There are many misconceptions about vegetarianism and veganism that make it hard for many of us to try changing our eating habits. Thus, it is important to be more open about this topic and stop believing the different vegetarian diet myths we thought were true. This way, we will be able to improve our food consumption habits while still being able to enjoy a healthy and nutritional meal.
To begin with, there is a common misconception about weight loss being guaranteed when following vegetarian diets. Also, we used to think that natural sugar was just as unhealthy as added sugar, which isn’t really true. Some people tend to think that veggie-based diets do not offer much variety, and this is also not true. Lastly, one of the most harmful vegetarian diet myths is that such a diet cannot be healthy for kids and teens.
Vegetarian Diet Means Weight Loss
Whenever we decide to start a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is almost certain that we will lose weight. As a matter of fact, a 2016 study from the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that those who follow vegetarian diets do lose weight more significantly than those who don’t. Nonetheless, there is no guarantee, and if weight loss is one’s goal, planning your meals accordingly is key. This is because there are plenty of vegetarian foods like cookies and chips that aren’t necessarily healthy.
Fruit Sugar Is Not Healthy Sugar
While we all know that consuming too much sugar isn’t the healthiest choice, natural and artificial sugars are different. Therefore, we shouldn’t worry about adding plenty of fruit to our vegetarian recipes. Sugar we can find in cakes, cookies, candy, and fizzy drinks are typically added for extra sweetness and taste. However, the natural sugar fructose we can find in fruit comes with many vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
There Isn’t Much Variety in Vegetarian Diets
One of the most common vegetarian diet myths is that a variety of dishes and recipes is extremely boring. However, there are so many different options beyond tofu and vegetables that are as delicious as they are healthy. For example, we can obtain proteins from lentils, beans, and other vegetables. Besides, there is always room for creativity and experimentation with unconventional fruits and vegetables, adding other ingredients that are not usual for you. This way, you will find that there are just as many options available that you didn’t know.
Vegetarianism Is Actually Harmful to Kids and Teens
For many, opting not to follow a vegetarian diet is a decision based on whether or not they have kids and their ages if they do. There is a huge misconception about vegetarianism not being a healthy diet for children and teenagers that concerns many parents. Even when we understand why they would worry, this myth couldn’t be furthest from the truth. A vegetarian or vegan diet can be healthy and nutritional either way when we plan it and serve it adequately.
There are many benefits that come from veggie-based diets, despite popular belief saying otherwise. To begin with, children and teens are at a lower risk of being obese or overweight when under vegetarianism. Besides, the intake of additional vitamins and supplements is essential for any developing kid, regardless of their diet.
