Our relationship with food goes beyond nutrition. It is also one of joy, culture and connection. Over the past few year, more and more people have been searching for diets that are both healthy and sustainable. The flexitarian diet is one of the most popular among these. It’s not purely vegetarian, not consistently non-vegetarian. Rather, it’s about eating predominantly plant-based foods and including modest portions of meat and other animal products. That makes it easy to track and applicable to nearly everyone.
What is a Flexitarian Diet?
The term flexitarian is a combination of two words: “flexible” and “vegetarian.” This means you don’t have to quit meat and fish entirely, but rather eat them less frequently. The centerpiece of your meals are vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes (including peanuts) and seeds. Meat, chicken, fish, eggs and dairy are indulged in once in a while; on the weekend. This balance is how people stay healthy without feeling deprived.
Benefits of Flexitarian Dining
1. Improves Overall Health
A flexitarian diet particularly limits processed and fatty meats. It promotes fresh and natural foods, abundant in vitamins minerals and fibre. This is part of lowering the risk for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and even some cancers.
2. Aids in Weight Management
More plant-based meals means less calories and less unhealthy fat. Meanwhile, those same vegetables and whole grains help fend off hunger pangs. This can make it easier to keep your weight on, or take it off.
3. Good for the Planet
Plant-based foods require less water and land than meat products. Eating less meat results in lower carbon emissions and a healthier planet.
4. Easier to Follow than Strict Diets
And unlike vegan or vegetarian diets, you don’t have to eliminate entire food groups. You can indulge your favourite non-veg delicacies every now and then. This makes it more likely for you to stick with the diet in the long-run.”
Tips for Practicing Flexitarian Dining
Start Small
You don’t have to cut out meat at once. Start by incorporating one or two plant-based meals each week. And gradually increase the number as you become comfortable.
Choose Quality over Quantity
If you are going to eat meat or fish, make it lean and high quality. Skip the processed meats (no sausages or salami, either).
Load Up on Plants
Vegetables and fruits should take up at least half your plate. Throw in beans, lentils and whole grains for protein and stamina.
Try New Recipes
Get to know different cuisines that rely more on vegetables and spices. Here, Indian, Mediterranean and Asian dishes have a plethora of flavorful plant-based options.
Balance is Key
The flexitarian diet is not a set of rules. It’s about balance. Dig into your favourites without guilt, but be healthy most of the time.
Sample Flexitarian Meal Ideas
- Breakfast: Oats with fruits and nuts + 1 spoon of honey.
- Lunch: Brown rice, with a bowl of dal, stir-fried vegetables and salad.
- Dinner: Grilled fish with vegetables roasted in olive oil.
- Snacks: Carrot sticks with hummus or one ounce of almonds.
FAQs:
Q1. Is the flexitarian diet good for you?
Yes, it is generally safe and appropriate for many individuals. Specific health conditions are always good for a consult with a doctor before making big changes.
Q2. Can I lose weight on a flexitarian diet?
Yes, a lot of people slim down happily by default – because they are consuming more fibre-rich low-calorie foods.
Q3. Should I count calories on this diet?
No, we’re all about eating whole and natural. You don’t need to count calories if you’re eating healthy meals.
Q4. How much meat is OK to eat on this diet?
There are no strict rules. You can have meat once or twice a week, or less, if that’s your preference.
Q5. Is the flexitarian diet expensive?
Not at all. Indeed, eating more local vegetables, fruits and grains can be cheaper than reaching for the global avocado.
