Dieting is not easy, it could get very overwhelming if you try to pack in a lot in a day. This is why many people develop cold feet just before taking the plunge. Even nutritionists often say that it is not a wise idea to try something completely alien and absurd. You could try with gradual changes and incorporate all things seasonal and local in your diet. This way, you do not shock your body and are also able to lose weight in a much more effective and sustainable manner. Indians are no stranger to vegetarian food. The country houses millions of vegetarians, vegans and plant-based diet followers. While it is tough to yield protein from the limited sources available, it is, of course, not impossible. In fact, many of these vegetables, fruits, grains and pulses bring a gamut of nutrients to the board.
(Also Read: 8 Lunches From 8 Union Territories, Discover Culture Through Food)
Clinical nutritionist Rupali Datta says, "vegetarian food is extremely nutritious, number of studies have proved that all the things that help protect us against disease, be it antioxidants, fibre, minerals and vitamins are available to us through plant-based foods. Even the proteins we get from plant-based foods are very low in saturated fats. These diets are protective against heart diseases, diabetes and also various types of cancers."
(Also Read: 11 Desi Recipes To Try For Weight Loss Diet - For Breakfast, Lunch And Dinner)
So, if you are a vegetarian or are trying to cut back on meat and eggs, here's an easy meal plan you can try to manage your weight. It must be understood that all bodies have separate requirements depending upon their weight, height and underlying conditions. This meal plan should be used as a reference only, and expert advice should be sought before any major alterations to the diet.
Easy Indian Vegetarian Diet Plan For Weight Loss
Breakfast
You can have a simple moong dal chilawith dahi, or a whole-grain veg sandwich made with veggies. Instead of jams and spreads loaded with preservatives, you can use chutneys.
Moong dal chila is a crepe-like dish made with moong dal
Morning Snack
Around 11 a.m-12 p.m when you are slightly hungry, you can tuck into some fresh fruits or nuts.
Lunch
Remember to take your roti, dal, sabzi, dahi in moderation. Choose whole grains, whole dals over split dals, and a good amount of vegetables. "It is a good idea to fill one-fourth of your plate with grains, one fourth with dal protein, half with vegetables, dahi or milk on the side, finish it off with a fruit", says Rupali Datta.
Dal fry is one of North India's favourite veg preparations (Photo Credit: Istock)
Evening Snack
Some roasted makhanas or a delicious fruit chaat could curb those untimely cravings.
Dinner
You can keep the dinner comparatively light. Home-made khichdi is an option, you can add a whole lot of veggies to your khichdi and even replace rice with something rich in fibre like bajra, Here is a bajra khichdi, you may like.
Here are some of our best vegetarian recipes. Try it soon and let us know how you liked them.
(This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.)