As more people begin to prioritise their health and wellbeing, the debate over dietary choices has intensified. One recurring question is: Does a vegetarian or non-vegetarian lifestyle offer greater health benefits?
Health experts agree that both vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets offer unique advantages, but the key to optimal nutrition lies in tailoring your dietary choices to your individual needs. For instance, a young, underweight individual may benefit from the protein-rich options found in a non-vegetarian diet. While a middle-aged individual might benefit more from a vegetarian diet of heart-healthy foods. Despite ongoing debates, the trend towards vegetarianism and veganism continues to gain momentum in contemporary society.
This increase, especially in Western countries like the USA is not without reason. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1 in 8 people are living with obesity. The major reasons for the increase in obesity and health concerns worldwide is the increased consumption of highly processed foods and the lack of a balanced diet. A vegetarian lifestyle has many health benefits and is particularly important for those suffering from weight-related issues or heart conditions.
Dharana at Shillim, a luxury wellbeing retreat located in the Sahyadri Mountain Range, has always acknowledged nutrition as one of the pillars of a person’s holistic wellbeing. We guide you on how to consciously prioritise your wellbeing and provide personalised programmes that cater to your specific health needs in the healing embrace of nature. While Dharana does have specific programmes likeDharana Sustainable Weight Management, the importance of a balanced diet is emphasised across all the health retreat experiences.
Your Journey to Conscious Being begins with non-invasive testing from which our wellbeing experts provide a personalised Dincharyaand dosha-specific diet that prioritise rejuvenation and gut healing. The holistic retreat, we embrace an earth-to-table philosophy, where every ingredient is sustainably sourced from our organic farms to ensure the freshest, most nourishing meals. Our approach to nutrition involves seasonal diets and focuses on balance and harmony through the “4 kingdoms” of nutrition. The plant kingdom forms the foundation with fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and herbs. We do give a nod to the animal kingdom, offering pure, protein-packed goodness. The fungi kingdom, with mushrooms and truffles, adds depth and flavour to savoury dishes, while the innovative kingdom of bacteria and yeast transforms ingredients into probiotic-rich dishes, promoting gut health and digestion.
At our meditation and yoga retreat, we understand the value of natural and organic produce and the health benefits of a vegetarian lifestyle. You will be guided on how to follow a sustainably sourced, seasonal diet and understand if a vegetarian-based balanced diet is correct for you.
Some of the benefits of adopting a vegetarian diet include :
1. Good for Heart Health
A plant-based diet is naturally lower in cholesterol and unhealthy fats, helping to reduce blood pressure and lower the risk of heart disease. Rich in fibre and antioxidants, it supports overall cardiovascular health.
2. Lower Risk of Diabetes
It improves metabolism and helps stabilise blood sugar levels. Fewer processed foods contribute to better blood sugar control, lowering the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes.
3. Easier Weight Management
Vegetarian meals are typically lower in calories, making it easier to manage weight. They also boost metabolism and help you burn calories more efficiently.
4. Reduced Disease Risk
Vegetarians avoid risks associated with meat, like foodborne illnesses (salmonella). Studies also show plant-based diets lower the risk of diabetes, types of cancers and help alleviate symptoms of conditions like asthma.
5. Ethical and Sustainable
A vegetarian diet is kinder to animals and more environmentally sustainable. This interconnectedness promotes responsible food sourcing and minimises food waste.
Prioritise your health through personal care and Ayurvedic knowledge. Rejuvenate with a comfortable stayas Dharana at Shillim guides you on living a healthier life through balanced diets. Begin your wellbeing journey by calling us at0124-4344344, or book your stay here!.