1. Vegetarian = Healthy?
Many individuals think that "vegetarian" is synonymous with healthy eating. The truth is that vegetarian diets vary widely. It's possible to eat corn chips, candy bars and soda and still be considered vegetarian. It's also possible to eat mostly salads, rice and beans, and pasta as a vegetarian. Vegetarians avoid meat, including fish, but may still eat eggs and dairy products. Many vegetarians also try to avoid cheese cultured using rennet, part of the intestinal lining of cows.
2. Different Strokes for Different Folks
The reasons people choose vegetarianism vary. Some individuals are mainly concerned with animal rights, while other individuals mostly are seeking the numerous health benefits such as lower cholesterol and lower risk of heart disease. No matter what reason an individual has for choosing a vegetarian diet, the health benefits are still the same. As long as vegetarians limit their dairy consumption, they'll most likely experience lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Even individuals who enjoy steak will still experience health benefits by consuming more vegetarian meals.
3. Don't Rely on Prepackaged Foods
Many new vegetarians turn to commercially-prepared foods because of both convenience and lack of knowledge about how to prepare vegetarian meals. Prepackaged foods are a helpful addition to any vegetarian kitchen, but they can also contain a lot of preservatives and additives. Limit your consumption of prepackaged foods. Try to rework favorite recipes using vegetarian substitutes. Use beans in place of meat in chili or soup recipes. Textured vegetable protein is a great meat substitute as well.
4. More Variety Than Expected
Many myths exist about the vegetarian diet. Many non-vegetarians assume that food choices are extremely limited if an individual doesn't eat meat. Vegetarians are more likely to eat a wider variety of foods to compensate for eliminating one food group. Omnivores aren't likely to know what daikon, burdock root or kale are, much less how they taste. Eating a plant-based diet opens up an entire range of produce options that non-vegetarians typically don't realize exist. Contrary to the myths, most vegetarians eat a much larger variety of foods than pasta and veggie burgers.
5. Preparation is Key
Being a vegetarian doesn't mean you'll be at a social disadvantage. Vegetarianism is on the rise, particularly among college students and young adults. Nearly all restaurants offer vegetarian options or can customize an entree to meet your dietary restrictions. Call ahead if time permits before dining out. If all else fails, order a garden salad.
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