Heres what this plant-based diet canand cantdo for your health.
But have you ever wondered about trying a 100% plant-based diet?
The vegan diet, the strictest of the plant-based diets, excludes all animal-based foods.
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So, its one way to jump into plant-based eating with both feet!
However, giving up foods like meat and cheese isnt easy.
Just 1% of U.S. adults claim theyre vegan, according to a recent Gallup poll.
If youve been flirting with going vegan, heres what to expect.
Health Benefits of a Vegan Diet
Its a common belief that all vegan foods are inherently healthy.
Here are the health benefits associated with a balanced vegan diet.
But one of the biggest factors is that youll up yourfiberintake.
The vegan diet also relies heavily onlegumesto meet protein goals.
And legumes are packed with blood sugarstabilizing fiber.
Additionally, the higher fiber content of plant-based diets has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels."
Plus, the vegan diet is generally rich inpotassiumand lower insodium, which is ideal for better blood pressure.
And in most studies, vegetarians and vegans are lumped together.
This may encourage weight loss by promoting a calorie deficit.
Is a Vegan Diet Safe for Everyone?
The key is being well-planned, but thats true for every diet!
Here are a few factors to keep in mind when adopting a vegan diet.
Plant foods rarely containvitamin B12, so supplementing is essential for vegans.
It just requires a little planning.
Ironically, you may also becomeconstipated.
This may be temporary, but nevertheless uncomfortable.
But thats far from the truth.
Ready to take the leap?
Thisvegan meal plan for beginnersis a great resource to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends.
A well-planned vegan diet is associated with a host of potential health benefits.
However, going veganisn’t automatically healthier.
Gallup.In US, 4% Identify as Vegetarian, 1% as Vegan.
2019;8(16):e012865.
2021;14(1):29.
2023;15(6):1510. doi:10.3390/nu15061510
