Sometimes, you realize a lifestyle doesn’t work anymore, and you decide to change. People have different reasons they stop eating meat. Some have learned about the benefits of eating less meat. Others do it because of their dedication to conserving nature and its resources.
There are also people who go vegetarian because they value the lives of animals. There can be many reasons a person stops eating meat, and there are also benefits that we could enjoy once we stop consuming meat.
One of the Benefits of Eating Less Meat is You Help the Environment
Did you know that by eating less meat, you help protect our environment? You may be wondering, how does eating less meat help climate change?
Meat production produces greenhouse gases, which in turn cause harm to the environment such as reduced air quality. A report from the United Nation in 2006 showed that the meat production industry uses an abundance of resources including land and water and contributes greatly to water pollution.
Now, just by having at least one day a week without meat, you can save 1,100 gallons of water, 45 pounds of grain, 30 square feet of forest, and 10 pounds of carbon dioxide according to USA Today.
Decrease Risk of Disease
Those who eat less meat are less likely to develop heart disease, which according to Women’s Health Magazine, is the number one killer of women.
Red and processed meats contain saturated fat, which can cause bad cholesterol (LDL) to rise.
Did you know that by eating less red meat you can live longer? Swapping one serving of beef a day can decrease your risk of dying young by 19 percent. Less meat is neat, wouldn’t you agree?
Enjoy a Trimmer Waistline
You may have read about the many valid concerns of the people who are opposed to eating less meat.
Perhaps one of those biggest concerns is not getting enough protein in their diet. For a daily diet of 2,000 calories, 50 grams of protein is recommended.
Some forms of meat, while high in protein, are also high in fat and cholesterol, particularly red meat. Now, they are educating people that there are other ways to get protein.
Non-meats that are high in proteins include beans and legumes. They also contain far fewer calories while still providing a nutritional boost and can help you feel fuller for a longer period of time.
Additionally, you can incorporate nuts and seeds as a source of healthy unsaturated foods. You get the protein that you need without the bad effects.
Better Brain Health
Eating a diet that contains mostly plants and legumes rather than meat can contribute to better brain health.
A study revealed those who ate more produce and less meat had less brain shrinkage as an adult, which can lead to memory and health issues. Now, you can list this as one of the benefits of meatless Monday.
Eat Less Meat with These Tips
Try to eat more fruits and vegetables with your meals. You will get used to it.
You can also add some fruit to your cereal or some fresh leafy greens to a smoothie to get some extra protein. Plus, you don’t have to cut out meat completely to experience health benefits.
Try to reduce your portion size or try to have one day or even one meal that is entirely plant-based. Skip the processed meats and try to eat more chicken and fish rather than beef or pork.
You can also substitute meat for other protein options such as beans, legumes, mushrooms, or tofu. Do some research, and you will find foods that don’t have meat that are equally delicious and could even be more affordable.
Takeaway
Now that you know the different benefits of eating less meat, can you challenge yourself to change your lifestyle?
What about trying no meat for 30 days and see how far you can go? Not only can you help yourself be healthier, but you will also help the environment.
Sources: [Consumer Reports, Harvard Health Publishing, MayoClinic, SFGate, USA Today, Women’s Health Magazine]