World Vegetarian Day: The Benefits of Going Vegetarian
October 1st is World Vegetarian Day, and it is the perfect opportunity try a variety of delicious plant-based meals, as well as learn more about what it takes to be a vegetarian and the benefits that this diet can provide.
A lot of research has been coming out recently regarding the health benefits of a plant-based diet, as well as the dangers of following a traditional meat and dairy based diet. So even just cutting back on your meat and dairy consumption will make a positive difference. However, with so many people going vegetarian all over the world today, there are so many options at the grocery store that will ensure you get the nutrition and flavors that you desire, so you won’t be missing out on anything at all.
Keep reading to learn a few of the main benefits of going vegetarian.
Reduce Your Risk of a Variety of Diseases
When you eat a hearty and healthy plant-based diet, you will be giving your body exactly what it needs to thrive, without all of the detrimental fat and cholesterol that comes from meat and dairy. In addition to being inflammatory, meat and dairy products also increase your risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, cholesterol, stroke, kidney stones, some cancers, cataracts, diabetes, and more. So this is definitely one of the biggest benefits of going vegetarian.
Make It Easier to Maintain a Healthy Weight
Another benefit to going vegetarian is the fact that it is easier to lose weight, as well as maintain a healthy weight. A plant-based diet that is high in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while also being low in fat, will help your body slim down gradually and naturally. Once you slim down, it will also be easier to maintain your weight.
You’re Doing It for More Than Just Yourself
Finally, when you go on a vegetarian diet, you won’t just be benefitting your own health, you’ll also be benefitting animals and the environment. The production of meat and dairy products wreaks havoc on the planet. Natural wild habitats have to be cut down for cattle ranches, factory farms pollute land, water, and air, and animals go through horrific conditions from birth to slaughter. Experts have also argued that meat based diets are contributing to climate change.
As you can see, there are many benefits of going vegetarian, so if you have been thinking about giving it a go, don’t hesitate.
