When we sit down to dinner, or grab a burger at the nearest burger joint, we don't stop to think about how a pound of beef could harm the planet. Until I watched the documentary, Vegucated, I didn't realize the amount of water and energy even used to make a pound of beef. The answer? Between 1,700 and 2,000 gallons according to various sources. And that is just the water! You still have to factor in energy and Co2 emissions. According to The Independent, "Livestock are responsible for 18 per cent of the greenhouse gases that cause global warming, more than cars, planes and all other forms of transport put together."

Another sad reality is the fact that many Americans consume too much protein. The average woman only needs between 50 and 60 grams of protein a day. A very active person doesn't need much more. One 4 ounce chicken breast contains over half that. When you add yogurt, milk, cheese, nuts, legumes and any other meat a person may eat through out the day, you get protein overload. Maybe the three-meal meat staple is to blame for this. For decades Americans have enjoyed bacon for breakfast, a meat sandwich for lunch, and another portion of meat for dinner. This made sense back in the 1930's when small farms were abundant and many people had to eat what they could just to stay healthy during war time. People also expended more energy back in those days due to the lack of technology we have now. Labor was much harder.

Like with many foods, it's all about moderation. I could never personally quit meat, so I'd never suggest that to anyone. I do suggest meat in moderation, though, and that's how I try to maintain my health. I only eat meat once a day, usually at dinner. The above photo is two night's worth of steaks for my family of three, and by three, I mean my boyfriend and teenage son. Rather than serving up a plate full of meat with a few side items, we bulk up on veggies with meat as a side. I'm taking care of my body and shrinking my environmental footprint by only enjoying a small portion of meat with dinner, so it's a pretty win-win way to meal plan. I've also noticed more energy since I started eating less meat. Maybe you would to! If not for yourself, at least try it for our children's future.