Vegetarian
diets have been around for decades. But recently they’ve become quite
popular. Vegetarianism is not only about the food we eat; it’s really
about what kind of lifestyle we live. There are many different types of
vegetarian diets. And although each type may work well for some people,
others find them difficult to stick with. If you consider yourself a
vegetarian, then you probably want to know “what is the best vegetarian
diet for weight loss?” Here are some of the best ways to lose weight
while eating a vegetarian diet.
1. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
People who love veggies tend to do great at losing weight. A diet rich in fruit and veg is low in calories, high in fiber and protein. You’ll feel satisfied after consuming this meal. In fact, research shows that vegetarians consume fewer calories than carnivores!
2. Don’t skip breakfast.
Breakfast helps set the tone for your day. It should be something substantial like a bowl of oatmeal or a piece of toast with peanut butter. Skipping breakfast makes you ravenous later in the day and you might end up overeating.
3. Have a salad.
Salads are full of nutritious, filling ingredients like beans, legumes and whole grains. Plus, they’re loaded with fiber and antioxidants.
4. Try tofu.
Tofu is a good option if you don’t enjoy meat. Not only does tofu provide plenty of protein, it tastes delicious and is packed with vitamins and minerals. Tofu contains iron, zinc and vitamin B12.
5. Make sure you drink enough water.
Drinking 8 glasses of water a day keeps the body hydrated and flushes out toxins. Water also helps fill us up without adding extra calories.
Making the Case for a Vegetarian Lifestyle
6. Be mindful of portion sizes.
Portion control is key. Eating too much can cause weight gain, especially if you’re not physically active. Also, avoid foods that are high in fat. These foods will add unnecessary calories to your diet and make it harder to lose weight.
7. Add some exercise.
Exercise is a simple way to burn off excess calories. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity five days a week.
8. Keep a diary.
Write down everything you eat. Then compare it to the USDA’s MyPlate guide to help you understand how your meals fit into a healthy diet.
9. Cook meals from scratch.
Cooking your own meals gives you complete control over what goes into your body. Instead of relying on frozen dinners, try making fresh soups, stews, stir fries or even pizza from scratch. Simply add less oil, cheese, salt and pepper, and pack in more veggies.
10. Consider supplements.
Some vegetarians choose to take a multivitamin supplement to ensure they get their daily recommended intake of certain vitamins and minerals.
11. Enjoy the journey.
Remember that no matter which way you go, you'll still be able to keep a healthy diet and maintain a positive attitude towards your progress.