People are always asking me questions about the benefits of Meatless Monday (which I have consistently been doing for awhile now). For me, it makes me take one day a week to consciously cut out red meat and poultry, which ups my intake of fruit, veggies, and fiber filled carbs like wheat pasta or bread, as well as beans and soy based products. I am sure many people also cut out fish and eggs, but I choose to eat those still and follow more of a Pescetarian diet for a day! Here are three reasons cutting out meat effects your diet and even how it has impacts on the environment:
Health benefits:
By going meatless, you can reduce your risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, which in turn, could lead to more years of life. Even if it is just for a day, you will consume more vitamin and mineral filled foods, which tend to be lower in fat. In turn, you will have more energy and give your immune system a boost.
Lower fossil fuel consumption:
In terms of the environment “40 calories of fossil fuel energy go into every calorie of feed lot beef” in the US. Less meat consumption = a decrease in demands for fossil fuel! The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization also estimates the meat industry generates more gas emissions then transportation does. Gas emissions lead to climate changes and are a direct effect of the man-made greenhouses. By cutting back just a bit and lowering consumption of meats, it’s said to help slow this negative effect!
Reduce water waste:
According to the Meatless Monday website, Soy tofu produced in California requires 220 gallons of water per pound while livestock uses a whopping 1,800 to 2,500 gallons of water for one single pound of beef. So basically less meat equals more water for all!
Find out more information at their website, where there are also plenty of recipe and meal suggestions as well.
Question: Have you heard of it? Do you do Meatless Monday too?
