Myth: On a vegetarian diet, you are sure to lose weight and become healthier.

Answer: Busted!

Some vegetarians, just like non-vegetarians, can make food choices that contribute to weight gain. For example, they may eat large amounts of high-fat, high-calorie foods or foods with little or no nutritional value, such as vegetarian prepared/frozen foods that are high in fat or sugar.

Vegetarian diets should be as carefully planned as non-vegetarian diets to make sure they are balanced. A vegetarian diet can be a healthy way to eat. The key is to consume a variety of foods and the right amount of foods to meet daily energy and nutrient needs.

Additional nutrition information can be found at: http://missourifamilies.org.

Contributor: Maude Harris, Nutrition and Health Education Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, harrismau@missouri.edu, 573.545.3516