Plant based diets are common around the world. When consuming a plant based diet your meals should be filled with products like fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, legumes and nuts. Changing from your current diet plan to a plant based diet does not have to be a drastic change, and you can start slowly by simply incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your daily routine. Plant based diets have numerous benefits that help promote health for life.
Types of Plant Based Diets
If choosing to consume a plant based diet you have a number of different options to choose from. Popular plant based diets include the Mediterranean diet, vegetarian and vegan. The main differences between plant-based diets involve the food you consume in addition to plants. For example, vegans do not eat any products made with animals. You can still consume meat, fish, seafood, dairy and grains when following a plant based diet, however; plants should be your main food source.
Weight Loss and Maintenance
Following a plant based diet can significantly help you improve your weight. Incorporating more plants into your diet will likely reduce your daily caloric intake. Reducing calories alone aids in weight loss. Whether you're looking to drop pounds or just maintain your current weight, a plant based diet can help you reach your goals. Making plant substitutions lowers your intake of fat and sugar, two contributors to weight gain.
Lower Risk for Disease
Consuming a plant based diet can help you lower your risk for certain diseases and illnesses such as stroke, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, certain cancers and diverticular disease. By incorporating more plants and less fat and sugar you are helping your body's immune system stay healthy. Many fruits and vegetables also contain antioxidants, which may help ward off some of the previously mentioned diseases.
A Healthier You
In addition to lowering your risk for certain diseases, following a plant based diet can also help you lower your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Maintaining healthy levels in these areas can lower your risk for a number of chronic diseases. Plant based diets are also thought to slow the cognitive decline that is common with age. Eating a plant based diet is a healthy lifestyle choice that can help you maintain your health for years to come.
References
- American Heart Association: Women on Mediterranean-Type Diets May Lower Heart, Stroke Risk
- MayoClinic.com: Should you be a flexitarian?
- FamilyDoctor.org: Mediterranean Diet
- ClevelandClinic.org: Understanding Vegetarianism
- MayoClinic.com: Vegetarian Diet: How to Get the Best Nutrition
- MayoClinic.com: Mediterranean Diet: Choose This Heart-Healthy Diet Option
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