October 1st is World Vegetarian Day, an annual celebration to raise awareness and to educate people about the health and social benefits of eliminating meat from their diets. Established by the North American Vegetarian Society in 1977 and endorsed by the International Vegetarian Union in 1978, the motto of the day is “to promote the joy, compassion, and life-enhancing possibilities of vegetarianism.” As advocates for a well-balanced and holistic lifestyle, SCPT is sharing some interesting information to consider on World Vegetarian Day.
Every year, there are thousands of people making the move to a healthier and a more conscientious lifestyle. People choose to become vegetarians for various reasons, with the primary motivations as health, environmental, and ethical concerns.
U.S. News & World Report ranked the vegetarian diet as number 10 in best overall diets. Adopting a vegetarian diet can be a great entry into experiencing better health. A well-balanced, vegetarian diet is typically low in saturated fats and high in complex carbohydrates and fiber. Harvard Health Publications reports many studies have shown that vegetarian diets are significantly healthier than diets that contain animal products, and this often results in vegetarians having lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
Want to give the vegetarian diet a try but don’t know where to start with meal planning? The American Diabetes Association offers numerous meal and breakfast ideas. The American Heart Association offers great tips for going meatless, especially for people who would like to lower their cholesterol levels and decrease their risk of heart disease.
Skipping meat certainly does not mean skipping flavor. When vegetarian choices are delicious and hearty, it’s easy to swap ingredients to feature plant-based proteins. The Food Network shares healthy vegetarian recipes to savor any night of the week, like Spicy Vegan Sloppy Joes, Mushroom-Hummus Soup, and Slow-Cooker Mushroom Barley Risotto. Stumped for sides? These Cooking Light vegetarian recipes pair well with meatless entrees or stand alone to satisfy.
This World Vegetarian Day, explore the health benefits of a vegetarian diet and the variety of delicious and healthy vegetarian options, even if you have no desire to live a vegetarian lifestyle. It may give you an opportunity to try out new restaurants and dishes, or even just to share the information with a friend or family member, who may be considering making a change in their food choices.
Taking the simplest step can direct you and your loved ones on the right track to better living and better health. SCPT is here to help you live your healthiest lifestyle, everyday – connect with us today, with any questions.
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