Not all plant-based foods are low in calories ^89%

The Plant-Based Myth: Not All Options are Low in Calories

As more and more people adopt plant-based diets, it's easy to assume that all plant-based foods are low in calories. However, this assumption couldn't be further from the truth. While many plant-based options are indeed lower in calories than their animal-based counterparts, there are some notable exceptions.

The Calorie-Dense Plant-Based Foods

Some plant-based foods are surprisingly high in calories, making them a challenge to incorporate into a weight loss or low-calorie diet. Here are just a few examples:

• Avocados: Rich in healthy fats, avocados can pack up to 320 calories per medium-sized fruit.
• Nut butters: Peanut butter, almond butter, and cashew butter are all high in calories due to their high fat content, with approximately 190 calories per 2-tablespoon serving.
• Seitan: Made from wheat gluten, seitan is a popular plant-based protein source that can be high in calories, with around 140 calories per 3-ounce serving.
• Coconut oil and other saturated fats: While healthy in moderation, these oils are high in calories and should be consumed sparingly.

The Role of Portion Control

To maintain a balanced diet while incorporating calorie-dense plant-based foods, portion control is key. Pay attention to serving sizes and aim for moderate consumption of these higher-calorie options.

The Benefits of Plant-Based Eating

While some plant-based foods may be high in calories, the overall benefits of a well-planned plant-based diet far outweigh the drawbacks. Plant-based diets have been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Conclusion

Not all plant-based foods are low in calories, but this shouldn't deter you from embracing a plant-based lifestyle. By being mindful of portion sizes and incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense options into your diet, you can reap the rewards of plant-based eating while maintaining a healthy weight.