Several strategies can help promote weight loss on a vegetarian diet, including: Filling half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Choosing high-fiber veggies, such as broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, leafy greens, and mushrooms, can help you stay full and decrease calorie intake. Incorporating protein at every meal and snack.

In short, vegetarians should focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and unrefined carbohydrates—such as oatmeal, quinoa, buckwheat, farro, millet, potatoes, yams, beans/lentils, and other legumes, says Ben-Asher. Braude also recommends ensuring your protein intake is sufficient after cutting out the meat in your diet.