Meatbusters: Top 5 Plant-based Myths Debunked
Like any other kind of diet or fitness regime, there are plenty of myths surrounding plant-based diets. With more people becoming interested now in switching to plant-forward diets, it?s natural that some will have different perceptions of it. However, myths should always be separated from the truth especially if health enthusiasts want to make the most of the benefits of this diet brings.
If you are looking to integrate plant-based diet to your health plan now, here are some of the myths about it that you need to forget now:
Plant-based foods are boring
Most people mistakenly think that plant-based foods taste bland and are unappealing, especially for those less adventurous when it comes to food. The truth is there are a plethora of exciting plant-based meal options that will prove such foods are anything but boring. Maybe they just need a bit more inspiration to make their usual meal be healthier and taste better.
For example, they can spice up their lunch with potatoes and cauliflowers curry. For Taco Tuesdays, lentil tacos paired with tasty dips and spices will sure make them forget about regular beef tacos.
Plant-based foods don?t have enough nutrients
Some are also wary about making their meals more plant-based because they think they don?t provide enough nutrients, protein for example. What they don?t know is that plants pack the most nutrients compared to other food groups. Even a simple healthy meal plan can help provide you with the vitamins and nutrients you need.
Leafy greens are rich in zinc and calcium while fruits like pineapple and oranges are great sources for Vitamin C. Worried about protein? You can easily get it from beans, legumes and peanut butter. You might need to take supplementary B12 though in addition to your plant-based diet
Plant-based diet will leave you hungry
While plant-based foods have low-calorie density, that doesn?t mean you will be hungry more often. Plant-based foods are typically high in fibre and low in sugar, which can suppress appetite. This means you will feel full for much longer, which can be very helpful if you trying to lose weight.
It might help you to consume more plant-based foods that are rich in protein like tofu, tempeh or soybeans. Drinking a lot of water can also help relieve the feeling of hunger. Sometimes, you might just be just feeling thirsty and not hungry.
Plant-based diet means no to meat
Lastly, adopting a plant-forward diet doesn?t mean you absolutely can?t eat meat anymore. It?s just that you?re eating more plant-based food and less on meat. You can still indulge yourself in some chicken or beef once in a while, but they are not the main components of your meals now.
For example, if you want to mix things up a bit, you can garnish your fresh, leafy salad with strips of chicken meat and cheese.
A plant-based diet has numerous benefits and can help you lose weight or achieve your fitness goals. However, you also need to dispel all misconceptions about it so you can fully integrate it into your daily routine.
