Tofu, the Other White Meat

  • By admin
  • 14 October, 2012
  • Comments Off on Tofu, the Other White Meat

Vegetarianism has weight in many debates and issues facing Americans today. Food choice affects cost of living, general health, obesity rates, the environment and industrial and economic growth. With such far-reaching consequences to food choice, it seems odd that most Americans put so little thought into the decision.

Food and health have become increasing important issues in America. Rising obesity, heart disease and cancer rates in the United States have made many people question the best way to stay healthy.

You Wouldn’t be Able to Think Without Meat

Healthy eating includes a balanced intake of saturated fats, vitamins, minerals, and calories. This can be done on a strict vegetarian diet or an omnivore diet.

According to Beef Bites by the National Cattleman Beef Association, Beef is the best source of saturated fats, protein, zinc and vitamin B12.

Meat and dairy are also an unwanted source of antibiotics.

According to the New York Times “We Are What We Eat,” 70% of antibiotics in the U.S. are used during meat production. These antibiotics remain in meat and dairy when it is consumed and can lead to antibiotics being less effective in humans.

Growing environmental concerns make us question what form of food production is the most sustainable.

Water conservation is a good reason to increase your veggie intake.

Is Meat Worth ALL the Costs

According to Marcia Kreith, “Water Inputs in California Food Production,” the top three foods to use the most water in production are boneless steak, hamburger and butter. The three foods that use the least amount of water to produce are lettuce, tomatoes and oranges.

Cattle production is the best way to conserve America’s prairies.

According to National Cattleman’s Beef Association, “The Environment and Cattle Production: Fact Sheet,” Approximately 85 percent of U.S. grazing lands area unsuitable for producing crops. Grazing animals on this land more than doubles the area that can be used to produce food. Cattle play a valuable role in the ecosystem by converting the forages humans cannot consume into a nutrient-dense food.”

There is no right choice when it comes to being a vegetarian or an omnivore. The right decision depends on your location and your personal health goals. Consider medical history, your natural resources and the issues most important to you before you decide what to eat.

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