Benefits of Plant-Based Eating

It is important to first say that plant-based eating is not the same as a vegetarian or vegan diet. It does not completely exclude meat or all animal products but does limit these. This way of eating is instead focussed around, as the name suggests, plant-based foods. These include all types of fruit, vegetables, whole grains/cereals, legumes, nuts and seeds. Most plant-based eaters do still consume some meat and animal products such as dairy and eggs but the portion and frequency in which these foods are enjoyed are significantly lower than that of the average Australian diet. Meat is thought of as an addition to a meal rather than the main feature.

So, what are the benefits of plant-based eating? Here are just a few…

Protects Against Chronic Disease

Plant foods such as colourful fruit and vegetables are rich sources of antioxidants that help to combat oxidative stress underpinning many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive decline (e.g. dementia) and even some forms of cancer. Reducing your consumption of meat and animal products allows for a greater intake of these antioxidant-rich foods.

Similarly, with a reduced intake of animal products comes a reduction in consumption of saturated and an increased intake of fibre from foods such as fruit, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds. These dietary patterns are much better aligned with a reduced risk of metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

May Help with Weight Management

Many individuals find that a diet higher in fibre from plant foods such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds helps to keep them feeling fuller for longer. This in turn will often (but not always) result in a reduced daily energy (kilojoule or calorie) intake and assist with facilitating weight loss in those who are overweight or obese.

Great For the Environment

Food production contributes to almost 30% of total greenhouse gas emissions (roughly 75% of which are attributed to the meat and dairy industry). These industries typically also require large quantities of water to raise livestock and dairy cattle. Collectively reducing our consumption of meat and animal products will therefore result in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and water usage.

Still unsure of whether a plant-based diet is ideal for you? Get in touch with an Accredited Practising Dietitian from Fuel Your Life today for further assistance.