We’ve been reading about the international effort to encourage a meat-free day each week for people across the world. As a
USA Today article on the movement points out, if every American went without meat and cheese for a single day each week for a year, the environmental effect would be the same as if Americans as a whole drove 91 billion fewer miles that year.
That’s a pretty serious impact. Of course, it’s a personal decision to make such a change, and it might not be appropriate for all Americans. But for those of you mulling over this movement, we thought we could provide some meat and cheese-free ways to eat well and feel full without those traditional sources of protein.
Some of our favorite filling foods?
Whole grains. They’re fiber-filled, so they’ve got staying power – meaning you stay full longer after eating them. And research has shown that a diet rich in whole grains can lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some forms of cancer.
Nuts. One of nature’s most portable snacks, nuts are packed with protein, minerals and fiber – along with health-boosting
antioxidants.
Beans. Legumes are a great natural source of fiber, protein and health-boosting folate. The folks at fitsugar have shared some yummy-looking
recipes for adding this naturally filling food to your daily diet.
Just a little food for thought (no pun intended) as we all work toward a greener world.