Meat replacements

In previous post Khatia Caroline asked me if I could write an article about the meat replacement products, so I decided to explain today how carefully we should be when we decide to replace meat with other vegetables so our body still will be getting enough nutritions and vitamins for healthy life.

Some people choose not to eat meat because of perceived health benefits, or for religious, economic or ethical reasons. If non-meat eaters include fish, milk, or eggs in theirs daily food, they do not have to be especially vigilant about getting all the necessities of a balanced eating. However, if they eat only non-animal products, there are a few things they have to watch out for. Such as:

1. Meat is called complete protein because it contains all the amino acids the body needs. Soy beans are the only plant source of complete protein. In the next post I will write some good and tasty soy beans recipe. Other legumes, nuts and seeds and whole grains, which are good source of protein, need to be eaten in combination to supply the full range of amino acids.

2. Vitamin B12 is not available from plant sources. Without animal products in the food a supplement with B12 is required.

3. Iron, Calcium and Zinc are all available from plant sources, but various things some food contain can prevent the body from absorbing the minerals. Consuming Iron rich foods with vitamin C can increase the absorption of Iron. Iron is essential to maintain healthy blood and prevent anaemia. Good food sources of Iron include leafy vegetables, potatoes, peas and whole grains. Now calcium. You will find calcium in soya beans, broccoli (which I doubt is sold in Georgian market), nuts, seeds and dried food. Calcium is needed for lots of body processes, but particularly for healthy teeth and healthy bones. Now it is still true that diary is the easiest form of Calcium and there are a number of things that inhibit the absorption of Calcium from plant products, so if you decide to go without dairy altogether, please study up on it.