How to Lose Weight on a Plant-Based Diet

Interested in going the plant-based route for weight loss? Get started with these tips.

1. Decide on a plant-based definition

There is no single definition of a plant-based diet. So it’s up to you to decide which style of this meal suits you. For example, your eating pattern may look like veganism, which eliminates all foods of animal origin. Dairy-egg vegetarianism that allows eggs and dairy products. Or pescatarianism involving seafood. There is also the flexitarian diet. That is, they eat animal foods here and there, but follow a predominantly plant-based dietary pattern. Studies have linked veganism, lacto-ovo-vegetarianism, pescetarianism, and flexitarianism with weight loss. Ultimately, you have a choice, and identifying your own definition will provide direction for your dietary choices.

Before you dive in, think about how this eating pattern might affect your lifestyle. A wider version of vegetarianism, on the other hand, may be easier to follow.

2. Avoid an all-or-nothing mentality

Remember, your diet is up to you. Even if you choose a plant-based eating pattern, you can never get away from it. “Maybe you’re not ready to go completely plant-based right now, and that’s fine,” says Newlin. “Perhaps start by adding vegetables to meals you already like and eating fruit as a dessert.”

Replacing high-calorie desserts with fruit may enhance weight loss. Studies published in 2019 The forefront of nutrition science Eating fresh whole fruit is less likely to contribute excess calories or body fat and may also help prevent overweight.

3. Learn about plant-based swaps

Switching to a plant-based diet doesn’t require tweaking macros or counting calories, but it does require a little knowledge. Take the time to learn about a variety of plant-based alternatives to prepare for this way of eating. “Try different types of plant-based proteins and recipes,” suggests Mitri. Or, learn how to use flax “eggs” and vegetable oils in place of animal products in baking.

These plant-based substitutes are often lower in calories and fat than their animal counterparts, which may help support weight loss. For example, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 3 ounces of tofu has only 63 calories, while a 3-ounce chicken breast has 122 calories. Similarly, one cup of almond milk contains 37 calories and 3 grams of fat, while one cup of 2% milk contains 122 calories and 4.6 grams of fat, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. increase.

4. Don’t forget the protein

Protein deficiency is a common pitfall of plant-based diets, especially if you have long relied on animal foods for this macronutrient. Don’t forget to include plenty of plant foods.

Protein may be one key to successful weight loss. Studies have not shown that plant protein has a significant advantage over animal protein in losing weight, but studies show that consuming enough of this macronutrient can actually help you lose weight. helps reduce the

5. Keep meal plans simple

“Don’t complicate your plant-based diet!” advises Newlin. “She can put together a healthy plant-based meal in under 10 minutes.” It’s a bottled sauce. “Take it easy at first, then try new recipes as you gain confidence.”

A simple home-cooked meal isn’t just for busy weeknights. It can also result in lower numbers on the scale. Chronicles of Behavioral Medicinethose who planned their meals had a lower body mass index (BMI) than those who did not.

6. Develop a Satiety Strategy

A bowl of vegetable salad for lunch is a great way to get your micronutrients and antioxidants in, but you’re likely going to be hungry by 2pm. “Prioritize the inclusion of protein and fiber sources in all meals and limit the number of refined carbohydrates in your diet,” suggests Mitri. You can reduce the chances of overeating at this time.

7. Pay attention to food labels

Just because a food claims to be plant-based doesn’t mean it’s healthy. make it possible to distinguish between “Read labels and watch out for saturated fat, added sugars, and sodium content in processed foods,” recommends Newlin. “Junk food remains junk food even when wrapped in plant-based labels.” is a particularly sensible way to reach