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What is the Flexitarian Diet?
If you are looking to feature more plant-based foods to your diet but don’t need to completely cut out meat, going flexitarian could also be the proper diet for you. As the name suggests this diet is more flexible than eating fully vegetarian or vegan. The flexitarian diet allows animal protein in moderation. This makes it an easier and more realistic approach to eating.
The goal of this diet is to limit calories by mainly eating veggies, fruit, and whole grains. Studies show that flexitarians have a lower BMI, than people who regularly eat more meat. So, what’s the flex part in the flexitarian diet? It’s actually really simple. For the most part you will be eating vegetarian and vegan, but if you have a random craving to add some meat or fish to your meals just go ahead!
You are not cheating on your diet. As long as you control your portions and limit the actual cheating you are on the right track. There are no specific rules in the flexitarian diet but it is based on the following principles Eat mostly fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Focus on protein from plants instead of animals. Incorporate meat and animal products in moderation. Eat clean, so no processed foods. Limit refined sugar intake. The lack of strict rules makes it an appealing option for people who are looking to cut back on animal products. Studies on a vegetarian and vegan diet show the importance of eating mostly, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and wholegrains, in order to obtain health benefits from this diet.
If you continue eating refined foods and lots of added sugar, your diet will not lead to the health benefits. Now, let’s take a look at the possible health benefits of the flexitarian diet.
Number ONE, weight loss – flexitarian diet
Flexitarians limit high-calorie processed foods. Plant-based foods are also naturally lower in calories. This will be good for your waistline.
Number TWO, heart disease
Healthy fats and fiber are good for heart health. If you follow the flexitarian principles you will consume more of both. The antioxidants and whole foods may reduce blood pressure and increase good cholesterol.
Number THREE, cancer
The nutrients and antioxidants in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, may help prevent cancer. Research suggests that vegetarian diets are related to a lower overall risk of all cancers. Incorporating more vegetarian foods by eating flexitarian, may reduce your cancer risk. Now we know the possible health benefits of eating a flexitarian diet, you’re probably curious which foods you should eat when going flexitarian?
These are the foods to include: Include all the vegetables and fruits you’ll find. Whole grains like quinoa and oats. Plant-based proteins like soy tofu and legumes. Nuts and seeds like almonds, chia seeds, and walnuts. Healthy fats such as avocado and peanut butter. All herbs and spices for seasoning such as ginger basil and thyme.
To drink: choose plant-based milk water tea and coffee. When you incorporate animal products choose organic or free-range when possible. Dairy, eggs, poultry, fish, shellfish and meat are all allowed carefully . To recap this content: the flexitarian diets a semi-vegetarian diet focused on plant-based foods and animal products immoderation. Eating according to the flexitarian principles may help you lose weight and reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
