Seven (07) Quick Tips for Vegetarian Health
Mostly these tips really apply to everyone, not only just vegetarians. They may seem naughty, but they are faithful and you will see the difference in your health and energy levels. Need some inspiration? See how over 60 people have lost weight and improved their health on a vegetarian diet, or check out this vegan Engine 2 Diet before and after weight loss photos to see just how beneficial a healthy diet can be to your waistline!
Tip # 1: Eat dark green vegetables at least three times a week (broccoli, spinach, kale, collard greens).
These nutritional homes are full of vitamins such as calcium and iron. On the run or hate spinach? Try drinking your vegetables. Green smoothies are better than a cup of coffee in the morning, and they are really healthy (see: The truth about green smoothies). Here are 8 green smoothie recipes to try. Another thing I do to get my veggies is to add a handful of spinach leaves to my regular salad. A full spinach salad is not very tempting to me, but a handful or so mixed with my favorite red lettuce just goes well.
Tip # 2:Take a vitamin supplement containing B12
Many products, such as soy milk and veggie burgers, are enhanced with B12, so read the label.
Tip # 3: Water Water!
It was said over and over again for a reason, because it is true! Most people don't drink nearly enough (and even if you think you're drinking enough, you probably aren't, especially if you're trying to lose health and lose unhealthy habits).
Also, take a water bottle with you wherever you go and invest in a simple filter for your home. Water is especially important when adapted to a new way of eating, as it can help curb any cravings you may experience.
Specifically, I personally find that drinking plenty of water helps prevent cravings before they even arise. Drink more water than you think you need, and get into the habit of drinking a glass first thing in the morning. This is usually the first thing I do when I roll out of bed and really help wake me up.
If you get used to a diet cola while you work, switch to sparkling water mixed with fruit juice and see if it doesn't keep your hands happy enough to satisfy your habit.
Tip # 4: Make it a goal to eat at least one piece of raw fruit or a handful of raw vegetables every day.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but even if we eat a lot of fresh vegetables, we don't always get fresh produce in our diets, which means we're really missing out! Some days you probably get lots of fresh raw fruits and vegetables, but there are probably many days when you have absolutely nothing.
And also try to eat an apple first thing in the morning to get it out of the way very soon.
I like to have baby carrots on hand for snacking, and I try to assemble a raw green salad every day.
Tip # 5:Reduce your refined sugar intake.
I have as much of a sweet tooth as anyone, but I try to keep it under control by using such sugar substitutes as brown rice syrup, stevia and agave nectar (as in coffee and tea), and in the refined stuff only occasionally.
Similarly, try to avoid processed foods that contain high fructose corn syrup. If you start reading labels, you may be completely shocked to find that this highly processed sweet drum slips into almost everything, from things that need to be healthy - like whole wheat bread and even hummus - to almost everything that comes in a bottle, including barbecue sauce and salad dressing.
Tip # 6: Keep your favorite salad dressing at hand.
I find it much more likely to eat my vegetables or raw vegetables when my favorite salad dressing is in the fridge. A small variety is also good - I try to keep at least two types, either for sale or homemade at all times. Some of my favorites are homemade goddess decoration, Thai peanut sauce from my local Asian grocery store and Raspberry Vinaigrette. A vegan dressing was also helpful when trying to wean myself from dairy.
Tip # 7: Eat the Rainbow!
Fruits and vegetables all contain different nutrients. An easy way to remember to eat a variety of vitamins and minerals is to vary the colors of the fruits and vegetables you eat. Even greens are always good, but try eating a rainbow of tomatoes, yellow squash and purple cabbage!
This is one thing I often have to remind myself of, as I often get into food routes or habits. I make my green salads almost the same way, but really have to mix it up. Thinly sliced leeks, chopped chopped beets, dad.
