As a student, it can be tough to maintain a healthy and balanced diet while also trying to juggle classes, homework, volunteering, and co-op. Growing up, I always needed meat in every meal otherwise I’d never be fulfilled. However recently, one strategy that has made things a little easier for me has been incorporating more plant-based meals into my diet. Here are five reasons why being (mostly) vegetarian can be a great choice for students:

1. It's cheaper than meat

Unsuitably, being a student can be expensive, and it's important to save money whenever and wherever we can. Incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet can be a great way to save money on groceries. Meat can be one of the most expensive items in a grocery bill, so replacing it with cheaper plant-based options like beans, lentils, and tofu can make a big difference. But it doesn’t taste like meat, right? This brings me to my second reason.

2. It tastes better if you cook it right, and can have more protein

Many people believe that vegetarians don't get enough protein, but that's not necessarily true. There are plenty of plant-based sources of protein, like beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, and seeds. And when it comes to taste, there are so many delicious and satisfying vegetarian recipes out there. With some creativity and good cooking skills, you can create tasty and protein-packed meals that are just as satisfying and protein-dense as meat-based dishes.

3. It's much healthier and I feel more energetic

A plant-based diet can be incredibly healthy and can provide all the nutrients you need to feel your best. It's been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and some types of cancer. I personally feel more energetic and focused after switching to a vegetarian diet.

4. No need to worry about cross-contamination

If you're worried about food safety, a vegetarian diet can be a great choice. You don't have to worry about cross-contamination from raw meat, and you can feel confident that your food has been handled safely.

5. Saves a lot of time because you don't need to freeze or defrost

One of the biggest challenges of being a student is finding the time to cook and eat healthy meals. A vegetarian diet can be a great way to save time in the kitchen because you don't have to worry about defrosting meat or waiting for it to cook. Plant-based meals can often be made quickly and easily, which can be a big help when you're trying to balance your studies with everything else.

Overall, being (mostly) vegetarian as a student can have a lot of benefits. I say just mostly because I like to eat meat when I eat out. Anyways, it can be cheaper, healthier, and more convenient, and it can also be a delicious and satisfying way to eat. If you're considering giving it a try, don't be afraid to experiment and see what works best for you. With a little bit of creativity and some good cooking skills, you can create tasty and nutritious meals that will help you feel your best. I understand, it might not be for everyone, but it won’t hurt to try :D.