What Are Some Healthy, Vegetarian Diet Foods?

Types of Vegetarian Diets

• There are several types of vegetarians:
  *Vegans who eat only plant-based foods
  *Lacto-vegetarians who consume milk products such as cheese, sour cream and milk.
  *Lacto-ovo vegetarians who eat milk, eggs, cheese and yogurt as well as plant based foods
  * Flexitarians who primarily eat plant based foods but occasionally indulge in meat, poultry or fish.
  
  

Vegetarian Benefits

• According to a report by the World Cancer Research Fund, eating a plant based diet can lower the risk of contracting cancer. Many fruits and vegetables contain cancer-protective properties. Eating less fatty meats, processed foods and high fat dairy have many benefits, including less risk for cancer, diabetes, and heart related illnesses. Also, vegans often feel that they are creating a more humane and caring world by leaving animals to be free.
  
  

Protein Sources

• Chickpeas are a tasty protein
  
  When one follows a vegetarian diet plan it does take a some extra work to get all the nutrition that is necessary for a healthy lifestyle. The main sources of vegetarian protein are legumes, such as chickpeas, lentils and other beans; as well as peanut butter and tofu. Many available products are conceived from soy such as tofu burgers, tofu turkey, and other texturized "meat" products. You can be creative in cooking, experiment with seasonings and have delicious and nutritious meals.
  
  

Best Carbohydrates

• Eating high fiber carbs are important for the vegetarian. Whole grain breads, brown rice, couscous, barley and millet are just a few healthy suggestions for the vegetarian. Whole wheat pasta with mushrooms, crumbled tofu and tomato sauce is a combination that makes a great healthy dinner. Add a green salad with olive oil and lemon juice salad dressing.
  
  

Vegetables, Fruit and Nuts

• Nuts are full of nutrients
  
  All vegetables contain healthy vitamins and minerals. Eating lots of leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables which include cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are excellent vitamin sources. Avocado is great to make a guacamole dip with baked tortilla chips, Many fruits, especially all berries, are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Fruit juices with added calcium help insure that you're getting adequate calcium. Nuts are high in monounsaturated fats and rich in potassium, magnesium and many vitamins.