World Vegetarian Day 2020: Consuming a vegetarian diet is beneficial for your heart as per studies
Highlights
- Vegetarian diet focuses on consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Add enough protein to your vegetarian diet
- Eat a well balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight
World Vegetarian Day is observed on October 1 each year. This day tries to create awareness about the benefits of a vegetarian diet which is loaded with fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods that come from plants. These days many try vegetarian and plant-based diets as these offer a wide variety of health benefits including weight loss. Several studies suggest that following a vegetarian diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, bad cholesterol and certain cancers. But there are several myths about a vegetarian diet. This diet plan has its pros and cons. As World Vegetarian Day 2020 is around the corner, here's a list of top myths about vegetarian diet you should stop believing.
World Vegetarian Day 2020: Myths about vegetarian diet
1. Do not contain enough protein
It is a myth that vegetarian diets do not contain enough protein. There are several vegetarian foods loaded with protein but many fail to know these sources. Some of the best sources of protein that can be a part of your vegetarian diet are tofu, cottage cheese, lentils, chickpeas, quinoa, soy, nut and seeds.
World Vegetarian Day 2020: Legumes are loaded with plant-based protein
Photo Credit: iStock
2. Vegetarian diet is boring
According to the National Health Portal, vegetarians enjoy food as much as anyone else. You just need to experiment with different food items and preparations to make the food tasty and nutritious when cooked imaginatively. A well planned vegetarian meal can add taste as well as variety to savour your taste buds.
Also read: Vegetarians, Here Are Some Simple Ways To Add More Protein To Your Diet
3. This diet is loaded with carbs
Your vegetarian diet can be low-carb too. Some low-carb vegetarian foods are dairy, berries, nuts, seeds, legumes, chia seeds, vegetables like tomatoes, onions, eggplant, bell pepper and broccoli. You can seek expert help to ensure a balance of all nutrients that fit into your diet.
World Vegetarian Day 2020: Several vegetables contain a very few carbs
Photo Credit: iStock
4. Affects your exercise performance
Fitness freaks often believe that following a vegetarian diet can lead to weakness and will not help in muscle growth. But adding enough nutrients can help you complete your workout efficiently. There are enough sources of protein you can add to your diet.
Also read: Protein-Rich Foods: Vegetarians, Here Are Interesting Ways To Add More Protein To Your Diet
5. Every vegetarian food is healthy
If you think that every food labelled with vegetarian mark is healthy, then you might be wrong. Several vegetarian foods in the market are highly processed and loaded with added sugar and salt. It is generally advised to consume fresh foods with balanced nutrition.
Also read: Vegetarians, Here Are 7 Protein-Rich Foods You Must Have For Quick Weight Loss
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.