Plant-based dieting might just be one of the newest trends to rock mainstream culture.
Sustainability, weight loss, and healthier eating are some of the many reasons that close to 40% of households in the United States have made the shift towards plant-based eating.
But, like any trend, there are an array of misconceptions.
Whether you are considering changing your eating habits, or are just plain curious, let us debunk a few myths about plant-based eating.
1. All plant-based diets are the same.
There is more than one approach to plant-based eating. For example, semi-vegetarians, also known as flexitarians, mostly eat foods from plant sources, but will occasionally incorporate dairy and meat products. Vegetarians, on the other hand, eat foods from plant sources and exclude products that contain animal flesh. Those on a lacto-ovo diet are vegetarian but still consume dairy, while vegans exclude all dairy and meat products. Whatever your dieting preference might be, there are multiple options.
2. Plant-based diets are boring.
The key to a filling, non-restrictive plant-based diet: open-mindedness. You can replace meat with tofu, mushrooms, jackfruit, and much more. Brands like Gardein and Beyond also offer meat alternatives that taste similar to the real thing; just keep in mind that, like any processed food, “meatless meats” should be eaten in moderation. It might take a little experimentation to find your preferences, but you can definitely eat much more than salad and kale.
3. Plant-based diets are expensive.
If you only ever eat meat and dairy alternatives, then yes, your pockets might start to hurt. However, diets that contain unprocessed plant proteins such as nuts, beans, and oats tend to be much cheaper than diets that heavily incorporate meat. If you only indulge in fishless filets and dairy-free ice cream on occasion, you can keep your spending to a minimum.
4. It is hard to get enough protein and other nutrients.
Plants are the most nutrient-rich foods we can eat. Vegetables like kale contain iron, calcium, and zinc, while fruits like pineapples contain loads of Vitamin C. Additionally, there are plenty of vegetables packed with protein. It would certainly be beneficial to supplement with vitamins such as D and 12, but that is beneficial with any diet.
With a little research, experimentation, and an open mind, you can certainly find a plant-based diet that works for you. So, if you were looking for a sign to try one out, here it is.