Flexitarians: A Way of Eating for the Future?

Let's find out more about Flexitarianism

In a world that is increasingly concerned about health and the environment, Flexitarianism is emerging as a dietary approach that is gaining more and more consensus. But what is it exactly?

What does Flexitarian mean? As the name suggests, Flexitarianism is a flexible diet inspired by the principles of vegetarianism. In practice, it is based on the prevalent consumption of plant-based foods, such as fruit, vegetables, legumes, cereals and derivatives, while meat and fish are allowed in moderation. It is important to remember that the flexitarian diet is not a rigid diet, but a flexible approach that can be adapted to your needs and preferences. The key is to prioritize plant-based foods and limit consumption of meat and animal products.

What do Flexitarians eat?

A flexitarian diet is based primarily on plant-based foods, such as:

• Fruits and vegetables : of all colors and varieties, fresh, frozen or dried.
• Legumes: chickpeas, lentils, beans, peas, broad beans, soy and derivatives (tofu, tempeh, edamame).
• Whole grains : brown rice, quinoa, oats, barley, spelt, whole grain bread and pasta.
• Nuts and seeds : almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds.
• Vegetable oils : extra virgin olive oil, sunflower seed oil, rice oil.

Meat, fish and eggs are allowed in moderation. It is recommended to choose:

• Meat : poultry, fish and, to a lesser extent, red meat from sustainable farms.
• Fish : prefer blue fish and vary its consumption.
• Eggs : from free-range hens.

In addition to what they eat, flexitarians also pay attention to how they eat:

• They eat regular, balanced meals.
• They eat slowly and carefully.
• They drink plenty of water.
• They limit their consumption of processed foods, refined sugars and saturated fats.

Why do some people choose Flexitarianism? Following a flexitarian diet can bring numerous benefits to health, the environment and animal welfare. The reasons that push people to follow a flexitarian diet can be different: Health : Reducing meat consumption, especially red meat, has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers. Environment : Intensive animal farming has a significant impact on the environment, in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption and deforestation. Reducing meat consumption helps to reduce this impact. Animal Welfare : Many flexitarians choose to reduce their meat consumption for ethical reasons, related to the welfare of farmed animals. Taste : Vegetarian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors and delicious recipes, which can conquer even the most demanding palates.

How to become a Flexitarian?

Becoming a flexitarian isn’t hard. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Start gradually : You don't have to completely change your eating habits overnight. Start by cutting back on meat a couple of times a week, then gradually increase the frequency.
• Try new recipes : There are endless tasty and creative vegetarian recipes. Experiment with new dishes and discover new flavors.
• Focus on plant foods : Make sure you get plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains every day. These foods are packed with nutrients that are essential for health.
• Don't feel guilty : If you crave meat one day, that's okay! Flexitarianism is flexible by definition, so allow yourself a few cravings every now and then.
• Seek Support : There are many online and offline resources to help you get started and stay on your flexitarian journey. Look for support groups online or in your community, or consult a nutritionist for personalized advice.

Flexitarianism is a great choice for those who want to improve their health, reduce their environmental impact, and make a more ethical choice towards animals.

It is a flexible and tasty eating approach that can be adapted to everyone's needs and preferences.

NB

This article is only a general indication and for informational purposes only, if you want to start a flexitarian journey contact a nutritionist and discover the benefits of a healthier and more sustainable diet!