Is it okay to be a vegetarian and play sports...?

Question

I play tennis everyday about 2-4 hours a day. I sweat a lot and burn a lot of calories. Would it be healthy if I became a vegetarian? What foods could I eat that have a lot of protein and can keep my level of energy high?

Answer 1

Of course. You could go online to find more foods and a proper diet. You could get proteins from beans and peanuts. You can increase your energy level as well by eating carbohydrates.

Answer 2

I had a similar problem when I first dropped the meat products. But being a vegetarian and a serious athlete is no problem if you know what you're doing. And by this, I mean get your protein in other ways and eat healthy overall. Don't overeat carbs (bread products...) because you'll gain weight. A great way for vegetarians to get their protein is through SOY! Soy will be your best friend...there are so many products made from it, like soy burgers, soy milk, and tofu. All are excellent, low-calorie protein sources. If you want that extra push before tennis practice or a match, eat a protein bar like a balance bar or a powerbar. These are more hefty if you're watching you're weight, but the protein there is also abundant.

Being a vegetarian is never an un-healthy decision, and as one myself, I can tell you this: it's great! I really feel like I'm doing something great and standing up for something I believe in. Good luck!

Answer 3

I agree with the other writers in the fact that vegetarian diet is great. I think you'll have more energy -- I know when I did the switch.

One thing to be concerned about, however, is getting enough iron. I know I went iron deficient fairly quickly when I first started. I highly recommend you take a multivitamin with minerals.

Active people need iron and you'll notice iron deficiency in regards to energy level, lower immunity and feeling cold all the time. Meat tends to be a good source of iron, so it is helpful to get the iron from other sources. Vegetables look good on paper for iron, but it is much harder to absorb.

I wouldn't worry too much about protein. There are some great products out there and I've never had a problem of not having enough protein.

Good luck.

Answer 4

A vegetarian diet can be just as healthy as a diet with animal protein. The most important factor is that you consume enough of the essential fatty acids needed to sustain health, for example soy products. Other foods that are high in protein are nuts, legumes, cheese from milk or soy, or some packaged vege protein products available in the grocery.

Answer 5

You shouldn't have much of a problem. Nuts are high in protein and calories, and you can eat a lot of soy foods, that should be enough.

Answer 6

absolutely... the only nutrient found deficient in a vegans diet is usualy vitamin B-12 all others are possible. As long as your calories in equals your expired calories. The best way to start a new diet like this is to consult a RD (Registered Dietitian).
Best of luck!