While choosing to eat a more whole foods, plant based diet is a wise choice, the choices we make daily may not be. Many choices are loaded with sugars, fats, saturated fats, sodium, artificial ingredients and more and this is true no matter your dietary ilk. Remember to be a label reader and wise shopper.
Even avid label readers can find It challenging to weed through the choices and marketing makes it even more confusing. A good example is The Impossible burger that is in the news right now. At first glance it seems like a great option, while it is high in protein with 19 grams it is also 53% fat, 8 grams of which are saturated plus it has 370 mg of sodium! In addition, many may not realize that the ingredient that makes it meat like is created using a genetically modified yeast that is then fermented, called Heme.
This is from the Impossible Burger website "The heme in Impossible Burger is made using a yeast engineered with the gene for soy leghemoglobin. First, we grow yeast via fermentation. Then, we isolate the soy leghemoglobin (containing heme) from the yeast, and add it to the Impossible Burger, where it combines with other micronutrients to create delicious, meaty flavor. ".
This presents a dilemma for some, while excited to see a new option on the Vegan/Vegetarian front many are not willing to step into the GMO world. But the bottom line is there are simply healthier choices regardless of the GMO factor.
I encourage you to remember that Vegan and vegetarian options are not necessarily healthier for you. The wisest choice, when choosing these options is to choose nutrient dense, whole food, plant, based foods closest to their natural form, i.e. less processed.
If it isn't that healthy in the meat eating world it isn't transformed into a healthy meal by making it meat free. Moderation and label reading are important no matter how you eat. A vegan "milkshake" is still a milkshake. There is nothing wrong with the occasional treat, but be honest with yourself and remember to eat those foods in moderation and admit that it isn't the healthiest choice. Think of an apple, apple sauce, and an apple pie; the more processed it the less nutritional value and the more likely it is to have added ingredients like sugar, sodium, and preservatives.
There are many wise choices out there and study after study confirms that eating more whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and nuts is beneficial to our health. Whether you are a meat lover or meat avoider remember to choose wisely, read labels, and be informed.
Lisa is and Independent Shaklee Distributor and received her Health Coach Certification from the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute, founded by world-renowned physician and author, Dr. William Sears. The Institute is a leader in science-based health and wellness education that focuses on the four pillars of health; Lifestyle, Exercise, Attitude and Nutrition (L.E.A.N.). A certification by the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute is obtained only after completing the extensive course work and meeting all requirements. Once certified, a Health Coach possesses the knowledge, tools and resources to make a positive difference in the health of others. To learn more visit http://yieldingaction.com
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