THE 3 MAIN ADVANTAGES OF A PLANT-BASED DIET

The buzz around plant-based diets continues to grow, and so does the curiosity about what such a diet really means.

What are the rules? Is it the same as being a vegetarian or a vegan? If you go along with this trend, should you give up your favorite cheese burger or meat taco recipes forever?

The answer is no. A plant-based diet, or plant-based diet, simply means that you choose to eat proportionally more whole foods that are mostly plant-based. This includes fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

What is a plant-based diet?
A plant-based diet doesn’t mean you can’t eat eggs, dairy products, fish, or meat. It just means you eat less of it. They become toppings and are not the main part of every meal. Some people choose a vegan diet that excludes all animal products, but the plant-based diet is not as strict.

It leaves plenty of room for choice and for your favorite foods. You just fill your plate with a lot more fruits and vegetables.

Excellent examples of plant-based diets include the popular Mediterranean and Blue Zone diets. Research has shown that there are some important health benefits of eating a plant-based diet. Let’s take a look at some that could have the biggest impact on your body.
Benefit # 1 of a Plant-Based Diet: Improved Nutrition and Fiber
Since plant-based diets are usually high in whole grains, beans, nuts, and legumes, studies show they provide all the protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates that the body needs. The importance placed on fruits and vegetables means that they are naturally high in fiber, vitamins and phytonutrients.

For many people, red meat, poultry and fish are the main source of B vitamins in their diet. If you are switching to a plant-based diet, you will want to consider a B vitamin supplement.

If you do, try some like Nutrilite ™ Double Action Vitamin B. It is a two-phase design that releases vitamins B2 and B12 on one side while the other six essential B vitamins are released steadily over an eight-hour period on the other side.

Benefit 2 of a plant-based diet: potential weight loss
Plant-based diets can also make a visible difference to your waistline. Studies have shown that people who put plants and whole foods at the heart of their diets have a lower body mass index (BMI) compared to those whose meals are mainly meat-based.

A long-term study that followed a group of people for 5 years found that those who ate meat had the highest BMI while vegetarians and vegans had the lowest. Those who follow a plant-based diet have also been shown to be better at keeping the weight off, research shows.

Benefit 3 of a plant-based diet: lower risk of certain diseases
Studies have shown that a Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer, including breast, colon and prostate. Research also shows a link with decreased symptoms of depression.

Vegetarian and vegan diets have shown the same results, including the ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They have also been associated with increased longevity.

Plant-based doesn’t mean junk food
Cutting back on barbecued steaks and ribs doesn’t mean you can focus on plant-based “junk foods” like piles of fries, white pasta topped with alfredo sauce, mozzarella sticks or donuts.

It just means you’re making healthy food choices while putting whole grains, fruits, and vegetables at the forefront of your meal.