News14.com

  77º

You are not signed in  |  Sign in here  |  Help

You're viewing a lite version of news14.com

Time Warner Cable customers: Sign in with your TWC ID for video access.

Get my TWC ID. | Get TWC service. | Read the FAQ.


06/03/2012 02:51 PM

Do Your Part: Go Meatless Mondays

  To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.

When you stop and really think about all the meat you consume in just one day, it can start to really add up. Then, add on the meat everyone else is eating everyday...and all of that totals up to quite a hefty toll on the environment.

But, there are easy ways to Do Your Part to incorporate more meatless meals into diet.

One place to start? Meatless Mondays.

Having a dedicated vegetarian day is good for you for so many reasons. Eating meals with nutritious fruits and vegetables like these will cut down on the amount of saturated fat you eat, help you lose weight, and lower your risk for diseases like cancer and diabetes.

And plant-based diets are a whole lot healthier for our planet too.

Here’s what you need to know: 20 percent of all man-made greenhouse gases comes from the global meat industry. And, just in America, 40 percent of all the pesticides used are used in meat production.

Plus, it takes 2,500 gallons of water to produce just one pound of ground beef!

So, if you are on board to cut out meat once a week, you’ll need a smart grocery shopping plan. Inspiration is everywhere!

There are countless websites and cookbooks dedicated to vegetarian fare. Have fun experimenting.

Try substituting things like tofu for meat in some of your family’s favorite dishes. You can also find delicious veggie burgers, sausage or even "chicken" nuggets that aren’t chicken.

Remember, what you and your family eat has a direct impact on your health and the health of our planet.

If you want to make the best choice for both, meatless Mondays are a perfect way to Do Your Part.