That's Fit

Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answer. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Miss Fitzness, I'm a vegetarian, but still weigh 34 pounds more than I'd like to. What gives? I thought vegetarians were supposed to be skinny, and I hate being chubby! Meredith

A. Hello Meredith, Thanks for writing! Vegetarianism can have tons of benefits, and a trim physique can be one of them, if done right. Having said that ... it's very easy to go wrong as well. Here is the deal. Vegetarians don't necessarily eat all fruits and vegetables ... vegetarians just don't eat meat. There are tons of products that have no animal products in them, yet are still super high in calories and fat. Let's start with a short list of some vegetarian approved products:

• Flour
• Sugar
• Oil
• Frosting
• Gummy Bears

• Nachos
• Liquor
• Beer
• Soda

Are you getting the picture Meredith? Just because you don't eat animals, doesn't mean you're eating well. So instead of just avoiding meat, start seeking out those spectacular fruits and vegetables by which you define yourself. Just like omnivores, if you seek out low fat, low calorie, highly nutritious foods on a regular basis and reject the useless garbage like the products listed above ... you probably will end up a much thinner vegetarian.

Use your smarts lady and head to the produce section. Don't forget to include protein sources as well. Beans, veggie burgers, soy, and nuts are great options for you! Keep me posted on your progress.

*** Click here to try my favorite Roasted Vegetable Cuban Sandwich recipe available on page 41 of the Recipe section at Fitzness.com.

Punches & Kicks,