MyPlate Vegetarian Guide

A family member has recently made the choice to eat a primarily vegetarian diet. The decision was brought about by a health scare that threatened surgery. While this family member was told that they might be able to control the issue by reducing meat in their diet and increasing fresh fruits and vegetables, they found it easier to just eat mainly vegetarian fare. This can prove a challenge at times for this individual and their other family members, but they seem to be up to the challenge. Thankfully, the USDA MyPlate website offers numerous guidelines on special diets and how to make sure you get all the daily recommended nutrients. The site shows that protein sources for vegetarians include nuts, soy products, beans, lentils and rice. For a modified vegetarian diet, such as our family member has chosen, milk and egg products can be added as good sources of protein as well. The MyPlate website also provides a printable ten tips Nutrition Education Series on healthy eating for vegetarians. For more information on a vegetarian eating pattern visit www.choosemyplate.gov.