As the name implies, plant-based diets focus on foods grown on trees and in the ground. That generally includes vegetables and fruits, seeds and nuts, whole grains, beans and legumes.
But even “plant-forward” diets that include other foods but still attempt to include more plants can have notable impacts. You don’t have to be a vegetarian or a vegan to reap these benefits, even if you still make room for occasional indulgences of dairy and meat.
A Growing Trend
Doctors say that health issues like high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes can be improved with plant-based diets, while also reducing the requirement for medication. Evidence-based studies continue, and they’re increasingly showing that plant-based diets are effective at improving wellness and health — even if you’re not exclusively eating plants.
In the meantime, plant-based diets have been mainstreamed through widely seen films like “Cowspiracy’”and “Forks Over Knives.” More men are discovering that these dietary choices can have positive impacts on cardiac health and weight, and may also help the environment.
Getting Started
If you’re not sure about becoming a full-on vegan, consider simply adding more plant-based foods to your existing diet. Slowly transition into these new habits.
In the meantime, here’s a breakdown of all the terms: Vegetarians eat plant-based protein while avoiding meat like beef, pork and chicken. They eat eggs, milk and cheese.
On the other hand, vegans have an exclusively plant-focused diet that doesn’t include animals products like honey, cheese and milk. They only eat plants or plant-based products.
Flexible Options
Some may choose the so-called “flexitarian diet,” which focuses on plant-based foods while reducing the intake of meat and animal products. This is the best way to transition toward vegetarian or vegan diets, gradually replacing animals proteins, processed foods, dairy and fried foods with vegetables, fruits, beans and whole grains.
Don’t underestimate small shifts in this direction, since eating more unprocessed, plant-based foods will produce clear health benefits.
Clear Benefits
The National Institutes of Health reports that plant-based diets provide a low-risk opportunity to improve body mass index, cholesterol and blood pressure. Simply eating better may also help reduce the need for medications meant to treat heart disease and chronic issues. This is particularly important for those who are dealing with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity.