So you want to try a vegan diet, but you think it’s just too overwhelming to change your entire diet? Not to worry. You can actually start your journey to a healthier lifestyle without having to give up your favorite items or ignore those cravings! In fact, there are several amazing ways to make vegan substitutes that your taste buds will never notice.
Here are 10 easy substitutes for a healthier diet:
Choose Agave Nectar over Honey
When you’re going vegan, it can be intimidating to look at the things you may have to give up. Luckily, sweets aren’t one of them! Sugar and honey may be out, but agave nectar has all the sweetness you’re looking for, with none of the guilt.
Add Veggies to Your Soups
A great way to increase your nutritional intake is to add vegetables like corn, peas or carrots to any soup you eat. You’ll be doing something good, and you’ll never notice a taste difference. A cool vegetable soup is perfect for summer, and you won’t even miss the meat.
Substitute Lentils for Ground Beef
Yes, you heard me. Lentils are quick and easy to prepare and they pack a punch when it comes to nutrients. Because of their texture and taste, lentils make an excellent substitute for recipes that require ground beef. Simply use ¾ cup raw lentils in place of a pound of ground beef. You need less lentils since they will expand when cooked.
Use Applesauce Instead of Eggs
While many recipes call for eggs, you might be surprised to find the variety of substitutes you can use instead that are vegan friendly. For starters, ¼ cup of applesauce replaces one egg in most sweet desserts. In other recipes, try chia seeds as an egg replacement.
Choose Quinoa and Other Whole Grains
Though rice is a delicious carbohydrate, there are better, even tastier, choices. If you haven’t jumped on the quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) bandwagon, you’re missing out on a delicious treat! It’ll fill you up like meat, and will keep you full longer.
Munch on Veggies and Fruit Instead of Bread
We all know how easy it is to reach for bread, but that usually contains eggs and milk, so eat some fresh fruits and veggies instead. You can eat a lot of them and your scale will never know the difference. Just make sure you always keep your fridge well-stocked with the good stuff!
Use Lettuce for Your Sandwiches
Lettuce leaves can be used to wrap around meats, cheeses and other veggies in lieu of a traditional sandwich bread. Not only will your “sandwich” be lighter, but it will also be crunchy, healthy and satisfying. For extra benefits, use Romaine lettuce instead of iceberg. It’s packed with the nutrients you need.
Never worry that you have few tasty options when it comes to being a better steward of your body and land! By making small changes, you can see big rewards in yourself.
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