On dietary changes - or why and how to reduce meat consumption

Who of you remembers when your mother or grandmother used to say "eat the meat, leave the potatoes"? This is an iconic text for many of us, which today no longer... applies. We now know that excessive meat consumption can increase the risk of certain diseases.

A healthy diet that is not high in meat can protect us from developing type II diabetes, heart disease and also neurodegenerative diseases. It is worth knowing that by limiting our meat consumption, we are also taking care of our planet.

What does eating meat have to do with protecting the environment?

Industrial farming involves huge water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This means that reducing meat consumption affects:

• reducing greenhouse gas emissions;
• water saving;
• maintaining biodiversity;
• protecting the environment from chemical compounds that enrich fodder and fertilise farmland.

How to reduce meat consumption? 

Take small steps towards your goal to experience new and interesting flavours. It turns out that your attitude makes a huge difference to food changes. That's why we encourage you to apply the following three principles.

• Think of it as a new adventure or even a challenge. A meatless dinner at a restaurant with friends can be the first step towards your adventure. Maybe you'll like something special and then you'll be happy to start cooking new food. The next step could be three days without meat, or even a day. Listen to your body and have fun with your new diet!
• Try new flavours. New foods should taste good to you and be enjoyable to try. So if you feel that a particular flavour is not for you, don't worry - it's perfectly OK. There is a whole range of spices that you might like. Try, discover, test. That's what life is all about! 
• Give yourself time. Nothing for now and nothing for now. Changing habits and tastes involves time. Getting to know new products and spices will not happen overnight. If you don't feel fully ready, don't give up meat completely - do it wisely. You yourself know best what your body needs, listen to it well. There's nothing wrong with some changes taking more time. Calmness is supposed to be your buddy, then it will definitely work.

The benefits of your new diet will certainly be noticeable. Your mood may change for the better and you will feel energised and empowered. In the process, you will take care of your health, but you will also be doing something good for the planet.