(SDC) Vegetarian Diet Lesson

Vegetarian Diet Lesson 

Being a vegetarian has become quite trendy. Celebrities and musicians have made it a popular lifestyle. Reasons vary for those who commit to a vegetarian diet and lifestyle. Reducing the risk of heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes are some of the health benefits of the vegetarian diet. Others feel that animals are treated unfairly and, therefore, refuse to consume animal products or byproducts. Whatever the reason, it can be a very healthy choice.

 

Types of Vegetarians

Pescatarian: Pescatarians eat fish as the only animal product in their diets.

Flexitarian: This new term reflects that this type of vegetarian eats a mostly vegetarian diet with the occasional meat item.

Lacto-Vegetarian: This vegetarian does not eat eggs or other meat, but may eat dairy products.

Ovo-Vegetarian: This type of vegetarian does not eat meat or diary products, but may eat eggs.

Vegan: The Vegan is the true vegetarian; these individuals do not eat any animal or animal by-products.

 

What do Vegetarians Eat?

Many vegetarians find ways to alter recipes while substituting the main meat based ingredients. Many will use beans and lentils, exchange meat for protein packed carbohydrates like quinoa and barley. Tofu is also on the menu at many places. Tofu is made of pressed soybeans and is a good, nutritionally sound product. It can be mixed with other items to take on the taste of the dish. That is why many restaurants use it in stir-fry dishes and soups. Tempah is a common choice as well. It is also made from soybeans and can be pressed into a cake form and fried or baked. Vegetable Protein is found in many variations of vegetarian burgers. It is made from soy flour. And lastly, another meat substitute is Seitan. This is made from wheat. It is the by-product called wheat gluten.

 

Health Benefits of Being a Vegetarian

1. Lower Risk of Heart Disease: Plants contain sterols which are great for the heart. They are also lower in cholesterol and saturated fat which tend to clog arteries.
2. Plant Consumption Helps Lower Blood Pressure: Plants are naturally low in salt. They also contain potassium which helps to aid in the balance of blood pressure.
3. Helps Control Diabetes: Plants are higher in fiber and tend to make people feel full longer. Vegetables are also lower in sugar than processed food.
4. Helps Prevent Certain Types of Cancer: Since vegetables and fruits are high in fiber, this diet keeps the digestive system running smoothly. Plants also contain phyto-chemical and plant sterols that are great antioxidants.
5. Reduce the Amount of Toxins Ingested: Meat products are high in toxins. Organic vegetables are usually free of pesticides and chemicals.
6. Eases Digestive Issues: Fruits and vegetables put less stress on the digestive system.

 

Self-Assessment

 

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