Even if you’re not interested in becoming a vegetarian or vegan there are plenty of reasons to up your intake of plant-based meals. In my private practice
more of my clients are experimenting with meatless cuisine than ever
before, and they’re reaping the rewards. Here are five powerful benefits
to embracing your inner herbivore–even part-time.
Weight loss
In an Oxford University study of nearly 38,000 adults, researchers
found that meat-eaters tended to have the highest body mass index (BMI)
for their age and vegans the lowest, with vegetarians and
semi-vegetarians in between. Another published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
compared over 10,000 vegetarians and nonvegetarians, and found that BMI
values were higher in nonvegetarians in all age groups for both
genders. In addition, weight gain over a 5-year period was lowest among
people who adopted a diet containing fewer animal foods.
The reason? Plant-based meals tend to be richer in antioxidants and
fiber, which are both tied to weight loss, and researchers have seen an
increase in calorie burn after vegan meals. Just be sure your
veggie-derived meals are made from whole, nutrient-rich foods, not
processed “junk food” like vegan versions of hot dogs, cookies, and
donuts.
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Interesting findings from that study. I wonder if my vegetarian diet is what helps me avoid crazy weight gain from all the cakes and chocolate I love so much?!
ReplyDeleteTeach me your tricks, I love my chocolate and cakes and have been a veggie for 20+ years but it doesn't help me avoid weight gain :)
ReplyDelete