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If this fresh new year sensation has got you pondering joining the crowd and switching your diet to include more fresh produce and plant-based protein, I'm here to offer some well-timed guidance on what can feel like the challenging task of becoming a fully-fledged vegetarian.
The omn Statistical employees is six years away from reaching our orbits.
and the advantageous effects on my digestive system as well as my energy levels.
has linked plant-based diets to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, some cancers, and obesity. However, switching to a vegetarian diet overnight is far simpler to suggest than it is to accomplish.
enjoyable.
So, without further ado, here are the eight things I wish I’d known before turning vegetarian, supported by registered nutritionists.
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9. "It can be challenging socially, but there are plenty of vegetarian options available in restaurants and shops
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Or fish, choosing a more filling option such as chickpeas, lentils or tofu is a better choice for keeping you full and satisfied.
She suggests that a well-planned vegetarian diet that includes a range of plant-based protein sources throughout the day, such as beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, seeds, and whole grains generally provides all the essential amino acids you need. 'In general, what's more important for vegetarians is to focus on varying their diet and meeting their protein needs through a variety of plant-based sources rather than following a specific combination of foods with each meal,' says Marogy.
RELATED: How to Ensure You Get Enough Protein on a Meat-Free Diet
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Buying alternatives to meat can cost as much as £3 per portion, so it may actually add to the cost rather than reducing it when you don't eat meat. Instead of opting for expensive fake meat options, consider going for pulses like black beans and chickpeas where possible.
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to make quite sure you're obtaining everything you need.
By taking supplements. Mr Marogy says that iron should not be taken long-term unless you have a known deficiency. Therefore, before supplementing with iron, it's best to ask your GP for a blood test to check if you need to take it first.
'The product, which combines magnesium and calcium to support musculoskeletal health, is also worth considering,' says Marogy.
RELATED: What are the essential supplements that vegetarians should consider having in their daily routine?
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Absolutely not. So why would you do the same with a few sliced courgettes? To get the most out of your food while keeping to a vegetarian diet, you need to give vegetables, pulses and grains the same care you’d give your meat or fish. A sprinkle of salt and pepper does wonders, but using seasonings like harissa paste, spices like smoked paprika and oregano, or fresh herbs and lemon is a sure way to make sure your meat-free meals taste delicious.
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A sudden introduction to lentils and beans can result in uncomfortable gut symptoms. However, introducing them into your diet can be likened to planting seeds in a garden. This calls for gradual and steady progress, allowing the gut to adapt just like a gardener carefully tends to each young plant.
Fuelling the fibre obsession
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Just as authentic-tasting as the real thing to entire tasting menus at your fingertips. If you’re worried, you can always have a look at the menu beforehand, especially if you know the restaurant is quite heavy on meat.
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For one-pot wonder chefs, my top two suggestions.
8. You're permitted to proceed with caution.
Going cold turkey, so to speak, isn't the best approach for everyone. If your current diet consists almost entirely of meat and two vegetables, you might want to consider starting by reducing your intake of one particular type of meat, such as red meat. Once you've adjusted to life without steak, you could try adopting a pescatarian diet or simply sticking to lean meats like chicken. Proceeding gradually should allow you to stick to your new habit for a longer period.
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If you're feeling daunted by adopting a new plant-based diet, it's essential to remember that going vegetarian doesn't have to be a long-term commitment. If you try it out and find you're unhappy with how you feel, or that you're no longer enjoying your favourite foods, you don't have to stick with it. Similarly, if you're planning to travel to a country where meat-free options aren't readily available, or you're eager to try a specific type of cured meat on your holiday to Spain, don't be too hard on yourself if you decide to take a temporary break from being vegetarian.
Ultimately, if transitioning to a vegetarian diet isn't making you feel your absolute best, don't worry - take care of yourself and eat what you know makes you feel fantastic.
Read next:
- "Unlocking the Secrets of the Glucose Goddess": 5 Time-Tested Fixes to Balance Your Blood Sugar
- Demi Moore on veganism, sobriety, and thriving on a raw diet
- I gave Green Chef a go for a month, and I found my energy levels increased significantly
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