Blog B2BIO - What is a flexitarian?

We all know that eating less meat is good for the planet and good for our health, and it seems more and more of us are consciously making an effort to cut down on our meat consumption. What is a Flexitarian?

What is a Flexitarian?

"It is the one that carries a semi-vegetarian or flexitarian diet: most of the time eats vegetables, but occasionally can have meats or derivatives. The most common reasons for adopting a semi-vegetarian diet can be related to ethics, animal welfare and / or rights, the environment or reducing resource use "

How was the term born?

The basic premise is that for a person to like vegetables, you do not necessarily have to be a vegetarian. "Flexitarian" is a very recently term, to describe those who eat mostly vegetables, but some meat is allowed from time to time. The word "flexitarian" came about as a result of the publication of the book, the flexitive diet in 2008, which gave him great publicity in the US and from there, conquered many people around the world, who according to many vegetarians: "felt guilty for eating meat occasionally. "

So what is the difference between a flexitarian and a vegetarian?

The difference is in the flesh. While semi-vegetarians may see meat or animal products as occasional indulgences, the more firm vegetarians generally regard this position as false or see it as a self-deception, although the arguments put forward by both to justify their choices are exactly the same. On the other hand, many advocates of veganism embrace semi-vegetarianism as a way to get a wider audience to match some of the principles of veganism. His idea is that flexitarianism will avoid more animal suffering and environmental devastation, which, if the public sees the issue of meat consumption, as an "all or nothing."

What do you have to do to be a flexitarian?

- Buy a recipe book: Sometimes eating only vegetables and fruits can be a bit monotonous.

- Buy a recipe book to get out of the usual and cook the most healthy and original dishes.

- Eat meat one or two days a week: To follow a flexitarian diet you can only eat meat one or two days a week and it must also be meat of quality. Try to eat meat on Mondays to start the week with energy and a weekend day for example.

- Take the necessary proteins: Legumes and cereals are a good option to increase protein intake and replace those of meat.

- Pay special attention to the consumption of nuts: Do not consume excess nuts as they can interrupt the control of your weight. Try chia seeds, fully recommended for a balanced diet.

- Consume iron, omega 3 and vitamin B12: Take eggs, legumes and green leafy vegetables that contain lots of iron. For vitamin C test with citrus fruits. Do not forget the salads or the peppers. For vitamin B12 it consumes dairy products.

Is there a risk to health?

No. Since it is a balanced diet in which no staple food is removed. However, do not forget to always consult a doctor before starting a new diet especially if you are pregnant or if you have any health problems.

We all know that eating less meat is good for the planet and good for our health, and it seems more and more of us are consciously making an effort to cut down on our meat consumption.