Vegetarianism, oddly enough, is not a modern invention. It has been known since ancient times. Today, about 800 million people around the world have chosen this way of eating. However, if you decide to become a vegetarian, you should be aware of the peculiarities of the diet and remember that you need to think carefully and comprehend everything to switch to such a nutrition system. Today we share tips with novice vegetarians in our section “Nutrition”. Vegetarianism is a kind of “diet” that excludes animal products. Its adherents claim that it makes the brain work, increases intelligence and prolongs life. Such famous people as Pythagoras, Voltaire, Seneca, Plato and Rousseau adhered to vegetarianism. Currently, a large number of people are also switching to a vegetarian diet. The reasons are different for everyone: someone does it for humane reasons, while others want to get rid of toxins and toxins. It is worth noting that discussions about the dangers and benefits of meat food do not stop. Some are in favor, because vegetarianism helps to fight extra pounds, because plant foods are much less fat and calories. Vegetable fiber predominates here, which can stimulate peristalsis and good functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Fruits and vegetables remove all toxins and waste from the body, improve metabolism. Vegetarians practically do not suffer from diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Such food contains substances, which are capable of killing all pathogenic bacteria. However, opponents of vegetarianism have no less arguments. They argue that with such a nutrition system it is impossible to make a balanced diet. Meat and fish are rich in amino acids, which are very important for the body. If they are not on the menu, then a person may lose vision or significantly worsen it. Plant foods do not solve the problem of protein deficiency. Proteins of plant origin are absorbed much worse than animal proteins. In addition, potato proteins are absorbed by the body by 62-68%, black bread – by 50-70%, and, for comparison, fish and meat proteins – by 98%. Thus, we cannot give clear recommendations “for” or “against”, but we are quite right to advise. So, Tip number 1. Everyone should understand this for yourself and listen to yourself. At the same time, be sure to pay attention to your state of health and age. Switching to vegetarianism should be deliberate, so as not to harm the body. Remember that vegetarianism is not only a rejection of animal products, but also a healthy lifestyle, so you need to give up bad habits. Tip number 2. To maintain optimal levels of iron and calcium in your body, add soy milk, mushrooms, nuts, orange juice, green vegetables, buckwheat and legumes to your diet. Such foods are high in protein, minerals and vitamins, they can replace dairy products, meat and fish. Also take vitamins D and B12 regularly. Tip #3. Eat small meals, but more often, because plant foods are digested faster (except legumes). Council number 4. Eat only good quality fruits and vegetables, and it is better to prepare salads immediately before use so that the vitamins do not have time to evaporate. Instead of sugar, use honey and dried fruits. The menu should be as varied as possible. Tip #5. Chew food well, so it will be better absorbed. And in winter, be sure – at least a little – warm up. This will help avoid digestive problems.