If you’re not a carnivore eater, but you’re not following a vegan or vegetarian diet either –where does that leave you? Whilst plant-based foods offer health benefits, not everyone is ready to commit to a vegan or vegetarian-only diet. Instead, why not dip your toes into the ‘reducetarian’ movement?
What is reducetarian?
There are so many dietary strategies available out there, but this one is about reducing meat consumption, without fully going vegan. Starting off with a “Meatless Monday” is often the easiest way to adapt to this dietary plan.
It is simply about being more mindful and conscious about eating fewer animal products, including meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs. With reducetarianism, people have the freedom to focus on plant-based eating without committing to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
Benefits of reducetarian
According to the American Heart Association, eating less meat improves your health by decreasing your chance of heart disease, certain types of cancers, strokes, diabetes, and many other chronic illnesses, even if you choose a meatless meal once or twice a week.
It is also considered less expensive to follow a reduced meat dietary plan.
People decide to eat less meat for many reasons. It may be for health, ethical, religious, cultural, or even environmental reasons.
Reducetarian shows that you don’t have to get rid of all meat all at once. Instead, try ease into your meatless meals. Think about going meatless one day a week. Once you’ve adapted to the change, you may find you’ll want to add more days.
Pro Tip: Incorporate the following to ensure you are still getting your protein intake
- Beans, peas, and lentils can be added to casseroles, soups, and salads.
- Vegetarian refried beans can be used instead of meat in burritos and tacos.
- Tofu can be added to stir-fried dishes.
How to practice eating less meat
- Swap in plant-based alternatives
- Start eating smaller portions of meat first
- Try Meatless Monday
- Explore Vegetarian Meals
- Purchase high quality meat
Don’t be too hard on yourself. This is not a hard and fast eating plan. It’s adjustable to you!
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