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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  2. A Book: The Mayo Clinic Diet Bundle
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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

What is it called when you don't want to eat meat? ›

About vegetarian and vegan diets

A vegetarian diet is one that does not include any meat or seafood. However, there are many variations to this – some people following a vegetarian diet may eat eggs and dairy foods, while others may avoid one or both.

What happens to your body when you go meatless? ›

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.

Why I no longer eat meat? ›

You may have a reduced appetite due to infections, some mental health conditions, medical conditions, or taking certain medications. A reduced appetite occurs when you have a decreased desire to eat. It may also be known as loss of appetite. The medical term for this is anorexia.

Why does a person choose a meatless diet? ›

Some want to eat more healthy foods. Others have religious or economic reasons or are concerned about animal welfare. “Vegetarian diets are also more sustainable and environmentally sound than diets that rely heavily on meat, poultry and fish,” says NIH nutritionist Dr.

What happens to your body when you 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 happens to your skin when you stop eating meat? ›

It's worth mentioning that some individuals who regularly eat meat can actually experience acne breakouts if they suddenly stop consuming meat. The body is complex, and there's no way to know for sure how eating meat or cutting it out will affect one's skin until enough time has gone by.

Do you live longer without meat? ›

Some studies do not show that vegetarians live significantly longer. 25,29 Two studies of people who consumed very little meat showed an average life-span increase of 3.6 years. 39 A huge study of Seventh Day Adventists who ate little or no meat showed longevity increases of 7.28 years in men and 4.42 years in women.

What happens to a vegans body when they eat meat? ›

In most cases, your body will process the animal product appropriately, even if you're experiencing mild discomfort. If you find that you are one of the rare people who does experience an allergic reaction, take appropriate measures to consult a physician or emergency doctor to manage your symptoms.

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.

Does not eating meat age you? ›

While there are a variety of health benefits associated with following a vegan diet, eating a vegan diet won't make you age faster or slower in and of itself. If you're considering making the switch to a plant-based diet, here's what you need to know about the effects of veganism on aging and overall health.

Why do I feel better after not eating meat? ›

Cutting back on meat and eating a predominantly plant-based diet may help with weight management, protect against heart disease and certain cancers, and support a healthy gut. Eating less meat in favor of plants may also have beneficial environmental impacts.

How long does it take your body to adjust to no meat? ›

Adjusting your body to a plant-based diet might take up to four to six weeks. The time it takes to adjust depends on a variety of factors, including the person's current eating habits, the completeness of the diet change, and the rate at which the change is being implemented.

What is the healthiest diet in the world? ›

Mediterranean Diet, DASH Diet, and MIND Diets Are the Best Diets of 2024. All three diets are highly recommended by doctors because of their known health benefits. “The Mediterranean eating plan doesn't have a set calorie range or portion guidelines, which is why it can fit almost anyone's needs.

What are humans supposed to eat naturally? ›

This could explain why fruits and vegetables are not only good for us but are vital to our survival. Indeed, we're one of the few species so adapted to a plant-based diet that we could actually die from not eating fruits and vegetables, from the vitamin C-deficiency disease, scurvy.

What are the negatives of a plant-based diet? ›

Plant-based diets carry some risk of inadequate protein, vitamin, and mineral intake. But these risks are readily overcome by choosing the right vegetarian foods and, when necessary, supplements. For example, soy, quinoa, and nuts are good sources of protein, and tofu, lentils, and spinach are good sources of iron.

What is another word for not eating meat? ›

veg·​e·​tar·​i·​an ˌve-jə-ˈter-ē-ən. Synonyms of vegetarian. 1. : a person who does not eat meat : someone whose diet consists wholly of vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, and sometimes eggs or dairy products. 2.

Do pescatarians eat chicken? ›

Pescatarians have a lot in common with vegetarians. They eat fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, whole grains, beans, eggs, and dairy, and stay away from meat and poultry. But there's one way they part company from vegetarians: Pescatarians eat fish and other seafood.

Do pescatarians eat eggs? ›

What you can eat on a pescatarian diet. Pescatarians can eat all types of seafood, including fish, shellfish, and squid. They can also eat eggs and dairy. Some pescatarian diets also include plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and tofu.

Why do I have an aversion to eating meat? ›

We avoid food considered too close to us, or too distant, such as animals that feed on rotting matter. In Western societies that tend to present meat in a less recognisable form, organs such as offal, viscera, brains and eyes remind us of their primary function and hence arouse repulsion.

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