The trend in recent years had been toward low carb diets. But studies have shown that the healthiest diets incorporate items from all the food groups.
 

You get all the variety you need from a plant-based diet, but the best vegetarian weight loss diet to lose pounds with is one that provides plenty of protein, fats, and carbs. All of these food groups play a role in successful weight loss.
 

The Importance of Protein
 

Our ability to build more lean muscle mass, and fuel for our muscles, is provided by protein. Protein is the food of choice for sustained energy. It is digested slower than carbohydrates, so it helps us feel satisfied longer. Marathon runners eat protein to keep their energy levels high during competition.
 

One criticism of vegetarian diets is that they don’t provide enough protein. This is actually a baseless fear. You can get plenty of protein without eating meat. A vegetarian weight loss diet can incorporate protein from nuts and nut butters; soy and meat substitutes; and low-fat dairy products. These proteins are even more complete than the ones you get from meat, and they’re much lower in saturated fat.

 

In addition to protein, a good vegetarian weight loss diet should include plenty of calcium. It has proven fat-burning qualities that you can lose pounds with in no time.
 

The Importance of Fats
 

Fats are one of the most misunderstood food groups. Like protein, dietary fat keeps our hunger under control. Low-fat diets are often unsatisfying, though easy to lose pounds with, and trans and saturated fats are bad for our hearts. How can a vegetarian weight loss diet be healthy if it’s high in fat?
 

Unsaturated fats should be part of a heart-healthy diet, though all fats should be eaten in moderation. Unsaturated fats come from plant sources like olives and olive oil, avocados, and nuts, making them a perfect choice for vegetarians.
 

Unsaturated fats have been shown to prevent heart disease, and they have even been shown to reduce plaque build-up caused by high cholesterol. Unsaturated fats raise levels of good cholesterol, which sweeps through arteries and clears away plaque. These fats also lower levels of the bad cholesterol that accumulates in arteries.
 

Because of its ability to satisfy hunger and reduce cravings, fat is an important tool to lose pounds with. Don’t go too long without it, or you risk having strong cravings and feeling hungry most of the time – a recipe for weight loss disaster!
 

Carbs & Vitamins
 

Vegetarian diets provide plenty of carbohydrates. Carbs are a good food choice before and after workouts, as they are good for quick energy. Some carbs, though, like products containing lots of white flour, refined sugar, or starch, can actually make you gain weight and can leave you feeling hungrier than before! So be careful which carbs you eat.
 

The best carbohydrate sources to lose pounds with are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If you just can’t give up bread and pasta, switch to whole wheat or whole grain varieties. These products contain more fiber than their overly processed counterparts, and they don’t cause blood sugar spikes and crashes.
 

The Dangers of Soy
 

Soy is a common protein source for people wanting to lose pounds with the best vegetarian weight loss diet. But too much of a good thing can cause problems. Soy consumption has been linked to slow weight loss and thyroid disorders. That doesn’t mean you should avoid it completely; just eat it and drink it in moderation.
 

So how much soy is too much? Ask your nutritionist or doctor to make a recommendation. They can take your medical history into consideration and come up with an amount that’s right for you.

To help you lose pounds with the best vegetarian diet, check out Easy Veggie Meal Plans here:  

http://www.thinagaincoaches.com/go/veggiemeals

—Coach Miranda