People believe that a vegetarian diet lacks protein and other essential amino acids. Also, animal-based sources like meat and eggs provide the required amount of protein to the body. However, this is not true. Consuming a vegetarian diet in the right way can give you protein and other minerals.
Protein is the building block of the body and is needed for building muscles, healthy skin, and losing weight. Protein is made up of 20 types of amino acids. But, our body could make only 11 types of amino acids. The remaining ones should be consumed from foods that are high in protein.
According to a nutritionist, Pooja Makhija,
"The body actually creates a protein basket, and the amino acids from everything that you eat get added to this basket. So, if you've eaten beans like rajma or black-eyed beans, or even paneer or legumes during the day, and rice by the night, all the amino acids will still be available to your body."
She added,
"I recommend that you should get protein from a variety of different food sources throughout the day. This facilitates diversity in your diet, without the worry of pairing plant-based protein and rice together."
If you are a vegetarian, consuming veg foods like dairy products, milk, and legumes could give you better health results. Also, foods rich in protein keep you full for longer and aids in weight loss. Vegetarian foods are tastier and healthier and offer incredible health benefits.
People follow a vegetarian diet for several reasons. It is good for heart health, decreases asthma symptoms, prevents diabetes, reduces cancer risk. Also, it offers nutritional benefits and promotes better health. Calcium builds and maintains strong teeth. Green vegetables are excellent sources of protein when consumed in sufficient quantities.
Furthermore, plant sources like lentils, seeds, and whole grains give strong bones and muscles. It lowers the intake of saturated fats and cholesterol levels. When you are consuming vegetarian foods, then you are also contributing to the environment.
A vegetarian diet is healthy but might lack certain nutrients if you do not follow the right diet plan. Therefore, ensure that you eat foods that are rich in iron, calcium, and Vitamins. Vegetarian foods can meet nutritional demands if eaten properly.
If you are planning to turn into a vegetarian, then the best way is by gradually decreasing the meat in your diet and increasing fruits and vegetables.
Vegetarian is not just a type of diet, but more of a lifestyle. It’s a healthier choice you make for the people, for the animals, and for a better planet