BODYBUILDING: THE VEGAN WAY

Australians are increasingly adopting the vegan route owing to its innumerable benefits. Recent reports suggest that the number of vegans in the nation has significantly gone up, and there are over 2.5 million of them today. An increasing number of Australians are also eschewing meat.

This foundational shift has far-reaching implications, and people are favouring plant protein over animal protein. Veganism is a movement that respects animals and strives to put an end to their exploitation by humans. One can use them for food, entertainment, clothing, and other purposes. The supporters of this movement do not use them in any way and therefore adopt a plant-based diet.

Risks of Having a Meat-based Diet:

Red meat (beef, pork, and lamb) is one of the sources of high-quality protein. Correspondingly several studies have established that this meat consumption increases the risk of heart diseases and early death. Reports have also suggested that processed red meat poses a higher risk.

Impact of a Vegetarian diet:

In contrast, diets rich in plant-protein are high in health benefits. They have been successful in lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and aids overall weight loss.

A growing number of the public adopt a plant-based diet as they see considerable changes in their metabolism and health. They are happier, healthier, and more fit. Replacing meat and having a low-carb diet reduces the risk of diabetes and obesity.

How essential is Protein?

It makes up 20% of the human body. It is a vital element to build muscle strength. Whey, Pea, and Quinoa are a great source of protein, and they are:

  1. Lactose-free
  2. Vegan
  3. Do not contain gluten
  4. They are eco-friendly

Does it result in Belly fat loss?

A high protein diet increases the metabolic rate, thereby burning calories faster. It reduces fat in the mid-section area when used consistently and in a balanced way. A study among adults over 20 years showed that eating nuts and vegetarian supplements led to better weight management. Foods like lentils and peas make you feel fuller, thereby abetting weight loss.

Reduces Appetite:

Firstly, protein curbs the appetite by satisfying cravings. It makes one feel fuller for more extended periods, thereby negating the need for snacking. Secondly, it results in an increased production of hormones like ghrelin- hunger hormone, that reduce appetite.

People who are under medical supervision should consult a dietician before making changes. Comparatively, this nutrition has no or very few side-effects.

Increases Metabolic Rate:

Metabolic rate is boosted by a rich protein-diet, especially during workouts. Calories are burned at a higher rate as muscles are better at burning them faster.

Aids Weight-Gain:

Whey protein is among the most effective in gaining weight and improving muscle mass. The difference between using it for weight-loss and weight-gain depends on the quantity and frequency at which one takes it.

Using protein to gain weight involves taking it frequently, which adds to the total calorie intake. Consuming at least 200 calories of it per day leads to a significant weight gain. However, the changes are subjective and depend on varying metabolic rates.

The Biological Value Scale is significant in assessing the protein needs of a body. This value differs from person to person. Eggs range at 100 on the scale, while whey is 104 and beef is 75. Some forms of pure whey protein can even be up to 170. Thus plant-based protein scores higher on the biological value scale.

Conclusion:

Protein has endless possibilities of being incorporated into a diet. From health shakes to snacks, they form a delicious addition to the daily calorie intake.