It's time to try meatless meals (2024)

Meatless meals: The benefits of eating less meat

Plant-based proteins offer many health benefits and can be less expensive than meat. One way to get these benefits is to choose a meatless meal once or twice a week.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

People decide to eat less meat for many reasons. You may want to cut out meat for health, ethical, religious, cultural or environmental reasons. But it can be hard to make changes to your diet and still serve healthy meals.

Why not start by serving meatless meals once or twice a week?

Meatless meals are built around beans, lentils, vegetables and whole grains. Plant-based proteins offer many health benefits. Eating more plant-based proteins can help your budget too. They tend to be less pricy than meat.

The health factor

A plant-based diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, peas, lentils and nuts. It's rich in fiber, vitamins and other nutrients. And people who don't eat meat, called vegetarians, generally eat fewer calories and less fat. They also tend to weigh less. And they have a lower risk of heart disease than nonvegetarians do.

Research shows that people who eat red meat are at a higher risk of death from heart disease, stroke or diabetes. Processed meats also make the risk of death from these diseases go up.

And what you don't eat also can harm your health. Diets low in nuts, seeds, seafood, fruits and vegetables can also make your health risks go up. The good news is that even eating less red and processed meat has a positive effect on health.

How much protein do you need?

Most Americans get enough protein in their diets. The recommended daily intake of protein for adults is about 50 grams.

Of course, your protein needs will vary with age, weight, health, pregnancy, activity level and other factors. Adults need about 5 to 7 ounces of protein-rich foods a day. And keep in mind, you can choose from more than one protein source.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends choosing a variety of proteins. These include eggs, low-fat milk and products made from it, beans, peas, lentils, soy products, and unsalted nuts and seeds.

If you're eating a higher calorie protein source, stick to smaller portions. For example, enjoy just 1/2 ounce of nuts, or 1 to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.

The guidelines also suggest replacing protein foods that are higher in solid fats with choices that are lower in solid fats and calories. The fats in meat, poultry, eggs and high-fat dairy products such as cheese are called solid fats. The fats in seafood, nuts and seeds are called oils.

Try meatless meals once or twice a week

You don't have to get rid of all meat all at once. Instead, try easing into meatless meals. Think about going meatless one day a week. You may find you'll want to add more days.

If you don't like the idea of a whole day without meat, start with a couple of meatless dinners each week. Plan meals that use your favorite recipes that are typically meatless, such as lasagna, soup, pasta and vegetable salad. Or try substituting the following protein-rich foods for meat in your favorite recipes:

  • Beans, peas and lentils can be added to casseroles, soups and salads.
  • Vegetarian refried beans can be used instead of meat in burritos and tacos.
  • Tofu can be added tostir-fry dishes.

When meat is on the menu

When your meals include meat, don't overeat. Choose lean cuts and stay away from oversized portions. A serving of protein is 3 ounces, about the size of a deck of cards.

An easy guide to balance your meal is to divide your plate. Proteins should take up no more than one-fourth of your plate. Vegetables and fruits should cover half your plate. Whole grains make up the rest.

Flexing for your health

The term "flexitarian" describes someone who eats mostly plant-based foods. But the person occasionally eats meat, poultry and fish.

Plant-forward is a style of eating that includes meat. But meat is not the star of the meal. This kind of healthy eating is key to the Mediterranean diet. It's also key to other cuisines, such as some Asian, Ethiopian, Indian and Middle Eastern diets. These diets limit red meat. And they focus on fruits, vegetables, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, whole grains and healthy fat. This type of diet has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Why not work on your flexibility and start enjoying some healthy benefits?

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Dec. 09, 2022

  1. 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  2. Going meatless once a week. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/vegetarian-and-special-diets/going-meatless-once-a-week. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  3. Vary your protein routine. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/tip-sheet/vary-your-protein-routine. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  4. Protein foods. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/protein-foods#mp-container-706352. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  5. Parker HW, et al. Diet quality of vegetarian diets compared with nonvegetarian diets: A systematic review. Nutrition Reviews. 2019; doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuy067.
  6. Craig WJ, et al. The safe and effective use of plant-based diets with guidelines for health professionals. Nutrients. 2021; doi:3390/nu13114144.
  7. Picking healthy proteins. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/meat-poultry-and-fish-picking-healthy-proteins. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  8. How does plant-forward (plant-based) eating benefit your health? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/how-does-plant-forward-eating-benefit-your-health. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  9. The benefits of beans and legumes. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/the-benefits-of-beans-and-legumes. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  10. What is the Mediterranean diet? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/mediterranean-diet. Accessed Oct. 25, 2022.
  11. Thrifty food plan, 2021. U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.fns.usda.gov/cnpp/usda-food-plans-cost-food-reports. Accessed Oct. 26, 2022.
  12. Dietary Reference Intakes for energy, carbohydrate, fiber, fat, fatty acids, cholesterol, protein, and amino acids. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. https://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?isbn=0309085373. Accessed Nov. 3, 2022.
  13. Zeratsky KA (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Nov. 3, 2022.

See more In-depth

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See also

  1. Food safety
  2. Foodborne illness
  3. Guide to herbs and spices
  4. Healthy meals start with planning
  5. Moldy cheese
  6. Safely reheat leftovers
  7. Whole grains

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It's time to try meatless meals (2024)

FAQs

Why is going meatless good? ›

And people who don't eat meat, called vegetarians, generally eat fewer calories and less fat. They also tend to weigh less. And they have a lower risk of heart disease than nonvegetarians do. Research shows that people who eat red meat are at a higher risk of death from heart disease, stroke or diabetes.

What are the benefits of eating less meat? ›

Consuming less meat decreases the risk of:
  • Heart disease.
  • Stroke.
  • Obesity.
  • High blood pressure.
  • High cholesterol.
  • Type 2 diabetes.
  • Many cancers.
Dec 20, 2023

What would happen if everyone did meatless Monday? ›

You'll contribute to the health of the environment

According to extensive research, if everyone went vegetarian for just one day, the U.S would save 100 billion gallons of water, and we would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1.2 million tons of carbon dioxide.

Do you think eating only meat during a meal is healthy Why? ›

No controlled studies support claims that the carnivore diet can help eliminate health issues. It lacks beneficial nutrients, including fiber and plant compounds like antioxidants. It may be unsafe for some people. The carnivore diet consists entirely of meat and animal products, excluding all other foods.

Is meatless meat really healthier? ›

That, of course, depends on the meat alternative. Some plant-based meat options are nutrient-dense and primarily consist of minimally processed whole foods. But a lot of the most popular options on the market -- and especially the ones that look and taste like real meat -- aren't so great for you.

Why do people eat meatless? ›

People have many reasons for becoming vegetarians. Some want to eat more healthy foods. Others have religious or economic reasons or are concerned about animal welfare.

What does lack of meat do to your body? ›

You may feel tired and weak if you cut meat out of your diet. That's because you're missing an important source of protein and iron, both of which give you energy. The body absorbs more iron from meat than other foods, but it's not your only choice.

What happens if we all stop eating meat? ›

By one estimate, a complete phaseout of meat over 15 years would cut as much as one-third of all methane emissions and two-thirds of all nitrous oxide emissions. Water use would fall drastically. Biodiversity loss would slow.

Does eating less meat help you live longer? ›

Results: Our review of the 6 studies found the following trends: 1) a very low meat intake was associated with a significant decrease in risk of death in 4 studies, a nonsignificant decrease in risk of death in the fifth study, and virtually no association in the sixth study; 2) 2 of the studies in which a low meat ...

What day we Cannot eat meat? ›

A summary of current practice: On Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all Fridays of Lent: Everyone of age 14 and up must abstain from consuming meat. On Ash Wednesday and Good Friday: Everyone of age 18 to 59 must fast, unless exempt due to usually a medical reason.

Are meatless days healthy? ›

And because meat is a calorie-dense food, participating in Meatless Mondays makes it easier to lose or manage weight, greatly improving your overall health. Additionally, eating more fruits and vegetables means you get vitamins, minerals, and fiber that you won't find in meat.

Will not eating meat save the planet? ›

People who follow a plant-based diet account for 75 percent less in greenhouse gas emissions than those who eat more than 3.5 ounces of meat a day, and a vegan diet also results in significantly less harm to land, water and biodiversity, according to new research from the University of Oxford.

What does the Bible say about eating meat? ›

In Leviticus 11, the Lord speaks to Moses and Aaron and sets out which animals can be eaten and which cannot: “You may eat any animal that has a divided hoof and that chews the cud. There are some that only chew the cud or only have a divided hoof, but you must not eat them.

What is the healthiest meat to eat? ›

While meat can be a part of a healthy diet, not all sources are created equal. The leanest and healthiest meats to eat include poultry, pork, fish, and seafood. Eating a balanced diet is one of the keys to a healthy lifestyle, which means choosing various foods from different food groups, like proteins.

What happens if you eat only meat for a month? ›

As one might expect, carnivores face a whole host of nutrient deficiencies from cutting out all other food groups. Two of the biggest issues are a lack of fibre and carbohydrates, Virjee explained, which can lead to constipation, a common side effect of the diet.

What are the benefits of going off meat? ›

Keep reading to learn about some of the incredible benefits of not eating meat and what you can expect when you go plant-based.
  • You'll reduce inflammation in your body. ...
  • Your blood cholesterol levels will plummet. ...
  • You'll give your microbiome a makeover. ...
  • You'll change how your genes work.
Jan 12, 2016

What happens if you suddenly stop eating meat? ›

You may feel tired and weak if you cut meat out of your diet. That's because you're missing an important source of protein and iron, both of which give you energy. The body absorbs more iron from meat than other foods, but it's not your only choice.

What are some advantages of meatless meats? ›

Why Should You Switch from Meat for Plant-Based Proteins. Plant-based protein is tied to a number of positives for people and the planet. Swapping meat for plants reduces saturated fat, and increases the fiber and vitamin content of dishes.

Why is not eating meat good for the planet? ›

Over a quarter of the world's entire land area is used to graze or grow food for farm animals – food that could have been eaten by people in the first place. Just 1kg of chicken meat takes 3.2kg of crops to produce. If everyone ate a plant-based diet, we'd need 75% less farmland than we use today.

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