Understanding Plant-Based Diets
Have you heard of Veganuary? It is an awareness month during January aimed at shedding light on the many benefits of a vegan diet. A vegan diet includes plant-based foods such as rice, grains, oats, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. A variety of substitutes for animal-derived ingredients are available and provide a nutrient-dense alternative to meat or dairy.
While this January is coming to a close, it’s never too late to see if a vegan diet could help you reach your weight loss goals. To learn more about which weight loss options would be best for you, contact Soza Weight Loss at (504) 475-9817 to schedule a consultation.
Lighter Meat Substitutes
Plant-based alternatives aren’t as heavy as meat, meaning you’ll typically consume less calories and fat when switching to a vegan diet. Many people are hesitant to go vegan because of presumed difficulty finding meat substitutes; however, grocery stores and several restaurants offer vegan options. You can even download the Veganuary Celebrity Cookbook for free!
One of the main worries about vegan diets is lack of protein, but fortunately there are plenty of protein-heavy meatless options to choose from. As long as you find some you like and add them into your diet, you can still eat healthy meals full of protein!
As stated by Live Science, a balanced diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables is one of the most effective ways to manage weight. Additionally, a 2017 study published in the National Library of Medicine yielded positive results for plant-based diets in the treatment and prevention of obesity. Research has also found that individuals who practice veganism typically demonstrate heightened metabolisms, meaning more calories are burned even at rest.
Furthermore, observational researched outlined by the National Academy of Sports Medicine suggests that those who follow plant-based diets not only tend to weigh less than those who don’t, but they also tend to gain less weight over time.
More Than Just Weight Loss
While weight management plays a large role in vegan diets, going plant-based comes with a variety of additional health benefits, including, but not limited to:
- Inflammation relief
- Lower cholesterol and blood glucose
- Decreased risk of stroke, cancer, diabetes, and cataracts
Plant-based diets also help maintain a healthy digestive system since they are high in fiber, therefore providing constipation relief. In general, adopting a healthy vegan diet could help you jumpstart a healthier lifestyle overall.
Get Started with Soza Weight Loss
At Soza Weight Loss, our healthy living program offers personalized and adjustable meal plans, meaning your provider can help you tailor your diet to your specific needs and goals. To learn more about our weight loss programs and how we can help you manage your weight, contact us today at (504) 475-9817!