Question

the Fad Food Routine for a Flexitarian Diet

Be sure to include:

What is the premise of the food routine presented by the author or originator of the diet?

Describe the details of the nutrition aspects and the exercise components?

Breakdown the macronutrients of the food routine, give percentages if possible, ex fat 50%, 20% protein and 30% carb, this may not be available for all diets.

Pros of the diet- list at least 2

Cons of the diet, what is lacking in the food routine? List at least 2.

Are there parts of the food routine that are “half-truths”?

Is there one population that would do better with this food routine?

Would your team recommend this food routine to someone?

Answer 1

1. Dawn Jackson Blatner created the flexitarian diet which includes taking vegetarian diet and animal foods in moderation. It helps people to eat healthy while enjoying animal foods. The important aspect is to include whole plant based nutrients giving importance to plant protiens rather than animal proteins.

2. The important principles in a flexitarian diet are:

• Eat more fruits, whole grains, vegetables and legumes
• Include more proteins from plant sources instead of animal sources
• Include meat and animal products from time to time
• Eat more natural food and less processed food
• Limit use of sugar and sweetners

Plant foods to be included are non- starchy vegetables such as greens, sprouts, carrots, cauliflower etc., Starchy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, herbs, condiments and beverages. Plant based milk alternatives such as almond, coconut and soy milk are used. Animal products such as meat, egg, poultry, fish and milk are used. Exercise is definitely recommended with alteast 30 minutes of exercise everday.

3. As the name suggests it is a flexible diet and does not draw specific lines. The important aspect is to get more plant based nutrients. Flexible, here means the number of meatless days and more plant based food. It is divided into different levels as:

Beginner: 2 meatless days per week (26 ounces of meat or poultry per week)
Advanced: 3-4 meatless days per week (18 ounces of meat or poultry per week)
Expert: 5 meatless days per week (9 ounces of meat or poultry per week)

4. It is flexible and includes animal foods. It is cost effective and saves money. Helps in reducing weight and health related effects of obesity.

5. Cons

Risk of Iron and B12 deficiency because of less animal foods.

May feel deprived of animal foods and eat junk foods

6. Although it is flexitarian diet it has restrictions on meat and animal based protein.

7. People who would like to reduce weight but can't skip on animal foods may benefit from this diet.

8. Yes this food can be recommended for weight loss and reduce the effects of obesity. But should monitor for nutritional deficiencies for iron and vitamin B12.