What is the natural diet for humans ? "
" Are humans herbivores ? "
Both humans and herbivores have carbohydrate digestive enzymes in our saliva, while carnivores and omnivores don't.
Our nails are flattened, and, unlike carnivores, we don't have sharp, pointed teeth. Most significantly, both carnivores and omnivores have a colon that is short, simple and smooth, and their stomach acidity is less than pH 1 with food in the stomach. Humans, like herbivores, have a very long, complex and sacculated colon, and our stomach acidity is around pH 4 to 5 with food in the stomach.
Our long intestine length is designed for a high fiber diet (available only from plant food). Meat does not digest well in such an environment, and often turns toxic, which contributes to colon cancer.
Carnivores enjoy the act of savaging and the scent of blood. Sharks, for example, are highly aroused by the scent of blood. On the other hand, we, humans, cannot tolerate the sounds and cries of animals being killed .. the mere sight of blood is so disturbing to us.
A healthy vegetarian diet can promote :
Good health and longevity
Vitality for the young and old
An improved immune system
Weight control
A healthier heart, liver and kidneys
Clarity of mind
Peaceful temperament
Prevention of overall poor health and the many life-style diseases is of primary importance today. Cancers, heart diseases, stroke, hypertension and diabetes do not appear overnight. They develop gradually. Their incidence can be reduced and slowed. The choice of our food today can make a great difference in our health tomorrow.
Researchers have had success in reversing some heart diseases with a low-fat vegetarian diet as part of an overall life-style program.
Colorectal cancer is linked to meat consumption and a diet high in fats. Some studies suggest links between meat consumption and other cancers as well.
A study in the U.S. found that vegetarians and vegans (vegetarians who do not consume eggs or dairy products) had significantly lower cholesterol levels than meat eaters.
Our human immune system is our best weapon against disease. However, it requires the appropriate raw materials and a supportive environment offunction optimally. Our diet and life-style can strengthen or weaken our immune system. Unleash the self-healing potential present in everyone of us with a healthy vegetarian diet.
PROTEIN :It is virtually impossible to be deficient in protein on a vegetarian diet, as long as caloric needs are met and a wide variety of plant foods are consumed.
Sources of protein : soya products, legumes, whole grains, vegetables, nuts, seeds etc .
CALCIUM : Calcium is abundant in plant foods. Our bodies absorb more than 50% of the calcium present in many plant foods, while only 32% of the calcium in milk is absorbed.
Sources of calcium : some dark-green leafy vegetables like spinach, water cress, kalian, broccoli, cooked dried beans, soya products, nuts, seeds, figs, seaweed etc.
MAGNESIUM : Magnesium is essential for bone mineralization, building of proteins " enzyme action and nerve transmission. It is also important for proper heart function.
Sources of Magnesium :nuts, legumes, whole grains, green leafy vegetables etc.
ZINC :An important trace mineral found in dry cooked beans and whole grains. Zinc is a component of many enzymes supporting the metabolism of amino acids, production of genetic material, transport of Vitamin A and prevention of birth defects.
Sources of Zinc :tempeh, lentils, garbanzo beans, sunflower seeds etc.
IRON : Almost all vegetables have higher iron content per calorie than meat, eggs or fish. Although iron deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies in the world, long-term studies have shown that vegetarians are no more likely to suffer iron deficiencies than non-vegetarians.
Sources of Iron : blackstrap molasses, brown sugar, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, sea vegetables, dried fruits, whole and enriched grains etc.
FIBER :Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet and comprises soluble and insoluble types. Typical soluble fiber includes gums, pectins and mucilage and is important to lower blood cholesterol, and reduce fat absorption by the body. Insoluble fiber is responsible for slowing both starch hydrolysis and glucose absorption. Increased fiber combats constipation and overweight
Sources of fiber : soluble fiber .. fruits (apples, citrus fruits), oats, barley, legumes ; insoluble fiber .. wheat bran, whole grain breads and cereals, vegetables etc.
Source: " www.vegetarian-society.org "