It has become easier for many people to avoid eating meat because of the number of plant-based meat alternatives available in the market. We can see a proliferation of products derived from plants. Access to healthier meat-free options has created a shift in people’s mindset and diet. Nevertheless, a burning question still remains: what happens when you stop eating meat? For those who are wondering if it is even worth it and beneficial to stop eating meat, here are a few thoughts that may help you.
Focusing on a plant-based diet is beneficial for your heart.
Processed meat and animal byproducts contain high levels of saturated fat and sodium. All these can increase our chances of getting hypertension and developing other heart diseases. Removing meat from our diet and eating more vegetables and fruits can reduce blood cholesterol levels and reverse symptoms of most heart diseases. This is because plant-based foods are low in saturated fat and don’t contain cholesterol.
It will be easier to manage your weight.
Eating calorie-dense meat is one of the causes of weight gain mainly because the protein found in meat is not readily digested. As a result, the body treats meat protein as a surplus and then stores it as fat. Eating a lot of meat gives us more calories than we can burn. To compare, plant-based foods contain lesser calories and unhealthy fat. Cutting off meat and loading up on vegetables will help us lose weight and manage to keep the extra pounds off.
A meat-free diet reduces digestive problems.
The kind of fat and protein found in meat takes a lot of time to digest. This leads to indigestion, bloating, and constipation. Removing meat from our diet can improve our overall intestinal health. We can further boost our digestive system by eating more fiber-rich foods and drinking at least eight glasses of water. This will help the growth of good bacteria in our gut and improve bowel movement.
We will feel more energized.
Have you ever felt sluggish and tired after eating a meat-heavy meal? This is because the body exerts more effort to process meat. As it digests, the body diverts our energy and blood flow from other areas of the gut. Not eating meat will help us avoid being in this kind of situation. Plant-based nutrients will not only keep us healthy but will also help us feel energized to lead an active lifestyle.
A healthy tummy means glowing skin.
Whatever we put inside our body is reflected on the outside. Not ingesting toxins from processed meat while adding fiber and antioxidants in our plant-based diet will help reduce skin impurities and acne breakouts.
Shifting to a plant-based and meat-free diet can do wonders for our body. Most of the issues we encounter with our bodies stem from what we consume. By being mindful of the food we eat, we also get closer to having a healthier lifestyle.
