What is a plant-based diet?
A plant-based diet can set the foundation for good health and even help ward off illness. As the name suggests, this type of eating plan limits meat and dairy. Instead, you opt for more healthy choices, such as:
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Legumes
Plant-based foods are chock-full of essential elements your body needs to stay healthy. This includes vitamins, fiber, minerals, and much more. Plants are also lower in calories and free of cholesterol, which can be bad for your health.
What are the health benefits of a plant-based diet?
Eating a plant-based diet may help you avoid getting certain diseases. This diet can benefit your:
Heart
Plant-based diets can lower your blood pressure, prevent and reverse heart disease, and improve cholesterol. Science also shows that vegetarians have less risk of dying from heart disease than meat-eaters.
Brain
The unhealthy fats in meat, fried foods, and dairy products can make you more prone to get brain conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Plant-based foods contain antioxidants, folate, and vitamin E that may protect you against cognitive disorders.
Blood sugar
Plant-based foods improve your body's ability to regulate blood sugar and manage insulin. A diet rich in plants can reverse the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes.
Avoiding meat and dairy products also may reduce your risk of cancer. In addition, the brightly colored pigments in fruits and vegetables can help you fight cancer.
Are there risks with plant-based diets?
You'll want to make sure you're getting enough vitamin B12 in your diet if you forgo meat. The team at Main Street Medical suggests making sure to eat foods fortified with vitamin B12, such as breakfast cereal or enriched bread. You can also take a daily supplement to ensure you're getting the necessary amount of B12.
Which plant-based diet is right for me?
The team of healthcare professionals at Main Street Medical can discuss your overall health and recommend the right eating plan for you. In general, plant-based meals feature servings of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, wholesome protein, and healthy oils.
To learn more about the advantages of this type of eating plan, call Main Street Medical today or book your consultation online.
