We’re at that time of the year when adopting a healthier approach to eating is still super popular across the country. While the diet that you follow is entirely up to you, cutting out animal products for even a few days a week is good for the planet and good for your health. So, with this in mind, we look at why today might be the right time for you to switch to a vegan diet.
1. A vegan diet is high in nutrients
Cutting out meat, fish, and dairy means you need to increase your intake of other foods. In a vegan diet, you will include more fruit and veggies, beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. This is awesome from a health perspective as you will increase your intake of fibre, plant compounds, and antioxidants. Vegan diets are also richer in vitamins, folate, magnesium, and potassium! Granted, not all vegan diets are equally as nutritious, and you may need to take certain supplements (B12 in particular) that you can’t necessarily get from plant sources alone.
2. You may lose excess weight
Thanks to numerous observational studies, it’s fair to say that many vegans have lower BMIs than non-vegans and are typically thinner. Randomised controlled studies have also discovered that vegan diets can be effective for weight loss. Even with cheat days and when all aspects of the diet aren’t completely followed, vegan and vegetarian diets are typically more beneficial for weight loss than standard Western diets. Key to this is the fact that a vegan diet will reduce your calorie intake, which is one of the most important factors to consider in any weight loss program.
3. You might see a reduction in blood sugar levels
Vegans often have higher insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels than non-vegans, which reduces their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that vegan diets may even be more effective than diets from the American Diabetes Association and the National Cholesterol Education Program when it comes to reducing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. This is largely due to the fact that eating less processed foods and more fibre results in a lower glycemic load, increasing insulin sensitivity at the same time.
4. A vegan diet can protect you against some cancers
The World Health Organization has announced that around one in three cancers can be prevented within your control, notably diet. Changing what you eat might just be the key to living a long and healthy life, at least where cancer is concerned. One study found that vegans have a 15% lower risk of developing cancer than non-vegans. This is primarily due to the health benefits associated with beans and pulses, as well as increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables. Soy products have also been shown to offer protection against breast cancer, particularly organic, non-GMO products. The avoidance of smoked and processed meats can reduce prostate and colon cancers, too. Overall, following a vegan diet is a great way of lowering your risk of developing certain cancers.
5. Vegans may have a lower risk of heart disease
Some observational studies have found that vegans may benefit from a 75% lower risk of developing high blood pressure than the general population. This translates to a 42% lower risk of suffering and dying from heart disease. This is because vegan diets are effective at lowering bad cholesterol and reducing blood sugar. Naturally, this is good for the health of your heart. Another added benefit is that vegans consume more nuts and whole grains than the general population, which are known to be good for your heart.
6. You may experience pain relief from arthritis
One surprising benefit of vegan diets is that they can help alleviate the symptoms associated with different types of arthritis. One particular study discovered that people with arthritis who followed a vegan diet for six weeks reported higher energy levels and better functioning than those who didn’t alter their diets. Foods that are prevalent in a vegan diet are high in antioxidants and fibre and low in lactose. Ultimately, they can improve symptoms associated with arthritis, such as joint swelling and acute pain.
Now is the perfect time to get started with your vegan diet. Making a delicious smoothie is an awesome way to start the day properly and will get you many of the core nutrients you need to enjoy many of the health benefits introduced above. A smoothie a day will keep the doctor at bay!
Article Submitted By Community Writer
