People who follow a vegetarian diet are likely to have body weights as much as 20 per cent less than non-veggies, and are at lower risk of serious diseases, says a new review.

Although the precise definition of vegetarianism is open to debate, the number of people choosing to exclude meat from their diets seems to have followed a steady upward curve over the past decade.

A 2002 Datamonitor report estimated that there are around 12 million vegetarians in Europe, and a Time/CNN poll of 10,000 American adults the same year found 4 percent of the population (more than 11 million people) to be self proclaimed vegetarians. The scientific review, published in the April issue of Nutrition Reviews (Vol. 64), compiled data from 87 observational and clinical studies, and showed that the weight-loss did not appear to depend on exercise or calorie count, and could occur at a rate of 1 pound per week.

Vegans and vegetarians are reported to consume diets that are higher in carbohydrate and dietary fibre, lower in calories and bad fats cholesterol and saturated fat, compared to people on eating a non-vegetarian diet. “Typically, vegetarian diets derive more than 50% of energy from fiber rich carbohydrates (from fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and whole-grain breads and cereals),” explained reviewers Susan Berkow and Neal Barnard from the US Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine.

“There is evidence that a [vegetarian] diet causes an increased calorie burn after meals, meaning plant-based foods are being used more efficiently as fuel for the body, as opposed to being stored as fat,” said Barnard.

The reviewers also reported that insulin sensitivity increased for vegetarians, easing the absorption of nutrients into cells. This is also an indicator that diabetic related diseases can be eased and/or avoided by adopting an increasingly vegetarian eating habit. “If such diets cause weight loss when adopted by overweight individuals, they may be of substantial clinical value because they also are associated with other health benefits, including improved control of blood lipids, blood pressure and diabetes,” said Berkow and Barnard.

The rising rate of obesity is seen as one of the major health challenges of the 21st century. Europe is said to be rapidly catching up the USA where the metabolic syndrome associated with obesity has risen dramatically in the past 10 years and now affects up to 32 per cent of adults - an estimated 50 million people, according to the International Obesity Task Force.

Of particular concern is the rising number of overweight and obese children, said to be growing by 1.3 m children a year. By 2010 it is estimated 26 m children will be overweight, including 6.4m obese, in EU countries.

This 100% vegan (animal product free) complete meal replacement powder (MRP) is a whole food, synergistic blend of plant based super foods. Veganique provides the goodness of a whole meal in an easily digestible, energizing and compact 250 calorie shake. Uniquely high in fibre, protein and EFAs, Veganique will also satisfy your hunger, helping to suppress your appetite and cravings.

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Certified Organic ISO-Hemp™ Protein*
Hemp protein is a super food all unto its own. It is a complete protein and ISO-Hemp is 50% protein so it delivers 1/3rd more protein than other hemp proteins. Hemp delivers the essential fatty acids (EFAs) (omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids) and is rich in fibre.
Certified Organic Brown Rice Protein*
Rice protein is a whole food source derived from organic brown rice it is naturally rich in fibre. Rice protein is considered, along with hemp, the least allergenic of all proteins. It provides an excellent compliment to hemp protein. The combination of hemp and rice proteins delivers a complete balanced source of all the essential amino acids.
Certified Organic Whole Flax EFA Powder*
Flax seeds are naturally rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. Our cold milled powder preserves these essential fats while also delivering protein and essential fiber for healthy intestinal and colon health.
Certified Organic Fructo-Oligosaccharides (FOS)*
A healthy intestinal tract is vital to digest and absorb what we eat efficiently. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that are often associated with yogurt – probiotics flourish in our intestines providing digestive aid and intestinal health. These probiotics in turn need FOS (also known as a prebiotic) to nourish themselves and to remain strong, to fight off bad bacteria.
Certified Organic Maca*
This Peruvian wonder food is often used to balance and support energy, support the immune system, provide libido enhancement, relieve stress and provide an increased sense of well being. This root belongs to the adaptogen group, thus having the ability to adapt to the body’s requirements for recuperation.
Organic High CGF Chlorella
This is “green food” rich in phytonutrients, chlorophyll and cell healthy DNA and RNA proteins. Chlorella is found in many “greens food powders” and is naturally rich in protein, some EFAs and can help to nourish every cell in our bodies.
Certified Organic Cane Juice Solids* & Natural Flavours
(With Xanthan Gum, Sunflower and Canola Oil, Citrus Extract, Stevia & Licorice Extract).
If it tastes good, you will use it more consistently! Drinking a Veganique power shake will invigorate your body AND your taste buds too. Using only natural flavours from the earth combined with a small amount of organic cane juice solids and other “taste enhancers”, Veganique sets a new standard in vegan eating – it actually tastes good – and some say it even tastes GREAT! It’s just the right consistency which makes drinking 1 or 2 shakes EVERY day a breeze.
Acai Juice Powder
This powder may be new to you. Acai is a Brazilian energy juice that provides antioxidants. Antioxidants fight against and destroy free radicals. If too many free radicals accumulate in our bodies and go unchecked, the result may be an increased risk of cancer. Acai may help reduce that risk.
Antioxidant Polyphenol Blend
(Green Tea, Matcha Green Tea, Black Tea, White Tea, Rooibos Red Tea [<1 mg caffeine per serving]).
These 5 tea extracts possess anti-oxidant qualities. The part of the tea that delivers these free-radical fighting benefits is called polyphenols (these fight against the bad free radicals). While Green Tea is already widely known for its’ high polyphenol content, the other 4 teas in our blend are just now gaining attention - they ALL deliver polyphenols. Especially exciting is the addition Rooibos red tea, which comes from an African bush and is an antioxidant as well. It’s rich in minerals and trace elements, helps with digestion, relives tension and insomnia and is beneficial for blood sugar problems and liver function. Rooibos helps promote healthy skin and nervous system. You are likely to hear a lot more about Acai and Rooibos in the near future!
ORAC 1000 Mixed Berry Complex
(Wild Blueberry Extract, Grape Extract, Grape Seed Extract, Raspberry Extract, Raspberry Seed Extract, Cranberry Extract, Cherry Powder, Wild Bilberry Extract, Strawberry Powder).
Fruits are among the most beneficial foods of all! They provide an array of natural vitamins and minerals, anti-oxidants, polyphenols, caratenoids (like beta carotene), vitamin C, potassium and fibre! This amazing array of “super fruits” has the same anti-oxidant power (measured in ORAC units) as 5 servings of fruit and vegetables.
Full Spectrum Digestive Enzyme Complex
(Lipase, Cellulase, Amylase, Lactase, Protease).
All foods must be digested, before they can be absorbed. To improve overall digestion these 5 plant based enzymes cover the digestion of all the various foods found in Veganique.
Probiotic Blend Lactobacillus Sporogenes, B. Bifidum
These are the healthy, dairy free cultures that help with digestion and intestinal tract health. Combined with FOS Inulin and the enzymes, Veganique will definitely improve your digestion and help improve your intestinal and colon health.
Natural Vitamin & Mineral Blend
(Calcium Phosphate, Ascorbic Acid [Vitamin C], Sodium Chloride, Vitamin A Palmitate, Ergocalciferol [Vitamin D2], D-Alpha Tocopherol [Vitamin E], Thiamine HCl [B1], Riboflavin [B2], Niacinamide [B3], Pyridoxine HCl [B6], Folic Acid, Cyanocobalamin [B12], Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Ferrous Sulfate, Potassium Phosphate, Potassium Iodide, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Citrate, Sodium Selenite, Copper Gluconate, Manganese Sulfate, Chromic Chloride, Sodium Molybdate).
Vitamins and minerals are absolutely necessary for optimal health. Without the right amounts of either, cell function is impaired and nutritional stress can overtake your body. Veganique supplies ALL 25 of the essential vitamins and minerals. The “super green” foods also provide a vast array of over 50 MORE trace minerals. Having Veganique once or twice a day ensures your energy levels improve and keeps your body, mind (and spirit) all at optimal levels!

*Certified Organic