Vegetarian diets can promote weight loss because they focus on nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and soy. Vegan diets go even further and cut out calorie-rich foods like cheese. But being vegetarian doesn’t automatically mean consuming fewer calories.

In philosopher’s terms it is being treated as a means to human ends and not as an end in itself. This is a clear violation of the animal’s rights. No matter how humanely an animal is treated in the process, raising and killing it for food remains morally wrong.

6 Ways Being a Vegetarian Could Seriously Mess You Up

• Low Vitamin D. Yes, you can get vitamin D from plant sources and supplements.
• Not Enough Zinc. Beef and lamb are two of the highest sources of zinc.
• Anemia. Animal proteins are a prime source of iron, which helps your blood cells transport nutrients throughout your bod.
• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Eating Disorders.

Eat regular meals with whole grains, fruit, vegetables and lean protein, get more exercise and keep a food journal. Fairly simple.

Additionally, check out these tips for how to burn belly fat in less than a week.

1. Include aerobic exercises in your daily routine.
2. Reduce refined carbs.
3. Add fatty fish to your diet.
4. Start the day with a high protein breakfast.
5. Drink enough water.
6. Reduce your salt intake.
7. Consume soluble fiber.

By the end of the study, the plant-based diet group averaged an 18.7% increase in their after-meal calorie burn. They also saw an average weight loss of about 14 pounds (lb). Additionally, the vegan diet group experienced a decrease in insulin resistance and a reduction in body fat.

While most plant-based foods will help with weight loss and eliminating belly fat, some are especially fat loss–promoting: berries, broccoli, quinoa, black beans, and dates.

In Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine’s (PCRM) studies, average weight loss after transitioning to a whole-food, plant-based diet is about a pound a week. Some people, though, may lose two or three pounds a week, if they also stay off the simple carbs and sweets.

Plant-based diets can help you lose weight and keep it off because they are packed with fiber, which helps fill you up, without adding extra calories. Aim for 40 grams of fiber a day, which is easy to do when you move vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans to the center of your plate.