National Vegetarian Week 15-21 May 2017

As we are celebrating this week as "National Vegetarian Week" (NVW) it's a great opportunity to discuss about importance of eating veggies. NVW celebrated by many countries is an annual awareness raising campaign promoting vegetarian food and meat free lifestyle.Vegetarianism have drawn people close to it recently. There are numerous research and demonstrations about benefits of eating plant products: grains, fruits, vegetables etc. Vegetarian diets are low on risk of heart diseases and cancer, having less complex carbohydrates, which also prevents oneself from weight gain, stroke and diabetes. it is always said "Eat veg to live long".

Animal products high on fats and cholesterol tend to clog your arteries slowing down your immune system. Whereas, plant products generate more valuable energy, they are naturally free from high fat compounds and help supply enough oxygen to your bloodstream making you feel lighter, energized and fit. But, ya that doesn't mean non- vegetarian diet is totally unhealthy, We know that Japanese have long life span and they are the most fittest ,that doesn't mean they don't eat meat? but they actually have lots of veggies in their diet. Even their non-veg meals are complimented by lots of vegetables.

There are enormous vegetarian foods that are beneficial for health. For example: Tofu / Paneer are the best source of protein, zinc, iron, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium and vitamin D helping in absorb extra bone calcium. Pulses like Moong, Rajma, Chana, Masoor, Arhar, Beans etc. are rich sources of protein, fiber and good for your cardiovascular health. Green leafy vegetables like Spinach are high in dietary fiber and rich in folic acid, potassium, magnesium and beta carotene which are useful in reducing cancer and heart diseases. We are even lucky that nature bestows us with her seasonal fruits because they help you support body's natural nutritional requirements of that particular season.

I have not written here to motivate you to become a vegetarian.We have full right to choose our own food lifestyles whether it's eating veg or non-veg, But yes, going on for a vegetarian diet this week is not bad either. Be a vegan and try not to use or eat animal products this week.