In an effort to lose weight, many diet options are available. The Flexitarian Diet offers a unique perspective offering a primarily vegetarian meal plan while allowing dieters the option to eat meat every so often. Read on to find out more about how it works.

What is the Flexitarian Diet?

The Flexitarian Diet is outlined in the book written by Dawn Jackson Blatner. It revolves mainly around plant based foods. It emphasizes adding food groups to your diet rather than taking any away. It also heavily advocates substitutions so that meats can be replaced by tofu, beans, lentils, please, nuts and seeds and fruits and veggies.

A five week meal plan is outlined and dieters are encouraged to use recipes on a regular basis to radically alter diets, or to incorporate meals once in a while, which can be ideal for those that are already eating healthy.

The Flexitarian Diet encourages weight loss as most vegetarians weigh less than meat eaters. Studies show that vegetarians tend to eat fewer calories and have a lower body mass index than meat eaters so sticking to this plant based diet of fruits, veggies and whole grains can keep you feeling full and shedding weight in no time.

Exercise on the Flexitarian Diet

Exercise on the Flexitarian Diet is highly encouraged. Ideally, dieters should be exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes five days a week, or 20 minutes three days a week for more intense activities,. Strength training at least two days a week is recommended as well. In the book, dieters are shown how to use the world as their gym while staying motivated.

Nutrition on the Flexitarian Diet

The Flexitarian Diet complies with nutritional guidelines for completeness and safety. The plant based proteins and whole grains stay in line with the government’s nutrient recommendations.

Breakfast, lunches and dinners and snacks are figured into the meal plan for a total of around 1500 calories although this can be tweaked according to gender, height and weight.

Customer Feedback:

The Flexitarian Diet has been received with overall positive reviews. Here is what some dieters are saying:

“Love. This. Book. It’s perfect for someone considering a vegetarian lifestyle. I love that most of the recipes have the option to add meat if desired. The book is comprehensive, easy to follow and I’ve put it to good use since purchasing it. I recommend it for anyone wanting to eat healthier and/or considering being vegetarian.”

“I have tried some of the recipes in this book as an alternative to a meat filled diet. Ms. Blatner’s recipes are tasty and easy to assemble for a nice vegetarian meal that is packed with nutrients, fiber and good for you fruits and vegetables.”

“I love this book. I’ve had it for about 2 weeks and have already made several of the dishes listed in this book. I am working my way to not eating meat as much and this book helps with that. I do recommend this book to anyone interested in buying it.”

Advantages of the Flexitarian Diet:

• A lot of easy to make recipes.
• Flexibility in meal plans makes it convenient.
• Detailed meals and grocery lists are provided.
• Book includes valuable advice on sticking to the diet.
• Eating out is allowed with recommended restrictions.
• Alcohol is allowed with recommended restrictions.

Disadvantages of the Flexitarian Diet:

• Diet may be too flexible. It allows a lot of wiggle room and may not be the best for those who need to improve eating habits for health reasons.

Conclusion

The Flexitarian Diet is good for those who want to gradually improve their eating habits. Following the diet closely will be beneficial health and result in weight loss. The diet is recommended to those on the path towards a healthier lifestyle.