure that you are eating the right balance of nutrients to meet your body’s requirements and helps maintain optimal health. Subscribe to our vegetarian meal plan program today.
