5 Ways Flexitarianism Boosts Your Mental Health

The Dawn of Flexitarian Realisation

One morning, as the sun peeked through the curtains, I sat at my breakfast table with a curious realisation. While munching on a vegetarian sandwich, my mind wandered over the meals of the past week: a good deal of vegetables, fruits, and grains, interspersed with the occasional chicken thigh and bite of pork sausage. I felt a twinge of confusion. Was I a vegetarian who strayed or a meat-eater who favoured greens?

This culinary conundrum continued until a good friend, over a cup of tea, offered a revelation: "You must be a flexitarian!" A flexitarian, I discovered, is someone who primarily eats vegetarian food but occasionally enjoys meat. It's not about strict dietary rules but embracing flexibility and balance. Armed with this new identity, I dove into research, emerging with a badge of flexitarian pride.

My pride increased tenfold when I thought about it a bit more. There are all sorts of reasons why flexitarianism is a boon for our mental health. Here are just five:

1. Environmental Euphoria: Good for the Planet, Great for Your Mind

One of the most compelling aspects of flexitarianism is its environmental friendliness. Reducing meat consumption significantly lessens our carbon footprint. As the United Nations Environment Programme states, "Shifting to a more plant-based diet is a key opportunity to combat climate change." Knowing that our dietary choices positively impact the planet can enhance our mental well-being. The joy of contributing to a healthier world is profound and fulfilling.

2. A Balanced Diet for a Balanced Mind

Flexitarianism also champions a diet rich in variety, ensuring our bodies get a balanced mix of nutrients. According to the British Dietetic Association, "A plant-based diet can support healthy living in people of all ages." This balance isn't just good for our physical health; it's a boon for our mental health too. Nutrient-rich meals can improve mood, energy levels, and overall brain function, contributing to a happier, more vibrant life.

3. Stress Reduction Through Culinary Flexibility

Flexitarianism offers a stress-free approach to eating, unlike strict dietary regimes that can be mentally taxing. The freedom to choose between plant-based and meat options without guilt reduces anxiety around meal planning. As psychologist Dr. Susan Albers notes, "Flexitarianism can lead to a healthier relationship with food, as it emphasizes balance and reduces the stress of having to fit into a strict dietary category." This flexibility can be a significant mental health booster, promoting a relaxed and guilt-free attitude towards eating.

4. Enhanced Creativity and Mental Stimulation

Adopting a flexitarian diet can be a doorway to culinary creativity. Exploring a variety of plant-based recipes alongside occasional meat dishes stimulates the mind, keeping it engaged and excited. According to a study by the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, "Dietary variety is associated with higher diet quality and greater psychological well-being." This mental stimulation is not just about the joy of cooking; it's about the joy of discovering new flavours and textures, which can be incredibly uplifting and fulfilling.

5. Social Connection and Inclusivity

Flexitarianism also fosters social connections by making meal-sharing more inclusive. Whether dining with vegetarians, vegans, or meat-eaters, flexitarians can easily adapt, leading to more shared meals and social interactions. The Mental Health Foundation highlights the importance of social connections for mental health, stating, "Connecting with others and forming good relationships with family and friends can help mental wellbeing." Flexitarianism, by its very nature, encourages these connections, making it easier to enjoy a wide range of social dining experiences.

Conclusion

Embracing flexitarianism is more than a dietary choice; it's a lifestyle that enriches our mental health in numerous ways. From reducing stress and enhancing creativity to fostering social connections, it's a path that leads to both physical and mental wellbeing.

This is the first of three blogposts exploring flexitarianism. Look out for the others which will be along over the next week or so.

Sources

1. United Nations Environment Programme. "Reducing Meat Consumption to Mitigate Climate Change."

2. British Dietetic Association. "Plant-based Diets."

3. Albers, Dr. Susan. "Flexitarianism and Mental Health."

4. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine. "Dietary Variety and Its Psychological Impacts."

5. Mental Health Foundation. "Social Connections and Mental Wellbeing."