New Veggie

[Funkyveggie]

I want to become veggie but I'm worried that I will be more prone to coughs and colds. Is this true? If so, what should I do to prevent such illnesses?
Thanks
Funkyveggie

[Kitty15]

veggies are much healthier than meatys!!!!

[Cheese on Toast]

You've got nothing to worry about Funkyveggie! I've been veggie for 15 years and never get more than one cold a year *knocks on wood*. Just make sure you eat a balanced diet (get a little protein - eggs, cheese, beans, pulses - and a little iron - spinach, beans, nuts) and you'll be a funky vegetarian in no time at all!

Good luck and welcome to team veggie

[Rachel]

Hi Funkyveggie
If you're worried about eating a healthy balanced diet, check out http://www.vegsoc.org/page.aspx?pid=783 for advice.
It's much easier than you might think to get all your nutrients on a vegetarian diet, but it's always wise to evaluate what you're eating and make sure you're not missing out on anything important, especially if you're avoiding food groups within the veggiesphere for health or taste reasons. You'll find that section of the Vegsoc website also has factsheets on individual nutrients.
Include lots of lovely Cook Veg recipes to keep it interesting as well as nourishing...
Good luck!
Rachel - Cook Veg

[Funkyveggie]

Hi Funkyveggie
If you're worried about eating a healthy balanced diet, check out Vegetarian Society - Introduction to Vegetarian Nutrition for advice.
It's much easier than you might think to get all your nutrients on a vegetarian diet, but it's always wise to evaluate what you're eating and make sure you're not missing out on anything important, especially if you're avoiding food groups within the veggiesphere for health or taste reasons. You'll find that section of the Vegsoc website also has factsheets on individual nutrients.
Include lots of lovely Cook Veg recipes to keep it interesting as well as nourishing...
Good luck!
Rachel - Cook Veg

Thanks Rachel!

I've been doing well at cutting down meat and have been eating iron-rich foods like curly kale (yum). I've decided to continue eating fish and cut down on red meat and chicken.
My energy levels have been the same so far but haven't had a cold yet

I'll be sure to grab a copy of the mag next time it's out

[juker]

Its not going to stop you getting coughs and colds, but its also not a contributing factor

Make sure you keep up with a healthy varied diet and you will be fine

Some people say that dairy products encourage phlegm and therefore is bad for you when you have coughs etc, but this is a myth and not a proven fact

[Paul125]

You need not to worry. How can you affected from cough and cold for being veggie.
Vegetarians are more healthy than other because they eat the pure and natural components of balanced foods.

[ZoriWser]

Yes i agree that the vegetarians are more fit and healthy so you no need to worry you are on a good decisions.
carry on good luck.