Help!
I have stopped eating meat and so far I have lost 9lbs in weight without even trying. I am not dieting, just not eating meat. My calorie intake from meat must have been quite high for me to lose this much weight.
I need some ideas for supplementing my protein intake. I have bought a Hemp Protein Powder with the full range of amino acids, but I need food too!
Any ideas gratefully received.
Hi Linda! Hey Everybody!
Great discussion!
There are a few things you want to look at re: getting rid of meat and weight loss. Although, from a caloric perspective, you may be taking in less [not always the case], you'll find that there's the matter of a shift in your pH.
The fat generated in our bodies serve many different functions. We all know of the nutrient/energy storage for possible times of famine; we may know about the insulation against cold, but one that isn't discussed as prolifically is the insulation fat provides from acid.
When we have too much acid in our system our body produces fat as an insulator, and 'sponge' of sorts, to protect tissues and structures from damage. When we remove items that contribute to the over-acidification of our organs and tissues, we lose the need for that barrier.
The end result can show up as weight loss.
This also is the reason why, although we may be vegetarian, we may still put on weight and/or have loads of trouble losing it. If the diet's acid producing, the body's defense will be to produce mucus and fat.
Re: protein sources
There are many things we can eat to make up our protein requirements. Key things you want to look at are your variety, balance of flavors, colors, age and levels of processing.
Variety: With a larger selection you add to your diet the amino acids it needs to create the building blocks to build the best quality tissues and infrastructure for your body's metabolic functions. As a general rule, it's great to have a good mixture of colors, flavors and textures at every meal.
Soaked raw almonds are a great source of amino acids and are alkalizing to your system, which translates to no 'acid induced' fat production, along with a satisfied appetite or satiety.
Add raw sprouts to your food plan, as they are both alkalizing and packed full of enzymes and nutrients. [They also help the body digest foods and are very cleansing and healing.]
Mushrooms are a great source of not only proteins, but also complex sugars the body uses to build healthy systems.
Seaweed is loaded with vitamins, macro and micro minerals and enzymes. They're a great supplement for a healthy vegetarian lifestyle.
Hope this is helpful info!
I've got exciting news [well, at least for me, that is...]
I've started a new series on vegetarianism and I think you're going to love it!
I'll be starting, pretty much, from the beginning and laying the foundation for you to set up either a vegetarian lifestyle or the principles on which to base your best lifestyle and health choices through your diet.
I'll start a new post for that and I'll need you to chime in frequently, so I'm consistently tracking with what you need out of the series. I want to keep it relevant for you!