We know that eating plant-based is not for everyone, and for many it's not even a strict rule.
But have you ever wondered why so many people are stoked about being vegetarian?
Here we examine some of the reasons why plant-based diets are exploding in popularity, and some of the ways vegetables can benefit you.
Chances are, you have become increasingly aware of climate change in recent years. You may be wondering what you can do. Adopting a partially vegetarian diet is one small step that can make a big difference.
So how does vegetarianism help the environment?
It may not be realistic to expect the whole world to go veg.
But what if each of us made small changes, found new ways to enjoy our veggies, and ate one less meat meal a week?
By reducing our animal product intake, we can reduce carbon emissions, use our land wisely, and save resources that are becoming increasingly scarce.
Another great reason for adopting a partial plant-based diet is health.
Every body has different needs, and health can look different for everyone.
it is generally considered a good idea to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day, and a vegetarian diet can help with that.
For many, vegetarianism promotes
bodily wellness and mental health!
You might be thinking, these are solid reasons to eat more plant-based foods, but what If I don't know how to cook vegetarian food?
Have no fear, we've got you covered.
Experimenting with vegetarian foods can change your life if you're open to it.
When I was in my early 20s, I tried Indian food for the first time, which opened up a whole new world of flavors and textures. Global cuisines often do vegetarian and vegan really well!
Some of my favorites are Korean (mm hello veggie bibimbap), Mexican/Latin American (I'm Costa Rican and black beans are a delicious daily staple for me), Thai, and Ethiopian. Even sushi can be made veggie!
There are other ways to get exposed to great vegetarian food without eating out.
For example, Food Not Bombs (foodnotbombs.net) is a global network of collectives that share vegetarian and vegan food for free.
I learned to grow, prepare, and cook a lot of veggie foods while volunteering for WWOOF (WorldWide Opportunities on Organic Farms). It was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend for all young people interested in learning more about where their food comes from. It also allowed me to skip winter for a few years by moving to Hawaii.
Wanna get started on your own?
Search #vegetarianrecipes on tiktok
or
check out these cookbooks:
More recipe resources:
The main takeaway:
Plant-based food can be delicious and satisfying.
Eating less meat can have positive benefits for the health of our planet and the health of our bodies.
I love plant-based food and it makes up most of my diet.
Do I sometimes eat animal products? Yes, when it feels right.
Over time I have found the balance that works for me.
Life is not black or white.
Diet doesn't have to be either.
Thanks for reading!
Wishing you happy and healthy eating.
Works Cited
Emamzadeh, A. (2019, April 15). Does Eating Fruits and Veggies Mean Better Mental Health? | Psychology Today. Psychology Today; Psychology Today.
Heller, M., et. al. (2020). Implications of Future US Diet Scenarios on Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
Hunnes, D. (n.d.). The Case for Plant Based | UCLA Sustainability. UCLA Sustainability. Retrieved March 14, 2021, from
Ma, Q. (2021, February 26). Why Do Some People Think Everyone Should Be a Vegetarian? Portland Community College, Writing 122.
Petter, O. (2020, September 24). Veganism is “Single Biggest Way” to Reduce Our Environmental Impact, Study Finds. Independent; Independent.