What are the benefits of living life as a vegetarian? According to a study from 2012, the mortality rate of vegetarians was 9% lower than non-vegetarians with the added benefit of lower risks for certain diseases including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. However, vegetarianism is not an end-all cure diet to gain these benefits. Switching to vegetarianism is only a single part of the equation. Replacing your meats with tofu and veggies can have its impact on your body, but it won’t make that much of a difference health wise if you’re only eating potatoes! Sure, they aren’t meat, but are French fries good for you? Probably not.
The problem with starting vegetarianism is that it could lead to several other health conditions if you are eliminating meats and meat products but not replacing them with other foods that would provide the necessary nutrition that your body requires. If you are considering switching over to vegetarianism, make sure that you choose the correct foods groups such as grains, leafy greens, corn, and fresh fruits to gain the needed nutrition. Be wary of processed foods that can be considered vegetarian such as ramen noodles, instant oatmeal, and of course French fries!
Never forget that a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about what foods you are putting into your body, but what your body is doing with the food’s energy. Go for runs, go bike riding, longboarding, or just take a long stroll around the neighborhood with your dog. Whatever you do, be intentional about it, and don’t forget the number one rule; drink plenty of water!
Citation
Miller, Tia. “Rookie Vegetarianism and the Junk Food Trap.” CNN, Cable News Network, 21 Aug. 2018, www.cnn.com/2018/08/21/health/unhealthy-vegetarianism-food/index.html.
