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Have you considered going vegetarian because of the many popular weight loss books that claim going vegetarian will ensure weight loss? Is there any truth to such claims?

Most people imagine vegetarians eating only super-healthy, low-calorie meals consisting of lots of fresh, organic produce. The truth is, going vegetarian only means not eating meat products, which still leaves you vulnerable to weight-gaining eating habits. Perhaps you think tightening the perimeters such that you go vegan, which means not eating meat, eggs, or dairy products, will solve the problem, but that still doesn’t eliminate fudge, Snickers bars, or muffins.

Most likely you’re problem isn’t that you eat too many calories from meat. Yes, eating fresh produce and whole grains is very good for you, but going vegetarian doesn’t ensure you really will do that. New “vegetarians” need to be careful not to fall into the trap of becoming “carbotarians”, people who live on breads, fried vegetables, fried tofu, and sugary foods.

Before you demonize meat products, recognize how valuable protein is for weight loss and muscle building efforts. Eating protein will help you feel full and will support any muscle tear-down and rebuilding related to exercise. This is not to say vegetarians can’t get more than enough protein from a vegetarian diet, just that inexperienced vegetarians may not know how to do so. Most likely, your meat consumption isn’t your biggest weight loss obstacle.

However, most Americans could stand to increase their fruit, vegetable, and whole grain consumption, assuming they exchange this for a reduction in consumption of high calorie, highly processed foods. The benefits of eating fruit and vegetables are undeniable, and most Americans don’t eat nearly enough of either. Fresh produce is low in calories, and if you want to lose weight, you have to control caloric intake and exercise.

So you want to lose weight? Don’t worry about going strictly vegetarian. Eat more fruit, vegetables, and whole grains, and cut down on high calorie foods such as fatty meats, desserts, snacks, and other processed foods. You’ll find success with a moderate diet plan that includes exercise.

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