Even if you don’t want to go vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of reasons to try a plant-based diet. Many people experiment with lean cooking and feel much better than before. Here are five powerful benefits of switching to a plant-based diet, even if only partially.
weight loss
In a study of 38 adults, Oxford University researchers found that meat eaters tend to have the highest body mass index for their age, while vegans tend to have the lowest, with vegetarians and semi-vegetarians in between. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition was based on a comparison of over 000 vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The scientists found that BMI values were higher in non-vegetarians in all age groups of both sexes. In addition, weight gain over a 10-year period was lowest among people on a diet low in animal products.
What is the reason? Plant-based foods tend to be richer in antioxidants and fiber, which promote weight loss, and researchers have tracked an increase in calorie burn following a vegan meal. Most importantly, make sure your vegan meals are made from whole, nutrient-dense foods, and not turned into “junk food” like vegan versions of hot dogs, cookies, and donuts.
Health Improvement
A vegetarian diet can reduce the risk of heart disease (the No. 1 killer among men and women) by a third, according to a study this year that compared heart function between vegetarians and meat eaters. Another study was conducted in 2013 by scientists at Loma Linda University and involved more than 70 people aged fifty or over who were followed for six years. The scientists found that the mortality rate was 000 percent lower in vegetarians than in meat eaters. And according to the American Institute for Cancer Research, vegetarian and vegan diets significantly reduce the risk of developing cancers, including those of the stomach, colon, pancreas, breast, uterus, and ovaries.
In addition to the long-term health benefits, switching to a plant-based diet leads to immediate improvements in cholesterol and blood sugar levels, blood pressure, immunity, and digestive function. Many who switch to a plant-based diet report a reduction in pain, which is likely due to the anti-inflammatory effect of plant-based foods, which also help fight aging and Alzheimer’s.
Improved mood
In addition to transforming your body, eating a predominantly plant-based diet can have a powerful effect on your mind. The study, published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, involved 300 young people who kept diaries for three weeks, describing what they ate and their mood. The scientists found that an increase in the consumption of plant foods led to greater energy, calmness, joy, and this positive effect accompanied the volunteers not only on the days when they ate fruits and vegetables, but also throughout the next day.
healthy look
Our appearance depends primarily on the condition of the skin. Gorgeous skin with a healthy glow, according to research, is directly related to the use of plant-based products. Antioxidants contained in plants improve blood circulation and affect skin pigmentation. Fresh, raw vegetables will also help you get rid of toxins from cooking at high temperatures, premature aging, wrinkles and sagging skin.