Will You Lose Weight if You Go Vegetarian?

Mind is All

Have you considered going vegetarian because of the many popular weight loss books that claim going vegetarian will ensure weight loss? Have you wondered if these claims are trustworthy?

You probably think vegetarians eat only fresh produce, and you probably imagine them all to be stick-thin waifs who munch on carrot sticks with delight. The truth is, going vegetarian only means not eating meat products, which still leaves you vulnerable to weight-gaining eating habits. You may think going vegan will solve the problem, but that just means you don't eat meat, eggs, or dairy, which still leaves room for cake, cookies, and candy.

Chances are your problem isn't that you eat too much meat. Sure, those who eat plenty of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains have better digestion and eliminate more often (that’s a nice way to say they have more bowel movements), but not all vegetarians eat as much fresh produce as they should. New "vegetarians" need to be careful not to fall into the trap of becoming "carbotarians", people who live on breads, fried vegetables, fried tofu, and sugary foods.

In fact, protein is good for weight loss and overall satiation. Protein consumption supports muscle and helps stave off cravings. This is not to say vegetarians can't get more than enough protein from a vegetarian diet, just that inexperienced vegetarians may not know how to do so. Unless you’re eating half-pound hamburgers all the time, meat probably isn’t your problem.

However, most Americans could stand to increase their fruit, vegetable, and whole grain consumption, assuming they exchange this for a reduction in consumption of high calorie, highly processed foods. The health benefits that come from a diet packed with fruit and vegetables are astounding, and yet most Americans forego fresh produce in favor of sweets and unhealthy menu choices. They are usually lower in calories than other food choices, and calorie control combined with exercise is the safest bet for weight loss.

So you want to lose weight? You don't need to go strictly vegetarian to lose weight. Just increase your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables, and forego the processed foods and high calorie meats. You’ll find success with a moderate diet plan that includes exercise.