Why Going Vegan is the Best Choice for Your Health and the Planet
Vegan Thai Green Curry: Sauté 1 diced onion, 2 cloves minced garlic & 1 tbsp green curry paste. Add 1 can coconut milk, 1 cup veg broth, 1 cup diced veggies (carrots, bell peppers, & zucchini), 1 tbsp soy sauce, & 1 tsp sugar. Simmer until veggies are tender. Serve over rice & top with cilantro.
By: Elizabeth Wieck
(A Cancer Survivor)
As concerns about the environment and personal health continue to grow, more and more people are turning to a vegan lifestyle. A vegan diet is one that is free of any animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs. While it may seem like a drastic change, going vegan can have numerous benefits for both your health and the environment.
Health Benefits of a Vegan Diet
One of the primary benefits of a vegan diet is improved health. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. A vegan diet is naturally low in saturated fats and high in fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve digestion.
Furthermore, a vegan diet can provide all of the necessary nutrients needed for a healthy lifestyle, including protein, iron, and calcium. Plant-based sources of protein such as beans, lentils, and quinoa are abundant and provide all of the essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair. Additionally, leafy greens such as kale and spinach are excellent sources of iron and calcium, which are essential for healthy bones and blood.
Environmental Benefits of a Vegan Diet
In addition to personal health benefits, a vegan diet can also benefit the environment. The production of animal products is a leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. It takes far more resources to produce a pound of meat than it does to produce a pound of vegetables. By going vegan, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
A Better World Through Veganism
By adopting a vegan lifestyle, you can make a positive impact on both your health and the environment. Going vegan can be a challenging transition, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many resources available to help you make the switch, including vegan cookbooks, online communities, and support groups.
Veganism isn’t just a diet, it’s a way of life that can lead to a better world for all. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to improving personal health, there are many reasons to consider going vegan. So why not give it a try?
You may just find that it’s the best decision you ever make.
Here’s a recipe for vegan stuffed eggplant:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Set the flesh aside.
- Brush the eggplant halves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until they are slightly softened.
- While the eggplants are baking, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the red bell pepper, zucchini, and tomato to the pan and continue to sauté for another 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the reserved eggplant flesh to the pan, along with the cooked quinoa, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
- Remove the eggplant halves from the oven and fill them with the quinoa and vegetable mixture. Return them to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until the eggplants are fully cooked and tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your delicious vegan stuffed eggplants!
Share in the comments your own recipes, experiences, or life lessons!
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