A Few Tips for Starting a Vegan Diet
Popularity of the vegan lifestyle is skyrocketing as more
and more Americans are realizing its benefits in achieving weight loss and skin
improvement goals. A healthy vegan diet is more than simply abstaining from the
use of animal products in your diet. Among other things, it includes selecting
healthier alternatives, fortifying your diet with essential vitamins and
supplements and incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, beans, whole
grains and nuts into a diet routine.
Here are a few tips for those considering a vegan diet
and looking for a vegan meal plan that can help achieve individual health goals:
1. Include Vegetables
Contrary to what is popular belief, it is not necessary
to have meat for a balanced and tasty meal. Vegetable-based meals are not only
delicious, but are also rich in vitamins (like A and K) and minerals (like
potassium). Vegetable-heavy meals will naturally keep your calories in check
and tend to be higher in fiber.
2. Monitor Nutrients
It is vital for a vegan to eat balanced meals to ensure
proper intake of all essential nutrients. Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, peanuts
and beans) tofu and tofu are excellent sources of protein. For vitamins
A, C and K, leafy greens (spinach, kale and broccoli) are the best
option. Red tomatoes are a great way to get lycopene—good for the heart—and blueberries
are rich in brain-boosting anthocyanins. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source
of vitamin A and contribute to healthier eyes.
3. Choose Whole Grains
Incorporating whole grains (brown rice and quinoa)
rather than refined grains (white pasta and white bread) is important for a
vegan’s diet. Whole grains add Vitamin B and iron, which are generally
absent in refined grains. Whole grains also contain fiber, which fills the
stomach and satisfies hunger earlier and longer and is also beneficial in
shedding weight.
4. Avoid Processed Food
Processed foods often contain saturated fat so it is
better to stick to whole, natural and more nutritious foods, such as
nuts, carrots and dried fruit. It is important to keep in mind that
food is not guaranteed to be healthy simply because it is vegan.
5. Remember Vitamin D
White milk, yogurt and canned fish are great, non-vegan
sources of vitamin D, vegans can also find this essential vitamin in orange
juice and non-diary almond milk. Different varieties of mushrooms are also solid
sources of vitamin D.
6. Discover Fish-Free Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of
the brain and eyes and can actually be found in plants like walnuts, soy,
flaxseed and even algae—not only in fish. An additional benefit is that
fish-free omega-3 will not cause “fish burp,” a common complaint of fish-based
supplements.
7. Explore Plant-Based Proteins
Similar to processed vegan foods, animal-based proteins
such as cheese and meat tend to be high in unhealthy saturated fat. Plant-based
proteins pack a real punch, though, and the options are seemingly endless—chia
seed, chickpeas, beans, peas and also nuts (walnuts, cashews, almonds and many
more). You can also look for trusted sources that deliver 100% organic vegan
meal which is rich in protein and other vital nutrients.
To guarantee the most delicious and nutritious vegan
options available, search online for trusted sources of vegan meal
delivery. 22 Days Nutrition is the top
online supplier of savory plant-based meals, each rich in protein and other
vital nutrients and made only with organic, gluten-free, soy-free and non-GMO
ingredients. 22 Days is committed to its motto, “Fresh Never Frozen.” As its
name suggests, the company offers a 22 Days Challenge to help those who are new
to the vegan lifestyle get on the right track, by avoiding animal-based foods
and reaping the benefits of plant-based living.
About 22 Days Nutrition:
22 Days Nutrition is widely known and respected as an
industry-leader in the development of delicious vegan meals, vegan
protein powder and vegan protein bars. 22
Days only sells options that are organic, plant-based, low in sugar and fat and
rich in essential nutrients. Its meal delivery program features delicious
dishes which are prepared from dairy-free, gluten-free and non-GMO vegetables,
fruits, herbs and grains.
For more information, please visit 22daysnutrition.com
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