Flexitarianism is the compromise that focuses on meat-moderation
For the sustainability savvy vegetarianism seems to be the only choice for an environmentally-friendly diet. In addition to the direct health benefits of cutting out meat, such as lower cholesterol, vegetarianism also reduces the amount of land it takes to grow your food. However, many cultures have historically eaten meat, so cutting it out is a big step for people engaged in their communities.
Being vegetarian also means that you have to be conscious of the nutritional value of the foods you eat, which can be more effort than people are willing to put in to their daily diets. The health benefits of vegetarianism are proven when contrasted to the effects of the average American diet, which traditionally includes more processed meat, oils, and fats than a human should realistically eat.So, what’s the solution? Flexitarianism is a good option, which focuses on cutting back on meat as opposed to omitting it from your diet entirely.
This can be as easy as consciously choosing the vegetarian option in a restaurant, or picking one meal a week to go meat-free. Alternately, try giving meatless Mondays a shot. For the ambitious, weekday vegetarianism is a way to promote a plant-based lifestyle while still having the go-ahead to savour a Sunday roast. Flexitarianism cuts down on the health risks associated with excessive meat consumption, while still maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet with all the vitamins and minerals associated with optimal health.Protein, vitamin B, vitamin E, iron, zinc, and magnesium are all important nutrients associated with meat. Protein and magnesium help build bones and muscle, which can be critical for maintenance of good health later in life when these physical attributes start to decline. Iron is critical for the transmission of oxygen in the blood and prevents anaemia, which is especially important for menstruating women. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and seafood may also reduce the risk of heart disease. And for the meatatarians that can’t sacrifice their lifestyles, buying from local, cruelty-free farms can also promote sustainability and good farming practices, reducing the carbon cost of transport.
While it is important for some to eat meat, it’s valuable to moderate the amount you consume. In this case, less is more, and choosing to eat vegetarian sometimes can be just as important for your health as it is for reducing your carbon footprint.
Photo by Alora Griffiths/ The Ontarion