What are the benefits and effects of flexitarian diet?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have recently considered transitioning to a flexitarian or plant-based diet for health reasons. I am interested in understanding the nutritional aspects of flexitarians' and how they compare to strict vegetarianism. Could you provide insights into the potential benefits and challenges of a flexitarian approach and any specific nutritional considerations I should consider while adopting a more plant-focused lifestyle? Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

When we talk about a flexitarian diet, it is mainly a vegetarian diet with occasionally eating meat or seafood. It can be due to health reasons or personal preferences. But it is completely different from a vegan diet and it is not an issue to follow a vegan diet, but give your body time to adapt to it and gradually shift. You need to add some supplements to cover initially, then you can manage as possible. Vegan food and its cost along with availability can be an issue too and anything that comes from animals cannot be part of a vegan diet. I feel here you can make a gradual shift to a Mediterranean diet, which helps a person following flexitarianism. It mainly relies upon the greater intake of plant-based food products and limited consumption of meat products. It is composed of dietary practices that significantly lower the risk of health problems like diabetes, cancer, depression, heart attacks, obesity, and others. The diet includes the following:

1. Regular intake of fruits and vegetables.

2. Frequent consumption of whole grains and legumes.

3. Daily use of olive oil, nuts, and seeds as a source of fats.

4. A moderate intake of dairy products.

5. Occasional consumption of eggs, meat, fish, and wine.

6. Seldom intake of honey and added sugars.

Before following a strict Mediterranean diet plan, you need to shun certain types of food such as

1. Butter and refined oils.

2. Refined grains like white bread and pasta, pizza, and food products made from white or refined flour.

3. Processed and packaged food products.

4. Red meat.

5. Desserts with high added sugars.

These are a few tips but you need to take a personalized dietary consultation once.

I hope you find this information helpful.

Thank you.