The question of “What do I eat?” is one that we are frequently asked by new converts to vegetarianism and is not easy to answer. It is especially tricky to make sense of the vast array of newly accepted foods, many of which have never been seen or eaten before. It’s often recommended that you eat a varied vegetarian diet in order to avoid monotony, and so diversify your eating as much as possible: eat beans and lentils, nuts and seeds, sprouts, grains, fruits, and vegetables.

So, what exactly do I eat? I eat what I put into my mouth, which can sometimes be a little strange and disconcerting at first. There is really no right or wrong answers when it comes to eating, but paying attention to your body and how it feels while you’re eating can help give you a better understanding of what you should be eating.

Vegetables are an excellent source of protein and vitamins. Your body requires proteins to build cells and tissues, and you need vitamin C to neutralise stomach acid and keep your skin healthy. On their own, most vegetables are rich in either sugar or fibre, and a high percentage of both of these is generally required to make them taste good. However, by paying close attention to what you put into your mouth and making sure that the vegetable and protein sources provide your body with the vitamins and minerals it needs, you can eat a varied, nutrient-rich diet without feeling hungry.

Fruits and vegetables are excellent for maintaining healthy skin and are also very good for your health. If you enjoy eating these products, you should be aware that eating too much fruit can be damaging, especially if you overindulge. Eating an excess of fruit can lead to excess weight gain, which is often one of the causes of serious illness in the developed world. A healthy balance between fruit and vegetables is important, though it is usually more satisfying to eat them in larger portions than you would eat them in small portions. However, it is still important to ensure that you include complex carbohydrates in your diet, such as pasta and rice, which are generally higher in fibre and lower in sugar than their fruit counterparts.

As far as brain health goes, there is evidence that diet and exercise can improve your mental performance. There are several different types of diets that have been studied, with mixed results, but many studies have concluded that eating certain types of foods can help improve brain health. These types of diets include those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as those low in fats and sugar, and those low in salt. The beneficial effects are not only seen in improved mood, but also in increased brain function. Of course, it is important that you make sure you are getting the right kinds of nutrients, so if you are planning a long holiday away from home, it might be a good idea to take some basic supplements to prevent sickness during your stay.

Finally, there is another benefit to be gained from eating certain foods, which is that they may help to improve your skin health. There are several different kinds of foods that you can eat to help your skin look younger, and many of them can be surprisingly easy to find. One of the most important benefits from eating a healthy diet is that it can help to reduce the risks of the development of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin, as well as helping to keep your skin looking young and vibrant. So, while you may not be able to eat chocolate anytime you want, you certainly should eat low-fat dairy products, like low-sugar yogurt, and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables!