Vegetarian Diets - Are they healthy?

The main concern for a vegetarian diet has always been whether it is able to provide adequate nutrition particularly with regards to the protein content. However in recent years these concerns have faded and a vegetarian diet is being looked upon with greater respect mainly in its role of preventing and treating diseases.

Here are some benefits of eating a vegetarian diet -

• Vegetarians are less obese as their diet includes a greater consumption of vegetables and fibres and a lower fat intake.
• As a vege diet includes a lot of fibres , vegetarians have less blood cholesterol and therefore a lower incidence of heart diseases.
• A vegetarian has a lower risk of cancers than a non- vegetarian as their diet includes more fibres, more fruits and vegetables and low fat intake . Also they get the beneficial phytochemicals like isoflavones from plant products.
• A vegetarian also has a lower rate of hypertension than a non- vegetarian.
• A low body weight and high fibre intake also improves blood sugar levels . Hence, a vegetarian diet decrease your risk of diabetes.

Age well - Eat right

Ageing is inevitable. But if preventive measures are taken, many of the degenerative steps of ageing can be prevented or atleast slowed down.

Did you know that one - third to one - half of health problems are related to our diet. It is a fact that what we eat is what we are. So, it can be safely said that proper nutrition is the best stratergy for ageing well.

Here are a few tips which everyone can follow -

1. Make sure to drink atleast 6 to 8 glasses of water, juice or other non-alcoholic drinks every day as I have previously said that water is the elixir of life.
2. Takedaily walks of atleast 30 minutes os exercise regularly as it helps preserve muscle strength and improves apetite and mood.
3. Read the labels on food packages while buying. This will help you make healthier food choices.
4. Eat atleast 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Choose brightly coloured fruits and vegetables. These will help protect against heart diseases and cancer.
5. Make meals pleasurable. Turn on your favourite music to improve your mood.
6. Take B12 supplements as you grow older. It is essential for red blood cell production and cell replication.
7. Eat fiber to prevent constipation.
8. Follow a vegetarian diet and engage in in a prudent lifestyle.