David Tyree may have been the star of the Super Bowl, helping the New York Giants beat the previously undefeated New England Patriots, but in my eyes, Kansas City Chiefs tight-end Tony Gonzalez is the biggest NFL champion. His team may not have made the Super Bowl, but as The Wall Street Journal recently reported, Gonzalez proved that a football player can be powerful without eating heaping helping of meat, eggs, and dairy products. Gonzalez has acknowledged that the meat-heavy diet typically eaten by football players can lead two serious health problems, including heart disease and cancer, and is promoting plant-based foods.
A number of other professional athletes and Olympic superstars have touted the benefits of vegetarian and vegan diets. Four-time Mr. Universe Bill Pearl, powerlifting champion Bill Mannetti, 1951 Mr. America Roy Hilligenn, Stan Price, the world record in the bench press, and football player and Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard all reportedly did not eat meat. These power houses Are not alone some of the strongest animals, such as apes, elephants, and giraffes, are herbivorous.
International Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation and International Natural Bodybuilding Association bodybuilder Robert Cheek is perhaps the world's most Recognized vegan bodybuilder and popular strength trainer Mike Mahler says that "Becoming a vegan had a profound effect on my training. ... [M] y bench press excelled past 315 pounds, and I noticed that I recovered much faster. My body fat also went down, and I put on 10 pounds of lean muscle in a few months. "
Other vegetarian athletes, including tennis superstar Martina Navratilova and Dave Scott, a six-time winner of the Ironman triathlon, have repeatedly beaten their carnivorous competitors. Swimmer Murray Rose, a vegetarian since birth, has six Olympic medals. Debbie Lawrence is an Olympic race walking champ, and discus thrower Al Oerter has won at least four Olympic gold medals. A healthy vegetarian diet helped prop two-time Olympic gold medalist Edwin Moses over the hurdles, and Olympian Carl Lewis has said that his best year of track competition was the first year that he ate a vegan diet.
Famed Argentinian soccer goalkeeper Carlos Roa, was nicknamed "La Lechuga," meaning "The Lettuce," because of his strict vegetarian diet. Bill Walton And Robert Parish, two of the greatest basketball players of all time, were vegetarians, and John Salley, another professional basketball star, is a vegan. So is ultra-marathon Mon Dom Repta, who has run 100 miles in just under 20 hours.
Australian Cricket superstar Greg Chappel also abstains from animal flesh and animal by-products and fellow cricket superstar Anil Kumble has posed for a PETA advertisement promoting vegetarianism. Says Anil, "vegetarianism saves animals' lives and can not be beat for Maintaining a muscular body and building endurance. Vegetarian food contains all the vitamins and protein you need to be at your best and is free of all the fat, cholesterol and toxins found in meat. "
It does not matter if you're playing for fun or playing for championships, if you want to excel, practice hard and eat a vegan diet healthy. See http://www.VegCooking.com for recipes that are fit for a champ!
Heather Moore is a senior writer for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in Norfolk, Va.. where she lives with her rescued, however, Carly. Heather frequently writes on vegetarianism and health issues as a freelance writer and for PETA. This work has appeared in IMPACT Press, Enlightened Practice Magazine, Animal's Agenda, I Love Cats, New Mobility, Satya, Wadi, Vivid, Writer's Post Journal, and many other publications.
Rabu, 28 April 2010
How to Convert to a Vegan Diet in 6 Easy Steps
Congratulations on considering a switch to a vegan diet. If you have gotten this far in your conversion, you already understand the benefits of the vegan / vegetarian diet, so I will leave that discussion for another article. While many are Able to simply flip a switch and assume a new life, following are some simple guidelines two assistants the rest of us.
1st Write a list of the benefits that you expect two accomplish with your new diet. Many convert to vegan / vegetarian diets for health or weight loss reasons. Others do so two reduced their impact on the environment or DETACH two themselves from the unethical slaughtering of animals that is implicit in the meat industry. Yet others, like myself, convert dove two philosophical reasons or because they simply feel more "right with the world" as a vegan / vegetarian. Whatever your reason, get in touch with the new you.
2nd Recognize that some compromises will have to be made. The food you eat will likely be different from the food that many of your family, friends and close colleagues will eat. Prepare yourself to explain that your conversion is important to you and that you will not judgmental them, nor do you expect to be judged by them.
3rd Many find that getting comfortable on a lacto-ovo (including dairy and egg-food items) vegetarian diet for a few months helps before the full conversion to a vegan diet is helpful. Be prepared to lose a few pounds of body weight while you experiment with new foods. If you have already gotten used two tofu and other soy products such as temper and textured vegetable proteins (ZDF), you are ahead of the game. If not, do not fear, that you will find these products (they are readily available in health food and large grocery stores) can be made two closely resemble and taste like their meat counterparts, the reducing change you will have to experience.
4th Search the Internet for vegan / vegetarian recipes. Though restaurants are becoming Increasingly accommodating of vegan / vegetarian diets, one of the benefits for me in the early years was the necessity of Preparing many of my own meals made me a better cook and I saved money compared to eating out. There are also many vegan cookbooks that are readily available.
5th If improved health was one of Your motivation for your conversion two a vegan / vegetarian diet, Recognize that you still must be mindful of the quality of the ingredients in your food. Try to Utilize whole grains and pastas; use cooking oils high in omega 3 fatty acids, such as hemp, flax or olive oils, avoid sugars and glucose (yes, including honey) and other simple carbohydrates like processed grains as much as possible; Ensure you get enough protein from beans, legumes, nuts and related products (consider a plant-based protein supplement if your diet is Calorie-restricted).
6th Cast a shining light of health and happiness. You are making the world a Better Place. Your food choices protect the spirit of life.
1st Write a list of the benefits that you expect two accomplish with your new diet. Many convert to vegan / vegetarian diets for health or weight loss reasons. Others do so two reduced their impact on the environment or DETACH two themselves from the unethical slaughtering of animals that is implicit in the meat industry. Yet others, like myself, convert dove two philosophical reasons or because they simply feel more "right with the world" as a vegan / vegetarian. Whatever your reason, get in touch with the new you.
2nd Recognize that some compromises will have to be made. The food you eat will likely be different from the food that many of your family, friends and close colleagues will eat. Prepare yourself to explain that your conversion is important to you and that you will not judgmental them, nor do you expect to be judged by them.
3rd Many find that getting comfortable on a lacto-ovo (including dairy and egg-food items) vegetarian diet for a few months helps before the full conversion to a vegan diet is helpful. Be prepared to lose a few pounds of body weight while you experiment with new foods. If you have already gotten used two tofu and other soy products such as temper and textured vegetable proteins (ZDF), you are ahead of the game. If not, do not fear, that you will find these products (they are readily available in health food and large grocery stores) can be made two closely resemble and taste like their meat counterparts, the reducing change you will have to experience.
4th Search the Internet for vegan / vegetarian recipes. Though restaurants are becoming Increasingly accommodating of vegan / vegetarian diets, one of the benefits for me in the early years was the necessity of Preparing many of my own meals made me a better cook and I saved money compared to eating out. There are also many vegan cookbooks that are readily available.
5th If improved health was one of Your motivation for your conversion two a vegan / vegetarian diet, Recognize that you still must be mindful of the quality of the ingredients in your food. Try to Utilize whole grains and pastas; use cooking oils high in omega 3 fatty acids, such as hemp, flax or olive oils, avoid sugars and glucose (yes, including honey) and other simple carbohydrates like processed grains as much as possible; Ensure you get enough protein from beans, legumes, nuts and related products (consider a plant-based protein supplement if your diet is Calorie-restricted).
6th Cast a shining light of health and happiness. You are making the world a Better Place. Your food choices protect the spirit of life.
The Benefits of a Flexitarian Lifestyle
Have you ever considered becoming a vegetarian but can not imagine your Meals without Meat?
Wish Many people to follow the vegetarian lifestyle is the Health Benefits, but can not imagine not eating Meat. Why not become a Flexitarian?
The Flexitarian is somebody who Follows the Mainly vegetarian diet with occasional Meat consumption. It Has Been by Health Authorities suggest that 2 or 3 Meat Free Days per week can be of great Benefit to health.
Grocery Stores carry a much Wider range of vegetarian and natural Whole Foods now than ever before, so it is very easy to work this exciting way of eating into your diet without losing taste and variety.
Let's talk a little more about the Health Benefits of Meat Cutting down the products from the diet. Some of the Benefits are: -
The likelihood of the infectious diseases and cancers are reduced.
Blood pressure and the cholesterols levels will be reduced.
vegetarian on average weigh about 15% less Meat eaters, You Can Eat to Lose Weight!
By eating a more plant based foods Blood Sugar levels stabler Leaving You Will remain satisfied for longer and less to Reach for the snacks.
You see the Will the Reduction In Your Grocery Bill.
Although some of Cutting Meat products out of the diet may be beneficial to health, it is very important to ensure that the Balanced diet being eaten. There are many other ways to get protein into your diet without eating Meat Every Day, for example chick Peas are a great source of protein and Fibre and are a very versatile cooking ingredients. The Chick Pea Salad is perfect for the summer!
Wish Many people to follow the vegetarian lifestyle is the Health Benefits, but can not imagine not eating Meat. Why not become a Flexitarian?
The Flexitarian is somebody who Follows the Mainly vegetarian diet with occasional Meat consumption. It Has Been by Health Authorities suggest that 2 or 3 Meat Free Days per week can be of great Benefit to health.
Grocery Stores carry a much Wider range of vegetarian and natural Whole Foods now than ever before, so it is very easy to work this exciting way of eating into your diet without losing taste and variety.
Let's talk a little more about the Health Benefits of Meat Cutting down the products from the diet. Some of the Benefits are: -
The likelihood of the infectious diseases and cancers are reduced.
Blood pressure and the cholesterols levels will be reduced.
vegetarian on average weigh about 15% less Meat eaters, You Can Eat to Lose Weight!
By eating a more plant based foods Blood Sugar levels stabler Leaving You Will remain satisfied for longer and less to Reach for the snacks.
You see the Will the Reduction In Your Grocery Bill.
Although some of Cutting Meat products out of the diet may be beneficial to health, it is very important to ensure that the Balanced diet being eaten. There are many other ways to get protein into your diet without eating Meat Every Day, for example chick Peas are a great source of protein and Fibre and are a very versatile cooking ingredients. The Chick Pea Salad is perfect for the summer!
Vegetarian Vs Meat Lovers
Non-vegetarians may find it fascinating how some people are able to give up meat and become accustomed to an entirely different lifestyle. The truth is vegetarians make that switch for quite a number of sensible reasons.
Most vegetarians claim that most of them have chosen to make the switch to a meat-free diet for at least one out of three reasons.
The first and most common reason is that there are various ethical problems that arise from eating meat. Most people may think that debeaking chickens, forcing them to live in small cages, and slaughtering them when they don't produce eggs fast enough is inhumane.
Most vegetarians also find it bothersome to have animals live in such crowded and stressful environments. The fact that most of these animals are fed with hormone-laden feed doesn't help either.
People who become vegetarians because of this often draw ethical boundaries at different points, depending on their ethical beliefs. For example, some vegans will not even eat yeast, wear wool, or eat certain vegetables like carrots, which require killing the plant to harvest.
On the other hand, some vegans, also referred to as pseudo-vegans, actually think that it's okay to eat fish and chicken on a regular basis.
The second most popular reason that most vegans make the switch is because eating meat conflicts with their dietary preferences, while some simply don't enjoy the texture and taste of meat. Others avoid meat for health concerns, especially those who are having problems with high cholesterol.
The third reason that most vegetarians cite as their reason for conversion is the fact that consuming meat hurts the environment. According to them, the consumption of meat causes farmers to continually deforest vast lands in order to make way for cattle grazing land.
These are just a few of the reasons that people switch to meat-free diets. In fact, there are quite a number of smaller vegan groups who chose to avoid meat for entirely different reasons than the ones listed above.
Most vegetarians claim that most of them have chosen to make the switch to a meat-free diet for at least one out of three reasons.
The first and most common reason is that there are various ethical problems that arise from eating meat. Most people may think that debeaking chickens, forcing them to live in small cages, and slaughtering them when they don't produce eggs fast enough is inhumane.
Most vegetarians also find it bothersome to have animals live in such crowded and stressful environments. The fact that most of these animals are fed with hormone-laden feed doesn't help either.
People who become vegetarians because of this often draw ethical boundaries at different points, depending on their ethical beliefs. For example, some vegans will not even eat yeast, wear wool, or eat certain vegetables like carrots, which require killing the plant to harvest.
On the other hand, some vegans, also referred to as pseudo-vegans, actually think that it's okay to eat fish and chicken on a regular basis.
The second most popular reason that most vegans make the switch is because eating meat conflicts with their dietary preferences, while some simply don't enjoy the texture and taste of meat. Others avoid meat for health concerns, especially those who are having problems with high cholesterol.
The third reason that most vegetarians cite as their reason for conversion is the fact that consuming meat hurts the environment. According to them, the consumption of meat causes farmers to continually deforest vast lands in order to make way for cattle grazing land.
These are just a few of the reasons that people switch to meat-free diets. In fact, there are quite a number of smaller vegan groups who chose to avoid meat for entirely different reasons than the ones listed above.
What Are the Types of Vegetarians?
A vegetarian is a person who does not eat anything that ever had a heartbeat, a face or a mother. In other words, no animal flesh in the least. Someone who claims to be a vegetarian but eats fish or fowl, for example, is not a vegetarian but an omnivore with a qualified diet. Omnivores eat plant life and flesh. For carnivores, meat is the mainstay of their diet. There are three general types of vegetarians: 1. Vegan 2. Lacto 3. Ovo-lacto.
"Vegan" (pronounced "vee-gun") describes one who eats no animal products at all. This includes abstention from eggs, egg whites and all dairy products. 'Vegans' comprise the strictest type of vegetarians. "Lacto" references those vegetarians who include dairy in their diet but no eggs or egg whites. "Ovo-lacto" is that group which includes eggs and dairy. They comprise the largest class of vegetarians. However, no vegetarian consumes any product whose ingredients are derived from the flesh of living creatures. Cautious vegetarians even avoid soups and broths made with beef or chicken bases and foods containing gelatin which is made by boiling animal remains.
Vegetarians are Growing in number. Because of the many salutary benefits of this dietary regimen, it is not inconceivable to consider that eventually more people will be 'vege-heads' than 'flesh-heads'. It is simply a process of education and experience and wanting to live a healthy and spiritually whole life. Being a vegetarian, once heralded as strange and weird, is now quite accepted. With the relative abundance of non-meat foods and products on the market today, a number that is growing rapidly, it is easy to make the switch. All one has to do is overcome the inertia of his conditioning - not a difficult task when one considers the trade-off and benefits of the transaction.
"Vegan" (pronounced "vee-gun") describes one who eats no animal products at all. This includes abstention from eggs, egg whites and all dairy products. 'Vegans' comprise the strictest type of vegetarians. "Lacto" references those vegetarians who include dairy in their diet but no eggs or egg whites. "Ovo-lacto" is that group which includes eggs and dairy. They comprise the largest class of vegetarians. However, no vegetarian consumes any product whose ingredients are derived from the flesh of living creatures. Cautious vegetarians even avoid soups and broths made with beef or chicken bases and foods containing gelatin which is made by boiling animal remains.
Vegetarians are Growing in number. Because of the many salutary benefits of this dietary regimen, it is not inconceivable to consider that eventually more people will be 'vege-heads' than 'flesh-heads'. It is simply a process of education and experience and wanting to live a healthy and spiritually whole life. Being a vegetarian, once heralded as strange and weird, is now quite accepted. With the relative abundance of non-meat foods and products on the market today, a number that is growing rapidly, it is easy to make the switch. All one has to do is overcome the inertia of his conditioning - not a difficult task when one considers the trade-off and benefits of the transaction.
Basic Healthy Eating Guide
There are so many surveys and studies published that it's not always easy to discover a basic healthy eating guide. One week, a low carbohydrate diet is healthy for you. Another week you should be turning vegetarian. Sometimes, drinking red wine is good for you. Other times, you should avoid alcohol at all costs. Who should you believe?
Ultimately, finding a basic healthy eating guide is a matter of common sense. Using history to help is also a good start. Over the years, mankind has had access to meat in the form of animals. We know from archaeological studies that we've been at the hunting end of the food chain for thousands of years. So chances are, we've adapted quite well to eating meat and fish.
We also know that plants have grown, whether or not we have helped in their cultivation. So it's a fair bet that eating fruit and vegetables is good for us.
Where does this lead us in our quest for a basic healthy eating guide?
Well, regardless of the latest diet fad, it should tell us that, so long as we eat them in moderation, pretty much any natural food is one that we can eat quite safely.
It should also tell us to be cautious about food that has either been processed too much or isn't in season.
It is only in the last few decades that we have been able to wander into a supermarket and buy fresh food whether or not it is in season. Strawberries all year round. Exotic fruits and vegetables that our ancestors didn't even know existed. We just haven't had time to adapt to this kind of luxury. And our attempts to eat healthily are sometimes being thwarted by the luxury that we take for granted in the western world.
This isn't to say that we should necessarily adopt a monk-like attitude. But it does mean that when we are formulating our own basic healthy eating guide, we should at least pay attention to nature. Ok, enjoy an occasional out of season item. But don't make it an everyday occurrence. This will actually help you to enjoy your food more as you'll start to look forward to eating things only occasionally.
So, go ahead, ignore the "experts" who all contradict each other anyway. Come up with your own basic healthy eating guide. Listen to your inner voice and stay closer to the natural seasons. Your health will thank you for it
Ultimately, finding a basic healthy eating guide is a matter of common sense. Using history to help is also a good start. Over the years, mankind has had access to meat in the form of animals. We know from archaeological studies that we've been at the hunting end of the food chain for thousands of years. So chances are, we've adapted quite well to eating meat and fish.
We also know that plants have grown, whether or not we have helped in their cultivation. So it's a fair bet that eating fruit and vegetables is good for us.
Where does this lead us in our quest for a basic healthy eating guide?
Well, regardless of the latest diet fad, it should tell us that, so long as we eat them in moderation, pretty much any natural food is one that we can eat quite safely.
It should also tell us to be cautious about food that has either been processed too much or isn't in season.
It is only in the last few decades that we have been able to wander into a supermarket and buy fresh food whether or not it is in season. Strawberries all year round. Exotic fruits and vegetables that our ancestors didn't even know existed. We just haven't had time to adapt to this kind of luxury. And our attempts to eat healthily are sometimes being thwarted by the luxury that we take for granted in the western world.
This isn't to say that we should necessarily adopt a monk-like attitude. But it does mean that when we are formulating our own basic healthy eating guide, we should at least pay attention to nature. Ok, enjoy an occasional out of season item. But don't make it an everyday occurrence. This will actually help you to enjoy your food more as you'll start to look forward to eating things only occasionally.
So, go ahead, ignore the "experts" who all contradict each other anyway. Come up with your own basic healthy eating guide. Listen to your inner voice and stay closer to the natural seasons. Your health will thank you for it
Raw Food Diet Detox
A diet comprised of 100% uncooked food when used for the purpose of detoxification of the body is referred to as a raw food detox diet. Detoxification or detox refers to the process of elimination of toxins, produced either internally from metabolic wastes or coming from external sources such food and environment, that get accumulated in the body over a period of time, giving rise to a host of diseases.
A raw food detox diet primarily includes vegetarian or vegan foods, though sometimes meat and fish may be allowed too if one can manage to eat them raw. Such a diet promotes the elimination of harmful substances from the body through the body's excretory organs like kidneys, bowel and skin.
How a raw food diet detox works?
The principle behind a raw food detox diet is the belief that food in its natural uncooked form has all the vital nutrients and enzymes intact, whereas cooking by conventional methods devitalizes the food due to breakdown of these substances. In a sense, raw food is a kind of living food, with a latent life force that under appropriate conditions facilitates germination and growth of a new plant from a seed.
Advocates of the raw food diet detox believe that when the body is fed with foods that are rich in life force, digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, while at the same time being deprived of devitalized and toxin-laden foods, it gets into the self-detoxification and cleansing mode.
What goes wrong during cooking?
When food is heated to temperatures above 117 º F (47 º C) for more than a few minutes: (i) a substantial amount of vital digestive enzymes and nutrients get destroyed; (ii) proteins get denatured and coagulated, causing deficiency of many amino acids ; (iii) fats when overheated result in the formation of carcinogenic substances.
When the food is cooked in water, the water-soluble minerals get lost due to leaching (even more intensely if one adds salt while cooking), unless one uses the leftover water for gravies or soups. In fact, scientific studies have shown that many of the vegetables lose their antioxidant benefits when boiled or microwaved.
It only gets worse when it comes to ready-to-eat commercially manufactured foods, which may even contain highly detrimental substances like acrylamides. It is for all these reasons that a raw food diet has emerged as the favorite detox diet.
What constitutes a raw food diet detox?
The following foods should be eaten while on a raw food detox diet:
* Whole fresh fruits and vegetables (preferred over juices), if possible unsprayed and organic
* Herbs and wild greens
* Sprouted grains, pulses and seeds
* Nuts soaked in pure water for 12 hours
* Sea plants like Nori, Dulse, Kelp, Algaes
* Foods dehydrated at room temperature so as to preserve life force, enzymes and nutrients
* Herbal teas, preferably organic
What to expect while on a raw food detox diet?
There could be many health reasons for which people go on a raw food detox diet: eg, weight loss, general health improvement, and chronic health problems arising from accumulation of toxins in the body (such as joint pains, headaches, chronic fatigue, constipation , etc.).
During the first two weeks of the raw food diet detox when the process of detoxification starts, initially one is likely to experience some negative detox reactions, such as nausea, headache, tiredness, coated tongue, foul breath, skin eruptions, depression, etc. This is because of the released toxins; it is very important to drink lots of water, take plenty of rest, and resist cooked food otherwise detox will discontinue.
In the next phase, one starts experiencing the benefits of detoxification.
Benefits of a raw food detox diet
The following benefits are experienced after going on a raw food detox diet:
* Feel rejuvenated and energetic, with increased stamina
* Improved digestion, with stable blood sugar levels
* Reduction in joint and muscle problems
* Improvement in concentration
Conclusion
Sticking to a raw food diet detox plan is not difficult with the increased interest in the raw food movement. A whole range of raw detox foods are available in health stores and farmers' markets. And there is a wealth of information available on the Internet, books / magazines to motivate and help you.
A raw food detox diet primarily includes vegetarian or vegan foods, though sometimes meat and fish may be allowed too if one can manage to eat them raw. Such a diet promotes the elimination of harmful substances from the body through the body's excretory organs like kidneys, bowel and skin.
How a raw food diet detox works?
The principle behind a raw food detox diet is the belief that food in its natural uncooked form has all the vital nutrients and enzymes intact, whereas cooking by conventional methods devitalizes the food due to breakdown of these substances. In a sense, raw food is a kind of living food, with a latent life force that under appropriate conditions facilitates germination and growth of a new plant from a seed.
Advocates of the raw food diet detox believe that when the body is fed with foods that are rich in life force, digestive enzymes, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, while at the same time being deprived of devitalized and toxin-laden foods, it gets into the self-detoxification and cleansing mode.
What goes wrong during cooking?
When food is heated to temperatures above 117 º F (47 º C) for more than a few minutes: (i) a substantial amount of vital digestive enzymes and nutrients get destroyed; (ii) proteins get denatured and coagulated, causing deficiency of many amino acids ; (iii) fats when overheated result in the formation of carcinogenic substances.
When the food is cooked in water, the water-soluble minerals get lost due to leaching (even more intensely if one adds salt while cooking), unless one uses the leftover water for gravies or soups. In fact, scientific studies have shown that many of the vegetables lose their antioxidant benefits when boiled or microwaved.
It only gets worse when it comes to ready-to-eat commercially manufactured foods, which may even contain highly detrimental substances like acrylamides. It is for all these reasons that a raw food diet has emerged as the favorite detox diet.
What constitutes a raw food diet detox?
The following foods should be eaten while on a raw food detox diet:
* Whole fresh fruits and vegetables (preferred over juices), if possible unsprayed and organic
* Herbs and wild greens
* Sprouted grains, pulses and seeds
* Nuts soaked in pure water for 12 hours
* Sea plants like Nori, Dulse, Kelp, Algaes
* Foods dehydrated at room temperature so as to preserve life force, enzymes and nutrients
* Herbal teas, preferably organic
What to expect while on a raw food detox diet?
There could be many health reasons for which people go on a raw food detox diet: eg, weight loss, general health improvement, and chronic health problems arising from accumulation of toxins in the body (such as joint pains, headaches, chronic fatigue, constipation , etc.).
During the first two weeks of the raw food diet detox when the process of detoxification starts, initially one is likely to experience some negative detox reactions, such as nausea, headache, tiredness, coated tongue, foul breath, skin eruptions, depression, etc. This is because of the released toxins; it is very important to drink lots of water, take plenty of rest, and resist cooked food otherwise detox will discontinue.
In the next phase, one starts experiencing the benefits of detoxification.
Benefits of a raw food detox diet
The following benefits are experienced after going on a raw food detox diet:
* Feel rejuvenated and energetic, with increased stamina
* Improved digestion, with stable blood sugar levels
* Reduction in joint and muscle problems
* Improvement in concentration
Conclusion
Sticking to a raw food diet detox plan is not difficult with the increased interest in the raw food movement. A whole range of raw detox foods are available in health stores and farmers' markets. And there is a wealth of information available on the Internet, books / magazines to motivate and help you.
Revealed - Soy Protein Increases Energy and Aids in Weight Loss!
Are you concerned about the nutritional content of your food? If so, you're not alone. Many people are becoming concerned with their health and wellness. A 1999 survey indicated that 87% of consumers reported changing their eating habits due to specific health concerns.
Among the greatest worries were heart health and dietary cholesterol intake. The major dietary concern (reported by almost half of those surveyed) was reducing fat. Animal protein is a major contributor to the fat in the average American diet.
Americans eat plenty of protein, but it is mostly from meat, eggs, and dairy sources, which are usually high in saturated fat and cholesterol. In contrast, many soy products are high in protein, naturally low in fat, and naturally lactose and cholesterol free.
Soy also provides all the amino acids, including the nine essential ones your body needs but cannot manufacture itself. Using the newest methods for assessing the quality of protein, soy protein was given the score of 1.0, the highest rating possible and equal to that given animal proteins such as those from eggs and milk.
Soy products are also good sources of calcium and iron. In addition, soy protein provides naturally occurring beneficial plant compounds that are being extensively studied. Soy contains isoflavones, especially genistein and daidzein.
These are intriguing to researchers because they are phytoestrogens and may be related to soy's ability to regulate hormonal balance and deliver long-term health benefits. Some soy protein products are alcohol-processed, which removes isoflavones.
High quality soy protein is water washed to retain naturally occurring isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein and uses only non-genetically modified (GMO) soy protein certified through an Identity Preservation Program (IPP). This program assures that the soy we use is tightly monitored and controlled from planting and harvesting to processing.
The tremendous benefits of soy protein include sustained energy, vitality, and stamina, plus the benefits of naturally occurring isoflavones compounds not present in meat or dairy foods.
Who might benefit from taking a soy protein supplement? Anybody concerned about heart health. People interested in reducing their intake of the typically high-fat, high-cholesterol animal sources of protein and supplementing their diet with a plant-based protein source that is naturally low in fat and lactose and cholesterol free.
Vegetarians or vegans looking for a high-quality protein source that contains no animal products. People interested in the health benefits associated with consuming soy Anyone interested in supporting the body's natural ability to ward off hunger and maintain energy for hours.
How does a soy protein supplement work to sustain energy? The key to any good soy protein supplement is glycemic response. Glycemic response describes the effect a food has on blood sugar. Foods like a hot-fudge sundae can cause your blood sugar to spike and then plummet rapidly.
A short time after you have finished the last spoonful, you feel tired, irritable, and surprisingly hungry considering the number of calories you have just consumed. This is exactly the opposite of how you feel after a serving of high quality soy protein.
In a clinical study, subjects consumed 110 calories from carbohydrates alone and their blood sugar was measured every half hour. As expected, blood sugar shot up immediately and then quickly crashed. It is this rollercoaster response that can lead to feelings of jitteriness, irritability, and hunger.
However, when subjects consumed 110 calories of high quality soy protein, the results were significantly different. Blood sugar did not spike, nor did it plummet. Instead, it remained essentially level. The body's natural metabolic balance was undisturbed.
When choosing a soy protein supplement it should be made of or include the following: it should have at least 12 grams of protein per serving, and the protein itself should come from a natural vegetarian protein source, it should be naturally cholesterol free, it should not contain any saturated fat, and it should only contain 1 gram of total fat per serving.
Your high quality soy protein supplement should meet 50% of your daily needs for calcium and your soy protein supplement should not have any artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, or preservatives added to it. And finally your soy protein supplement should also be kosher certified and come with a money-back guarantee
Among the greatest worries were heart health and dietary cholesterol intake. The major dietary concern (reported by almost half of those surveyed) was reducing fat. Animal protein is a major contributor to the fat in the average American diet.
Americans eat plenty of protein, but it is mostly from meat, eggs, and dairy sources, which are usually high in saturated fat and cholesterol. In contrast, many soy products are high in protein, naturally low in fat, and naturally lactose and cholesterol free.
Soy also provides all the amino acids, including the nine essential ones your body needs but cannot manufacture itself. Using the newest methods for assessing the quality of protein, soy protein was given the score of 1.0, the highest rating possible and equal to that given animal proteins such as those from eggs and milk.
Soy products are also good sources of calcium and iron. In addition, soy protein provides naturally occurring beneficial plant compounds that are being extensively studied. Soy contains isoflavones, especially genistein and daidzein.
These are intriguing to researchers because they are phytoestrogens and may be related to soy's ability to regulate hormonal balance and deliver long-term health benefits. Some soy protein products are alcohol-processed, which removes isoflavones.
High quality soy protein is water washed to retain naturally occurring isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein and uses only non-genetically modified (GMO) soy protein certified through an Identity Preservation Program (IPP). This program assures that the soy we use is tightly monitored and controlled from planting and harvesting to processing.
The tremendous benefits of soy protein include sustained energy, vitality, and stamina, plus the benefits of naturally occurring isoflavones compounds not present in meat or dairy foods.
Who might benefit from taking a soy protein supplement? Anybody concerned about heart health. People interested in reducing their intake of the typically high-fat, high-cholesterol animal sources of protein and supplementing their diet with a plant-based protein source that is naturally low in fat and lactose and cholesterol free.
Vegetarians or vegans looking for a high-quality protein source that contains no animal products. People interested in the health benefits associated with consuming soy Anyone interested in supporting the body's natural ability to ward off hunger and maintain energy for hours.
How does a soy protein supplement work to sustain energy? The key to any good soy protein supplement is glycemic response. Glycemic response describes the effect a food has on blood sugar. Foods like a hot-fudge sundae can cause your blood sugar to spike and then plummet rapidly.
A short time after you have finished the last spoonful, you feel tired, irritable, and surprisingly hungry considering the number of calories you have just consumed. This is exactly the opposite of how you feel after a serving of high quality soy protein.
In a clinical study, subjects consumed 110 calories from carbohydrates alone and their blood sugar was measured every half hour. As expected, blood sugar shot up immediately and then quickly crashed. It is this rollercoaster response that can lead to feelings of jitteriness, irritability, and hunger.
However, when subjects consumed 110 calories of high quality soy protein, the results were significantly different. Blood sugar did not spike, nor did it plummet. Instead, it remained essentially level. The body's natural metabolic balance was undisturbed.
When choosing a soy protein supplement it should be made of or include the following: it should have at least 12 grams of protein per serving, and the protein itself should come from a natural vegetarian protein source, it should be naturally cholesterol free, it should not contain any saturated fat, and it should only contain 1 gram of total fat per serving.
Your high quality soy protein supplement should meet 50% of your daily needs for calcium and your soy protein supplement should not have any artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors, or preservatives added to it. And finally your soy protein supplement should also be kosher certified and come with a money-back guarantee
How Do Vegetarians and Vegans Get Enough Protein
Vegetarians and vegans field the question of "How do you get enough protein" every time an acquaintance discovers our eating habits. I occasionally answer with a cynical question of my own: "What do you do with your excess protein?" For the sake of our health and fitness, however, let's ensure that we have an answer for the first question. I'll discuss the cynical question in a later article.
Before considering the many sources of protein available for vegetarians and vegans, let's first answer another more basic question - How much protein does an adult need for gaining and maintaining the best state of health and fitness? "Granted, because of their higher caloric needs, more active people have higher protein needs. (I would like to see more vegetarians and vegans with commitments to fitness, so that we can banish the unfortunate stereotype of sickly, feeble types that dissuade so many from the vegetarian / vegan lifestyle.
That's another topic that deserves its own article.) Much of the information surrounding protein needs can be traced to the meat and dairy industries which have an obvious financial interest in convincing people of a need to consume more meat or dairy. Remember the food pyramid? It exists in its form due to the lobbying of these industries.
Per the World Health Organization, only 5% of total daily calories need to come from protein. The National Research Council reports a slightly higher need of 8%. Each of these requirements includes a safety margin to include individuals with higher needs and is a target for robust health, not a minimum target for survival. Presuming a daily caloric intake of 3,000 calories for an average sized man, this means that only 150 calories need to come from protein to meet the WHO recommendation. At 4 calories per gram, this translates as 37.5 grams. Even if we double these recommendations to 10% for an additional safety margin accounting for the very active lifestyles of fitness-oriented individuals, the daily requirements is still only 300 calories or 75 grams of daily protein for an average man.
These protein requirements are easily met with a vegetarian or vegan diet. For example, a breakfast serving of ½ cup of oatmeal, a lunch serving of 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and a dinner serving of 2 ounces of pasta each contain 7 grams of protein. These 3 portions account for only 560 calories, less than 20% of daily caloric intake, but yield more than half of the daily WHO protein recommendation. The remaining 2,440 calories may then be comprised of foods that average a protein to calorie ratio of only 2.7% to yield the remaining 16.5 grams of proteins. Guess what? As the following sample listing shows, virtually every plant food has a sufficient protein to calorie rate to provide the remaining protein: Lettuce (34%); Potatoes (11%); Peanuts (18%); Brown rice (8%); Kidney beans (26%); Spinach (49%); Green peas (30%); Banana (5%); and Apple (1%).
To provide perspective to the above recommendations, consider that humans grow their fastest during the first 2 years of life. Our natural diet during these years is breast milk. Breast milk is only 6% protein. Granted, infants are largely sedentary, with their energy intake focused almost exclusively on growth. As they age, however, infants' protein needs decrease as the needs from their increased activity are more than met by the reduced needs with a slowdown in growth rates.
A quick glance around at virtually any gathering of adults provides all the proof needed that getting too much protein is far more likely to happen than not getting enough. Excess protein in Western diets has resulted in severe obesity rates, higher incidences of diabetes and diseases of the heart, kidneys and other organs as well as rates of osteoporosis. Only people who don't eat enough or have digestive disorders are at risk of protein deficiencies. The rest of us can easily consume enough protein to support an active lifestyle by eating a balanced diet entirely comprised of plant derived foods.
Before considering the many sources of protein available for vegetarians and vegans, let's first answer another more basic question - How much protein does an adult need for gaining and maintaining the best state of health and fitness? "Granted, because of their higher caloric needs, more active people have higher protein needs. (I would like to see more vegetarians and vegans with commitments to fitness, so that we can banish the unfortunate stereotype of sickly, feeble types that dissuade so many from the vegetarian / vegan lifestyle.
That's another topic that deserves its own article.) Much of the information surrounding protein needs can be traced to the meat and dairy industries which have an obvious financial interest in convincing people of a need to consume more meat or dairy. Remember the food pyramid? It exists in its form due to the lobbying of these industries.
Per the World Health Organization, only 5% of total daily calories need to come from protein. The National Research Council reports a slightly higher need of 8%. Each of these requirements includes a safety margin to include individuals with higher needs and is a target for robust health, not a minimum target for survival. Presuming a daily caloric intake of 3,000 calories for an average sized man, this means that only 150 calories need to come from protein to meet the WHO recommendation. At 4 calories per gram, this translates as 37.5 grams. Even if we double these recommendations to 10% for an additional safety margin accounting for the very active lifestyles of fitness-oriented individuals, the daily requirements is still only 300 calories or 75 grams of daily protein for an average man.
These protein requirements are easily met with a vegetarian or vegan diet. For example, a breakfast serving of ½ cup of oatmeal, a lunch serving of 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and a dinner serving of 2 ounces of pasta each contain 7 grams of protein. These 3 portions account for only 560 calories, less than 20% of daily caloric intake, but yield more than half of the daily WHO protein recommendation. The remaining 2,440 calories may then be comprised of foods that average a protein to calorie ratio of only 2.7% to yield the remaining 16.5 grams of proteins. Guess what? As the following sample listing shows, virtually every plant food has a sufficient protein to calorie rate to provide the remaining protein: Lettuce (34%); Potatoes (11%); Peanuts (18%); Brown rice (8%); Kidney beans (26%); Spinach (49%); Green peas (30%); Banana (5%); and Apple (1%).
To provide perspective to the above recommendations, consider that humans grow their fastest during the first 2 years of life. Our natural diet during these years is breast milk. Breast milk is only 6% protein. Granted, infants are largely sedentary, with their energy intake focused almost exclusively on growth. As they age, however, infants' protein needs decrease as the needs from their increased activity are more than met by the reduced needs with a slowdown in growth rates.
A quick glance around at virtually any gathering of adults provides all the proof needed that getting too much protein is far more likely to happen than not getting enough. Excess protein in Western diets has resulted in severe obesity rates, higher incidences of diabetes and diseases of the heart, kidneys and other organs as well as rates of osteoporosis. Only people who don't eat enough or have digestive disorders are at risk of protein deficiencies. The rest of us can easily consume enough protein to support an active lifestyle by eating a balanced diet entirely comprised of plant derived foods.
Why Do People Eat Vegetables?
When talking about healthy diet, you cannot ignore fruits and vegetables, which are good sources of fiber that are required by our body. Fiber is good at lowering blood cholesterol, which will in turn reduce the risk of heart disease.
However, people eat vegetables for different reasons. For instance, George, a 54-year-old man, has his wonderful reasons for eating vegetables. He chose to be vegetarian since he was 28 not because of health or religious issues.
Why he does not eat meat is that he felt that eating meat is very inefficient because human beings have to feed lots of plant food to the other animals which we later eat. Plant-based diets are more efficient since we eat plants directly. This also means that more food available for people without enough food. Is his argument valid? It is up to you to judge.
Nevertheless, he does admit many studies have linked animal-based foods to most of the health problems like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and some cancers.
For example, research showed that vegetables like red onions, chili peppers, carrots, cruciferous vegetables, berries, garlic, and turmeric are anti-cancer vegetables. It is also believed that garlic can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in humans.
Another interesting research, published online by the British Medical Journal, showed that children with high IQs are more likely to be vegetarians when they grow up. The researchers claimed that these findings were consistent with other studies showing people who are more intelligent tend to eat a healthier diet and exercise more.
They further said that there is quite a lot of evidence linking vegetarianism to a lower risk of heart disease. Vegetarians tend to have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. They do have a lower risk of dying from coronary heart disease.
Of more than 8000 men and women aged 30, who's IQs were measured when they were in 1910, more than 33 percent of these subjects described themselves as vegetarians but said they ate white meat and fish. Just over four percent were strict vegetarians and 2.5 percent were vegans, who eat no animal products at all, including eggs and dairy products.
Whether you want to show that you are smart or for whatever reasons you believe, eating vegetables do benefit you in many ways. It is recommended that at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day to help prevent heart disease.
However, people eat vegetables for different reasons. For instance, George, a 54-year-old man, has his wonderful reasons for eating vegetables. He chose to be vegetarian since he was 28 not because of health or religious issues.
Why he does not eat meat is that he felt that eating meat is very inefficient because human beings have to feed lots of plant food to the other animals which we later eat. Plant-based diets are more efficient since we eat plants directly. This also means that more food available for people without enough food. Is his argument valid? It is up to you to judge.
Nevertheless, he does admit many studies have linked animal-based foods to most of the health problems like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and some cancers.
For example, research showed that vegetables like red onions, chili peppers, carrots, cruciferous vegetables, berries, garlic, and turmeric are anti-cancer vegetables. It is also believed that garlic can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in humans.
Another interesting research, published online by the British Medical Journal, showed that children with high IQs are more likely to be vegetarians when they grow up. The researchers claimed that these findings were consistent with other studies showing people who are more intelligent tend to eat a healthier diet and exercise more.
They further said that there is quite a lot of evidence linking vegetarianism to a lower risk of heart disease. Vegetarians tend to have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels. They do have a lower risk of dying from coronary heart disease.
Of more than 8000 men and women aged 30, who's IQs were measured when they were in 1910, more than 33 percent of these subjects described themselves as vegetarians but said they ate white meat and fish. Just over four percent were strict vegetarians and 2.5 percent were vegans, who eat no animal products at all, including eggs and dairy products.
Whether you want to show that you are smart or for whatever reasons you believe, eating vegetables do benefit you in many ways. It is recommended that at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day to help prevent heart disease.
Trans Fat: The Dark Side of Fat
They're Called trans fatty acids and they're up to no good. In 2002, a report from the National Academy of Sciences stated "trans fatty acids are not essential and no Known Provide benefits to human health." Also That They reported These so-called "trans fats" not only Increase "bad cholesterol levels" (LDL), they want Also Decrease "good cholesterol" levels (HDL). This results in a substantial Increase in the risk of coronary heart disease.
Chemically, trans fats are not prone to oxidation. The essential, omega fats (Those Which fats are required for life) are highly prone to oxidation and go bad very Quickly. If You Were to put out a dish of raw walnuts, you would notice That they want begin to smell like oil paint after as little as a week. Because this is the essential fats are contained in the Becoming rancid nuts. Similarly, a stick of butter left at room temperature will of changed from rancid while a stick of margarine will of notes.
Trans fats are artificially manufactured through a process Called hydrogenation. This process was Used to turn vegetable oils into margarines and vegetable shortenings The, Which gained popularity in the early and mid-20th century. Advocates claimed Were These healthier than natural oils, saturated fats like butter. Economically, trans fats offer great benefits to the manufacturers and Retailers of products That are Made from Them. Unlike natural fats, trans fats cans sit on a shelf Almost indefinitely. Because of this, many processed foods made with trans fats Were Until recently Pls doing so Became a negative factor with educated consumers. However, there are still many products on the market Which are made with trans fats so be sure the read the nutritional information labels Pls help you purchase any pre-packaged food.
Animal products contain small amounts of trans fats, but the U.S. National Dairy Council That has asserted Different These trans fats are manufactured from the trans fats from vegetable oils. From These sources, trans fats May be less than 5% of the total fat content. Plants do not contain trans fats, but many processed foods do vegetarians. Because this is the make the products they want flavorful and longer lasting than natural products made with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Such factors make the decision to use trans fats in the processing of packaged foods and certainly an economic one not a nutritional one. Because of on their intended use, These products have trans fat-May at nearly 50% of the total fat content.
The consumption of trans fats has been linked to China Trust Also forms of cancer, according to a growing body of science. Because of this, and the other health risks associated with the consumption of trans fats, it is Important That you read ingredient labels and are aware of Nowhere Also May be found trans fats. Do your best to limit, or eliminate, your trans fats from the diet. Doing so will of help you protect your own health and the health of Those you know and love.
Chemically, trans fats are not prone to oxidation. The essential, omega fats (Those Which fats are required for life) are highly prone to oxidation and go bad very Quickly. If You Were to put out a dish of raw walnuts, you would notice That they want begin to smell like oil paint after as little as a week. Because this is the essential fats are contained in the Becoming rancid nuts. Similarly, a stick of butter left at room temperature will of changed from rancid while a stick of margarine will of notes.
Trans fats are artificially manufactured through a process Called hydrogenation. This process was Used to turn vegetable oils into margarines and vegetable shortenings The, Which gained popularity in the early and mid-20th century. Advocates claimed Were These healthier than natural oils, saturated fats like butter. Economically, trans fats offer great benefits to the manufacturers and Retailers of products That are Made from Them. Unlike natural fats, trans fats cans sit on a shelf Almost indefinitely. Because of this, many processed foods made with trans fats Were Until recently Pls doing so Became a negative factor with educated consumers. However, there are still many products on the market Which are made with trans fats so be sure the read the nutritional information labels Pls help you purchase any pre-packaged food.
Animal products contain small amounts of trans fats, but the U.S. National Dairy Council That has asserted Different These trans fats are manufactured from the trans fats from vegetable oils. From These sources, trans fats May be less than 5% of the total fat content. Plants do not contain trans fats, but many processed foods do vegetarians. Because this is the make the products they want flavorful and longer lasting than natural products made with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Such factors make the decision to use trans fats in the processing of packaged foods and certainly an economic one not a nutritional one. Because of on their intended use, These products have trans fat-May at nearly 50% of the total fat content.
The consumption of trans fats has been linked to China Trust Also forms of cancer, according to a growing body of science. Because of this, and the other health risks associated with the consumption of trans fats, it is Important That you read ingredient labels and are aware of Nowhere Also May be found trans fats. Do your best to limit, or eliminate, your trans fats from the diet. Doing so will of help you protect your own health and the health of Those you know and love.
Benefits of Walnuts
Walnuts May be a hard nut to crack but its health benefits are worth the effort. The newest buzz in the world of health care is the Omega-3 and walnuts deliver just that '. The Omega-3 content in walnuts is significantly higher compared to other nuts Pls. The Omega-3 fatty acids in walnuts are heart-friendly and are proven to lower LDL cholesterol. Walnuts boasts of an array of health benefits. This is the wonder nut Richest source of plant proteins Which is highly recommended for a vegetarian diet is low in Which proteins. USDA research shows even a simple habit of adding seven to nine walnuts to the daily diet improves memory.
37% of heart disease risk is lowered Pls people consume nuts more than four times per week. Polyphenols and antioxidants in walnuts help in fortifying the neural connections and improve cognitive skills. Walnuts are a rich source of Vitamin B, antioxidants, Omega-3, fiber and Vitamin E. Walnuts and crunchy nuts are tasty and easy to incorporate in your diet.
Should you but not get carried away by numerous health benefits Also Because they want are high in Calories. So instead of mindlessly adding it to your diet, it is wiser to swap walnuts with high-calorie foods. So instead of eating meat or cheese, you have a healthier option of having walnuts instead. Add it to you or breakfast cereal sprinkle it on your salad, use it in homemade cakes and Biscuits Roasted or have Them; Pls it comes to walnuts you are spoilt for choice. Doctors recommend you to consume on a daily basis 1.5oz, These sums up to 20 halves of the nut.
37% of heart disease risk is lowered Pls people consume nuts more than four times per week. Polyphenols and antioxidants in walnuts help in fortifying the neural connections and improve cognitive skills. Walnuts are a rich source of Vitamin B, antioxidants, Omega-3, fiber and Vitamin E. Walnuts and crunchy nuts are tasty and easy to incorporate in your diet.
Should you but not get carried away by numerous health benefits Also Because they want are high in Calories. So instead of mindlessly adding it to your diet, it is wiser to swap walnuts with high-calorie foods. So instead of eating meat or cheese, you have a healthier option of having walnuts instead. Add it to you or breakfast cereal sprinkle it on your salad, use it in homemade cakes and Biscuits Roasted or have Them; Pls it comes to walnuts you are spoilt for choice. Doctors recommend you to consume on a daily basis 1.5oz, These sums up to 20 halves of the nut.
Why Vitamins and Minerals Are Important to Your Body
From when I was in the lower classes I always heard my teacher say that Vitamins and minerals control the proper functioning of the body. With time, and after a lot of learning, I have realized that this is absolutely true. Vitamins are mainly gotten from the normal food that we eat, there are some foods that are richer in vitamins and minerals than others depending on the nature of that food. One cannot overlook the relationship between vitamins and minerals. vitamins are organic structures while minerals are inorganic; but they are both usually taken from plants that process them from the soil and through the process of photosynthesis. Very often the action of certain minerals is closely interconnected with that of specific vitamins; thus calcium, for instance, which is crucial in bone development and maintenance, is processed only in the presence of vitamin D3.
Vitamins and minerals are also important in improving the body's immune system since the body requires them for growth and development. Maybe you already know what a rich source of vitamin A carrots are, but these vegetables also bring an important mineral supplementation to one's diet too. Without vitamins and minerals life wouldn't be possible for plants either, which explains their richness of structure. Even if vitamins and minerals are necessary at all ages, it is nonetheless true that during the growth period of a human being, the body is excessively engaged and the need for nutrients is definitely higher than during old age.
Unprocessed foods like fruits and vegetables, whole bread, dairy products, fish, red and white meat are all rich sources of vitamins and minerals, ensuring the proper working of the body. It is important to note that, if you eat a balanced diet you will seldom need vitamins and minerals as supplements; but do not trick yourself into thinking that you'll get any of these substances by having junk food and cookies every day. Such products, like many others of the same sort are rich in fat and calories but they definitely offer very limited nutritional value. If you are a vegetarian or a vegan, then you may have some troubles with nutrition.
A balanced diet is important for a body to function properly. Different foods produce varying amounts of vitamins and minerals. Plants also produce varying amounts of vitamins at different stages of growth apart from B12 for example. Its important to note the fact that certain vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc and calcium are usually found in eggs, meat and fish. But then, vitamin B12, for example, is not present under vegetable form, it can only be taken from eggs and dairy products. You may also happen to find it in fortified cereals, but make sure to carefully read the label and find this mention in the instructions. Therefore, under such circumstances, the solution for maintaining a proper body system would be to administrate vitamins and minerals as supplements.
Vitamins and minerals are also important in improving the body's immune system since the body requires them for growth and development. Maybe you already know what a rich source of vitamin A carrots are, but these vegetables also bring an important mineral supplementation to one's diet too. Without vitamins and minerals life wouldn't be possible for plants either, which explains their richness of structure. Even if vitamins and minerals are necessary at all ages, it is nonetheless true that during the growth period of a human being, the body is excessively engaged and the need for nutrients is definitely higher than during old age.
Unprocessed foods like fruits and vegetables, whole bread, dairy products, fish, red and white meat are all rich sources of vitamins and minerals, ensuring the proper working of the body. It is important to note that, if you eat a balanced diet you will seldom need vitamins and minerals as supplements; but do not trick yourself into thinking that you'll get any of these substances by having junk food and cookies every day. Such products, like many others of the same sort are rich in fat and calories but they definitely offer very limited nutritional value. If you are a vegetarian or a vegan, then you may have some troubles with nutrition.
A balanced diet is important for a body to function properly. Different foods produce varying amounts of vitamins and minerals. Plants also produce varying amounts of vitamins at different stages of growth apart from B12 for example. Its important to note the fact that certain vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc and calcium are usually found in eggs, meat and fish. But then, vitamin B12, for example, is not present under vegetable form, it can only be taken from eggs and dairy products. You may also happen to find it in fortified cereals, but make sure to carefully read the label and find this mention in the instructions. Therefore, under such circumstances, the solution for maintaining a proper body system would be to administrate vitamins and minerals as supplements.
Veganism - Why People Choose to Become Vegans
There are many and varied reasons why people choose to remove animal by-products from their diets.
Animal Cruelty
One of the main reasons people choose to undertake a vegan lifestyle is because of the atrocious conditions which farm animals endure in factory farms.
Dairy Cows are made to produce 10-20 times more milk than they would normally. This is done by constantly impregnating the cow and taking the calves from the mother within a day or two of being born. Most of the male calves are slaughtered for veal or sent to meat-rearing farms, where they will spend the rest of their lives in dark enclosed areas. Female calves remain at the dairy to suffer the same fate as their mothers. Due to the unnatural load on their udders and concrete flooring, cows often have udder infections, pelvic and back problems, with no pain relief or medical care. Cows are known to be highly maternal animals and are revered by the Hindu religion as a being which represents sanctity of all life. Vegans realise that if they were to eat dairy products, they would be contributing to a very cruel and unnatural industry which is also ultimately supporting toward the meat industry.
Chickens bred in factory farms for the production of eggs, also suffer greatly at the hands of people. To ensure the chickens do not peck at each other in their tiny cages, chicks are 'de-beaked' (their beaks are seared off) with no anaesthetic or pain relief. Their toes are also cut off so they do not scratch at each other; normally they would scratch in dirt for worms, however factory farmed chickens do not have the opportunity to fulfill their natural behaviour of scratching in soil. Instead they live cramped inside metal cages, they live amongst their faeces, disease and dead chickens.
Factory farmed animals live unnatural lives, they do not breathe fresh air or stretch their legs, they are fed a diet of hazardous antibiotics, they do not interact with members of their own species as they would normally, they do not even have the basic right to rear their own offspring. Farm animals suffer immensely in factory farms; gone are the days when a farmer respected the animals which were his living. Corporations have now taken living, breathing creatures and turned them into nothing but a product, 'livestock' from which they can profiteer.
But vegans know that these animals are not products, they are not stock, they have feelings and needs just as we do. By becoming and being a vegan, a person effectively boycotts the cruel industry that is factory farming, and as veganism grows, we will ensure that atrocities toward farm animals do not continue.
Environmental Impact
"If anyone wants to save the planet, all they have to do is just stop eating meat. That's the single most important thing you could do. There is a direct relationship between eating meat and the environment. Quite simply, you can't be a meat-eating environmentalist. Sorry folks. " - Sir Paul McCartney, England, musician, born 1942
Factory farming is a major contributor to global warming, as large numbers of cattle bred for meat creates a large amount of methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, which is damaging to our ozone layer. The fertilizers and pesticides used in factory farming, as well as the waste from farm animals and fish / prawn farms, cause water pollution, destroying the natural environment and killing marine life. The manure also contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to acid rain.
In the oceans, wild fish numbers are dwindling as a result of human ignorance and indifference towards the sea. Fishing methods such as trawling rape the ocean of life. Long lining, a method of fishing where up to 2,500 baited hooks on fishing lines are used, and shark finning have a devastating effect on our aquatic environment. It is believed that up to 100 million sharks are killed annually for their fins. Wild fish are also further depleted as they are taken to feed farmed fish.
World meat production has increased rapidly over recent years and the population of farm animals now exceeds our human population by 3 to 1. Over 21 billion animals are now bred each year for consumption purposes. Farm animals consume more protein and calories then they produce, therefore animals reared for food is an unsustainable use of resources. Many vegans understand that besides the environmental impact from the gases and waste, the production of meat and dairy uses vastly more energy, water and land, than the growing of crops. The amount of food and water used to feed all of these animals could instead be used to ensure an end to world poverty.
Although it is believed that farm animals occupy less land than plants and trees grown for food, the land used to feed these farm animals is not taken into account. Imagine how much land you would need to feed farm animals numbering three times our human population! 'Ghost Acres' is a term used for the crops that are grown as food for farm animals in developing countries. Most of the crops used by factory farms are grown in countries that are in a state of privation. Although living in poverty, farmers in developing countries are encouraged to use what land and resources they have for financial benefit.
As consumers we can reduce our impact on the environment by not supporting factory farming and commercial fishing. Many activists argue that a vegan diet is necessary to become an effective environmentalist and environmental advocate, be it for the land or sea.
Health Benefits
"Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances of survival for life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet." - Albert Einstein, Germany, physicist, awarded Nobel Prize in 1921, 1879-1955
A varied vegan diet reduces the risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke, protects against cancers, prevents loss of vision, osteoporosis and assists lowered blood pressure. Plant based diets help to reduce cholesterol and saturated fat, and to increase carotenoids, healthy fibre, vitamin C and folate. Independent scientific studies state that a diet based on the principles of veganism is perfectly adequate for good health throughout one's life.
An unbalanced vegan diet however can lead to a deficiency in protein, essential fatty acids, iron, vitamin B, zinc and calcium; all of which can have a detrimental effect on your health. These risks can be mitigated simply by eating a balanced diet, or by consuming specific foods and supplements.
Meat is known to cause obesity, heart disease, colon cancer, breast cancer and botulism. Eating too much meat and not enough vegetables can create excessive uric acid, which can cause gout, Bright's Disease, rheumatism, gallstones and kidney stones. Large quantities of iron can also increase the chances of contracting some cancers such as colorectal and lung cancer. Eating processed meats is known to be the second largest cause of cancer in humans worldwide (smoking is still the biggest cause).
Most meats and dairy produce are also high in fat, have artificial antibiotics and growth hormones, and are low in nutritional value. Populations that eat meat only are known to die at earlier ages in life, and have high incidences of osteoporosis due to a lack of calcium, which is plentiful in green leafy vegetables, dried fruit and some nuts.
Vegans who follow a balanced diet have the opportunity to benefit from the many vitamins and minerals which a plant and nut based diet provides, decrease their chances of serious illness and have an increased life span.
More Reasons
Apart from the 'Big 3' discussed above, other reasons why people choose to become vegan are many and varied. Many people are born into or convert to a vegan diet due to religion. Many religions espouse a philosphy of non-violence and that all animals are created equal and therefore have equal and sacred rights to life. The Indian Jain religion is strictly vegetarian, and the Hindus of India contribute the largest number of vegetarians in the world - 200,000, 000 (200 million) at the last guestimate.
In many developing countries and in sectors of some developed nations, poor people have very real financial reasons for not eating meat. Animal flesh tends to be an expensive luxury when compared in price to fruit and vegetables.
Then there are those amongst us that just can't stomach the taste or thought of eating animal flesh ... a fairly reasonable perspective.
Whatever the reason, we applaud all those vegans around the world that have made the compassionate and selfless moral choice of putting the needs and rights of other animals firs
Animal Cruelty
One of the main reasons people choose to undertake a vegan lifestyle is because of the atrocious conditions which farm animals endure in factory farms.
Dairy Cows are made to produce 10-20 times more milk than they would normally. This is done by constantly impregnating the cow and taking the calves from the mother within a day or two of being born. Most of the male calves are slaughtered for veal or sent to meat-rearing farms, where they will spend the rest of their lives in dark enclosed areas. Female calves remain at the dairy to suffer the same fate as their mothers. Due to the unnatural load on their udders and concrete flooring, cows often have udder infections, pelvic and back problems, with no pain relief or medical care. Cows are known to be highly maternal animals and are revered by the Hindu religion as a being which represents sanctity of all life. Vegans realise that if they were to eat dairy products, they would be contributing to a very cruel and unnatural industry which is also ultimately supporting toward the meat industry.
Chickens bred in factory farms for the production of eggs, also suffer greatly at the hands of people. To ensure the chickens do not peck at each other in their tiny cages, chicks are 'de-beaked' (their beaks are seared off) with no anaesthetic or pain relief. Their toes are also cut off so they do not scratch at each other; normally they would scratch in dirt for worms, however factory farmed chickens do not have the opportunity to fulfill their natural behaviour of scratching in soil. Instead they live cramped inside metal cages, they live amongst their faeces, disease and dead chickens.
Factory farmed animals live unnatural lives, they do not breathe fresh air or stretch their legs, they are fed a diet of hazardous antibiotics, they do not interact with members of their own species as they would normally, they do not even have the basic right to rear their own offspring. Farm animals suffer immensely in factory farms; gone are the days when a farmer respected the animals which were his living. Corporations have now taken living, breathing creatures and turned them into nothing but a product, 'livestock' from which they can profiteer.
But vegans know that these animals are not products, they are not stock, they have feelings and needs just as we do. By becoming and being a vegan, a person effectively boycotts the cruel industry that is factory farming, and as veganism grows, we will ensure that atrocities toward farm animals do not continue.
Environmental Impact
"If anyone wants to save the planet, all they have to do is just stop eating meat. That's the single most important thing you could do. There is a direct relationship between eating meat and the environment. Quite simply, you can't be a meat-eating environmentalist. Sorry folks. " - Sir Paul McCartney, England, musician, born 1942
Factory farming is a major contributor to global warming, as large numbers of cattle bred for meat creates a large amount of methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, which is damaging to our ozone layer. The fertilizers and pesticides used in factory farming, as well as the waste from farm animals and fish / prawn farms, cause water pollution, destroying the natural environment and killing marine life. The manure also contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to acid rain.
In the oceans, wild fish numbers are dwindling as a result of human ignorance and indifference towards the sea. Fishing methods such as trawling rape the ocean of life. Long lining, a method of fishing where up to 2,500 baited hooks on fishing lines are used, and shark finning have a devastating effect on our aquatic environment. It is believed that up to 100 million sharks are killed annually for their fins. Wild fish are also further depleted as they are taken to feed farmed fish.
World meat production has increased rapidly over recent years and the population of farm animals now exceeds our human population by 3 to 1. Over 21 billion animals are now bred each year for consumption purposes. Farm animals consume more protein and calories then they produce, therefore animals reared for food is an unsustainable use of resources. Many vegans understand that besides the environmental impact from the gases and waste, the production of meat and dairy uses vastly more energy, water and land, than the growing of crops. The amount of food and water used to feed all of these animals could instead be used to ensure an end to world poverty.
Although it is believed that farm animals occupy less land than plants and trees grown for food, the land used to feed these farm animals is not taken into account. Imagine how much land you would need to feed farm animals numbering three times our human population! 'Ghost Acres' is a term used for the crops that are grown as food for farm animals in developing countries. Most of the crops used by factory farms are grown in countries that are in a state of privation. Although living in poverty, farmers in developing countries are encouraged to use what land and resources they have for financial benefit.
As consumers we can reduce our impact on the environment by not supporting factory farming and commercial fishing. Many activists argue that a vegan diet is necessary to become an effective environmentalist and environmental advocate, be it for the land or sea.
Health Benefits
"Nothing will benefit human health and increase chances of survival for life on earth as much as the evolution to a vegetarian diet." - Albert Einstein, Germany, physicist, awarded Nobel Prize in 1921, 1879-1955
A varied vegan diet reduces the risk of heart disease, heart attack or stroke, protects against cancers, prevents loss of vision, osteoporosis and assists lowered blood pressure. Plant based diets help to reduce cholesterol and saturated fat, and to increase carotenoids, healthy fibre, vitamin C and folate. Independent scientific studies state that a diet based on the principles of veganism is perfectly adequate for good health throughout one's life.
An unbalanced vegan diet however can lead to a deficiency in protein, essential fatty acids, iron, vitamin B, zinc and calcium; all of which can have a detrimental effect on your health. These risks can be mitigated simply by eating a balanced diet, or by consuming specific foods and supplements.
Meat is known to cause obesity, heart disease, colon cancer, breast cancer and botulism. Eating too much meat and not enough vegetables can create excessive uric acid, which can cause gout, Bright's Disease, rheumatism, gallstones and kidney stones. Large quantities of iron can also increase the chances of contracting some cancers such as colorectal and lung cancer. Eating processed meats is known to be the second largest cause of cancer in humans worldwide (smoking is still the biggest cause).
Most meats and dairy produce are also high in fat, have artificial antibiotics and growth hormones, and are low in nutritional value. Populations that eat meat only are known to die at earlier ages in life, and have high incidences of osteoporosis due to a lack of calcium, which is plentiful in green leafy vegetables, dried fruit and some nuts.
Vegans who follow a balanced diet have the opportunity to benefit from the many vitamins and minerals which a plant and nut based diet provides, decrease their chances of serious illness and have an increased life span.
More Reasons
Apart from the 'Big 3' discussed above, other reasons why people choose to become vegan are many and varied. Many people are born into or convert to a vegan diet due to religion. Many religions espouse a philosphy of non-violence and that all animals are created equal and therefore have equal and sacred rights to life. The Indian Jain religion is strictly vegetarian, and the Hindus of India contribute the largest number of vegetarians in the world - 200,000, 000 (200 million) at the last guestimate.
In many developing countries and in sectors of some developed nations, poor people have very real financial reasons for not eating meat. Animal flesh tends to be an expensive luxury when compared in price to fruit and vegetables.
Then there are those amongst us that just can't stomach the taste or thought of eating animal flesh ... a fairly reasonable perspective.
Whatever the reason, we applaud all those vegans around the world that have made the compassionate and selfless moral choice of putting the needs and rights of other animals firs
Langganan:
Postingan (Atom)
