ecoming a vegetarian will make you healthier and give you more energy.
Many people think it is difficult to adpot a vegetarain lifestyle but there are a huge amount of choices open to you and this article will show you how to in simple steps.
Once having made the decision to become a vegetarian, you must decide which kind you are. There are for main varieties:
* Lacto vegetarianism : Lacto vegetarians do not eat meat or eggs but do eat dairy products. Most vegetarians in India and other Hindu areas, as well as those in the classical
Mediterranean lands, such as Pythagoreans, are or were lacto vegetarian.
* Lacto-ovo vegetarianism : Lacto-ovo vegetarians do not eat meat but do eat dairy products and eggs. This is currently the most common variety in the Western world.
* Ovo-vegetarianism : Ovo vegetarians do not eat meat or dairy products but do eat eggs.
* Veganism : Those who avoid eating any animal products, including eggs, milk, cheese, and sometimes honey, are known specifically as dietary vegans.
Basic rules of being vegetarian
Whichever of the above systems you follow, there are some basic rules to follow.
You must remember that you have been eating meat and meat products most of your life.
To stop instantly is possible, but better if you ease off meat slowly, and then stop altogether. Do not worry about getting enough protein.
Generally we all eat too much protein, and you can get all you need (see below) by a wide variety of alternatives.
You must eat smaller meals and more often when you become a vegetarian and should add as much fruit as is possible to your daily diet.
Keeping cholesterol down
Do not over-indulge in eggs and cheese.
Remember, the same protein is available in soy products, lentils (pulses), and nuts. Eating too many eggs to replace meat can have negative consequences of raising the cholesterol and blood pressure.
Eating too much cheese can also add very many calories to your diet that you may not need.
let people know you are a vegitarian
Inform your friends or hosts (should you be a guest somewhere) of your choice of diets, and the reason for it.
This attitude is generally appreciated by all, and will avoid unpleasant surprises at diner tables.
Airlines all have alternative menus for vegetarians, and informing them before your flight insures a tasty meal in conformation to your dietary choice.
Starting Out
Most new vegetarians find salads with a wide variety of vegetables a good start.
Also visiting Indian, Kosher, and Ethnic (especially Lebanese or Greek) restaurants is very helpful. All will have plenty of non-meat dishes that are both tasty and wholesome.
Vegetarianism is easy with today's food choices
The modern international supermarket will have some soy products, which include the soy meat substitutes, tofu, and edamame.
As fish is excluded from the diet, you can get your Omega 3 from some eggs where the chickens were specially fed grains, or by eating walnut and pumpkin seeds, and using Canola oil.
Search the supermarket for meat alternatives, and you will be sure to find an ample supply.
Do not underestimate the value of brown rice. If cooked well, and using sesame oil, it is a magic replacement for meat in your diet.
Never feel hungry as a vegetarian
You will feel full and satisfied, you will receive many vitamins and minerals as well as protein, and reap the health benefits of this wonderful food.
Maintaining Your Diet & Getting healthy
As you watch your weight slowly drop to its ideal, and your energy levels rise, you will understand how beneficial the change of becoming a vegitarian has been for you.
You will notice it most in the morning, when you awaken fresh from sleep, and your body feeling light and refreshed.
Start your day with a large breakfast of fruits, cereals, and if your diet allows, milk products. Coffee and tea is your personal choice, but its best to keep coffee limited to the mornings.
Drinking tea during the day is always permitted, but choose green tea if a choice is possible.
Eating smaller and more frequent meals, interspersed with fruit is recommended. Make sure to include Greek olive oil (extra-virgin and cold pressed if available) as it is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
Variety the key to overall health
Some vegetarians find taking dietary supplements helpful and a good multi-vitamin should give you any element you may be missing by a lack of variety in foods.
It is good to remember that the Japanese diet (which is essentially vegetarian in nature) has over 100 varieties of food a week, while the typical Western diet has less than 30. Be creative, and choose more variety in your food.
Eating for a longer healthier life
You can always consult a professional dietician. They will be able to correct any misconceptions or errors in your eating habits or choices.
It is also recommended to inform you doctor of your choice and get their advice as well on such a major change in life-style.
However, 9 times out of 10 they will congratulate you and give you encouragement in becoming a vegetarian and becoming fitter healthier as result.
