A Vegetarian Eating Style

We have developed specific eating guidelines for people who wish to follow vegetarian or vegan eating plans. Obviously, this calls for some modification in the food choices by eliminating meat and poultry, and in some cases, eliminating eggs, dairy products, and any animal foods. To do this while on a weight reduction plan requires some changes in the protein content, so it's not a good idea to simply eliminate the animal foods without balancing the other foods to make up for the loss of protein. Vegetarian diets are associated with a reduced risk in heart disease and other diseases, and are generally very high in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and anti-oxidants. However, I have seen plenty of people who follow a vegetarian diet, but are not making the most nutritional food choices. For example, those who eliminate meat and replace it with high fat dairy products are making a big mistake. Their diets become higher in saturated fat and cholesterol and more unhealthful! Likewise, some vegetarians pay no attention to the quality or quantity of baked goods, refined and processed foods, and their diets are no more healthy than a non-vegetarian. The key to eating healthfully on a vegetarian diet is to choose a lot of colorful vegetables and fruits, and to make sure that plenty of beans and  whole grains are included. In addition, dairy products, if eaten, should be the low fat variety!