With vegan and vegetarian diets becoming popular around the world, there is no surprise that many people have included these strict lifestyle changes to their list of New Year’s resolutions. The real question here is, how well are people keeping up with their diets? Sure, you might slip up and eat a cupcake or piece of chicken within the first couple of weeks, but the long-term results of a diet change are worth it. There are many health and environmental benefits that come along with living a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle. Her Campus at Hampton U is here to keep you encouraged and give some tips on how to keep up with your new lifestyle change! As you move forward in this transition and throw away past eating habits, remember the reason you started and how it can have a long-lasting effect on your physical health. For those who are interested in changing their diets, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to know before making the switch.
The Vegan Diet
Most people become vegan for more ethical and environmental reasons. Not only does this diet exclude eating animal products such as dairy and meat, it also excludes the wearing of animal products. Vegans are big supporters of prohibiting animal cruelty which decreases the number of consumed ingredients that derive from animals.
5 Key Health Benefits:
· Richer in Nutrients such as potassium and magnesium
· Lose Excess Weight
· Lower Blood Sugar Levels
· Protect against cancer
· Lower Risk of heart disease
The Vegetarian Diet
In short, a vegetarian is simply someone who doesn’t eat meat. Vegetarians still consume eggs and dairy but only in small, moderate amounts because this diet is focused on eating a variety of plants. It is important to eat an assortment of fruits and veggies as plants are generally low in calories and high in minerals and carbohydrates.
5 Tips for Transitioning Vegetarians:
· Cut out red meat, then pork, and gradually work your way to eating no meat
· Find good recipes! (Pinterest is your best friend for this)
· Make a list of fruits and veggies that you love
· Instead of junk food, try alternatives like nuts and chips and salsa
· Discover new restaurants that cater to your diet
Having a friend or partner to hold you accountable as you make this lifestyle change makes it a little bit easier. Try having Meatless Mondays where you and your friends can try new recipes every week! We hope this guide to clean living inspires you to keep the resolutions you made of going vegan or vegetarian. There are many options to enjoy this lifestyle change so make sure that you do your research! Happy eating!
For more information, check out any of these great sites below:
https://zenhabits.net/how-to-become-a-vegetarian-the-easy-way/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegan-diet-benefits#section5
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegan-diet-guide#section6