More and more people are trying plant-based versions of their favorite foods these days, and there is no denying that vegetarian and vegan-centered diets are trendy. While eating red meat isn’t inherently bad once in a while, we spoke with nutritionists and health experts about several reasons to be wary of it if you’re trying to lose weight. Read on for tips and to learn how consuming it in moderation is key if you’d like to keep it in your diet.
One Potential Hinderance for Weight Loss— Saturated Fat
Red meat can be potentially detrimental for health for two primary reasons, nutritionist Lisa Richards tells us. “One, depending on the cut of meat, you are likely to consume more saturated fat than is beneficial for heart health,” says Richards. She adds that secondly, it is often “consumed without regard to moderation,” which can place you “at risk for heart disease.”
When comparing it to other kinds of meat, nutritionist for Bellabeat, Jennifer Allura, CDN, says that red meats can be “significantly higher in fat” than lean or white meat. “This makes it harder to digest— it can cause bloating and can also leave you feeling sluggish or drained after eating for hours or even a full day,” says Allura. “Replacing your red meat cravings with plant-based substitutes [if you want to] can dramatically lower your risk of heart disease.”
Certified weight loss coach Jody Braverman, NASM-CPT, NASM-FNS, PN1 is a vegetarian, and also says that eating meat is fine in moderation. “I don’t think there’s anything unhealthy about eating meat now and again if you choose lean cuts,” says Braverman who offers a solution for those who do still want meat in their diet.
“Unless you have a diagnosed health condition that might be exacerbated by eating meat, or you just don’t feel good after you eat meat, eating some lean beef once or twice a week in the correct serving size for your calorie needs isn’t going to harm weight loss,” adds Braverman.
If you do, however, want to eat less red meat and add more plant-based substitutes while on your quest for weight loss, we have you covered with more vegetarian-related expert tips below.
Tips For Plant-Based Alternatives
Personal trainer and health expert Jake Dickson notes that vegetarians can't simply skip meat and protein— they need to replace it with other healthy options when trying to lose weight.
"Vegetarians should make sure that they are eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and plant protein," says Dickson. For example, he suggests a bed of greens topped with lentils, vegetables, and avocado to make for a "well-rounded meal."
Overall, if you're trying to lose weight and want to continue eating red meat in your diet, consume it in moderation. If you'd rather choose plant-based substitutes, just make sure you're getting the nutrients, protein and overall nourishment that your body needs whether weight loss is your goal, or not.
