Foods To Eat For A Healthy Vegetarian Diet
by Punctual AbstractThere are clear health benefits of a well-balanced vegetarian diet. But nutrient deficiencies cause by vegetarian diets created “on the fly” can result in nutritional deficiencies that can result in decreased brain function and even weight gain!
This advice is based on information provided by Vegetarian Nutrition, a practice group of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. For vegetarian diet advice catered to your specific needs, make sure to consult with your physician or a registered dietitian!
Calcium
To meet daily calcium requirements, vegetarians should consume a variety of foods high in calcium – not just dairy. Almonds and almond butter are both good sources of calcium, as are black beans, soy beans, chickpeas and kale. Good liquid sources of calcium include milk (of course) as well as fortified plant-based milks, like soy or almond.
Iron
To meet daily iron requirements in a meat-free diet, vegetarians must consume a wide variety of iron-rich foods. Here are a few. Iron-fortified breakfast cereals are a great way to start your day, as are eggs, which are also high in iron. Dark, leafy greens like Swiss chard and spinach and nearly any kind of bean are great sources of iron.
Protein
A balanced vegetarian diet can deliver just as much protein as a meat lover’s diet – you’ve just got to select the right foods. Nuts, whole grains, legumes like lentils, peas and peanuts, dairy products and soy products are all packed with protein.
B12
Vitamin B12 is found in all animal-based foods, including diary products and eggs. B12 shouldn’t be a concern for vegetarians that eat these items. Vegans, on the other hand, may find it hard to get their daily recommended dose of B12 and may want to consider a vitamin B12 (cobalamin) supplement or foods fortified with B12.
Vitamin D
Many dairy products are fortified with vitamin D in the United States, and that’s because there are few food items that are naturally high in the nutrient. Vegans are at risk of Vitamin D deficiencies, which can leave them chronically tired and fatigued, much like B12 deficiencies. Vegetarians can avoid vitamin D deficiency by drinking vitamin D fortified milk.
Corporate Wellness at Punctual Abstract
Punctual Abstract cares about its employees, and that’s why we partnered with Rack City Gym to create a Corporate Wellness Program. We give our team members all the tools they need to meet the exercise and nutritional needs, and the result has been happier, healthier employees and a real boost in productivity. Go figure! To learn more, visit our homepage or contact us directly at our Harvey, LA office.