Why Going Vegetarian or Vegan Could Help You Shed Pounds

Vegetarianism and veganism are often choices made for ethical, economical or environmental reasons. When I decided to eat a vegetarian diet, weight loss was the last thing on my mind.

Countless studies have been conducted on the health benefits of eating a plant-based diet. Emphasizing veggies, fruits, nuts and grains can lower the risk factors for heart disease and diabetes in many people. But what about weight loss?

A Harvard University study recently looked at vegetarian diets (which include dairy products in most cases) and vegan diets (which restrict any products which come from an animal in most cases). Study participants were put on either a vegetarian or vegan eating regime over a few months time.

The results showed that the participants on the vegetarian diet lost an average of 4.4 pounds and the participants on the vegan diet shed around 5.5 pounds with no change in exercise level.

It should be noted that eliminating meat or animal products is one dietary change, but it doesn’t guarantee a healthier diet. Vegetarians and vegans can still eat sugary, transfat-loaded processed foods which can lead to inflammation and weight gain.

Making a choice to eat better involves a number of factors for sustainable weight loss. If you are interested in cutting out meat to shed pounds, you must look at your diet as a whole and couple-in proper nutrition and exercise for the best results.

What are your thoughts on vegetarian and vegan diets? Share them with us!

Source: NPR

 

1. Prev:31 Nutritious Breakfast Recipes To Promote Month-Long Weight Loss
2. Next:The Simple Way to Lose Weight (In the Shower)!