With more people choosing to eat a meat free diet than ever before, what are the benefits and disadvantages of being either a vegetarian or a meat eater? Anyone thinking about making the change from one to the other, should ensure they consume the relevant nutrients to keep their system healthy and avoid deficiencies.
Getting the right amount of protein is a common concern of anyone going meat free. It is common knowledge that meat is protein rich. Protein is vital in the bodies healing process and to produce enzymes, hormones and must be consumed to maintain bone, cartilage and produce skin and blood. Lack of protein can lead to skin, hair and nail issues such as alopecia or even make your bones more prone to fractures. That said, here are many protein-rich foods which vegetarians can use to replace meat. In fact, many meat replacements have added protein to help these people meet their daily requirements.
Finding alternatives to meat
Pulses, soya beans, quinoa, nuts, seeds and eggs are jam packed with protein and are often used in meat free cooking. Dairy foods are another way to meet your protein needs, but of course, there are many who need to avoid dairy, if they are choosing to eat vegan or have an intolerance to lactose or dairy.
Eating a diet which includes meat may be great for protein levels, but it can be rich in saturated fats. Vegetarians typically eat more fruit and veg then someone who includes meat in their diet, but it doesn’t necessarily mean all vegetarian diets are eating healthier. Fried foods, cheeses, bread and dressings can be full of fats and high calories, so cutting out meat alone is not necessarily going to give you the health kick you may be looking for.
In fact, keeping meat in your diet in moderation, as with any foods, can be hugely beneficial. Just watch out for anything fried, or with a high fat content to keep your system as healthy as possible.
