The Truth Behind Popular Vegetarian Myths

By Kelly Turner - DietsInReview.com

Living as a vegetarian doesn't mean eating 'bunny food' and tofu every day. There are many myths surrounding vegetarianism; everything from how healthy being a vegetarian is for the human body all the way down to how to find meatless nutrient substitutions. Since October is Vegetarian Awareness Month, we're going to clear the air on some of the biggest vegetarian myths out there.

MYTH: Vegetarians don't eat enough protein.

FACT: Animal proteins aren't the only protein sources. Protein is found in vegetarian-friendly foods like beans, whole grains, and vegetables. Some rich sources of vegetarian protein are tempeh, quinoa, almonds, brown rice, and pinto beans. In addition, most people, vegetarian or not, get more protein than is recommended in a day, so going out of your way to consume more protein isn't necessary.

Try this recipe: Quinoa Tabouleh


MYTH: Meat proteins are healthier than plant proteins.

FACT: Protein is protein is protein. A popular theory exists that plants are incomplete proteins, which means they should be combined with other foods to complete the protein chain. This theory, however, has met scrutiny, with many supporting claiming that they are, indeed, complete proteins already. Additionally, when you consume meat for protein, unnecessary saturated fat is also consumed. While there is room for some saturated fat in our diets, avoiding sources that contain large amounts is encouraged.

Try this recipe: Slow Cooker Mexican-Style Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers


MYTH: A vegetarian diet is too low in calories.


FACT: Many have made the switch to vegetarianism as a way to lose weight or reduce calories. Perhaps it's the term 'diet' that makes them think of it as a weight loss gimmick. The reality is that the word 'diet' is what you eat. If you ate yarn, that would be your diet. This is further perpetuated by the thought that vegetarians only eat low-calorie, water-rich fruits and vegetables. While fresh produce is a major contributor to a vegetarian diet (and should be for everyone's diet) eating too much of any food can cause weight gain. A calorie is a calorie, whether it's from a plum or a pizza, so even vegetarians must watch their caloric intake.

Try this recipe: Chilled Asparagus Soup with Lemon Pesto


MYTH: All vegetarians are animal-rights activists.

FACT: While some people choose to boycott meat because they disagree with how animals are treated and refuse to support animal cruelty, some vegetarians go meatless because they can't trust the meat industry to provide safe meat, believe that a vegetarian diet supports long-term health, or some simply don't like the way meat tastes.

Try this recipe: Veggie Potstickers

What other vegetarian myths have you heard, or have believed? Are you a vegetarian? What made you adopt the diet?

October is Vegetarian Awareness Month. Learn more about this lifestyle at DietsInReview.com:

Video: How to be a Vegetarian

Celebrate National Vegetarian Awareness Month by Improving Your Health

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