“A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love,” said Saint Basil.
A plant-based diet focuses mostly on whole grains, legumes, fresh foods, whole grains, and legumes, but not everyone on a plant-based diet avoids animal products completely. As with all diets, it is important to consider a person’s genetics, activity level, existing medical conditions, and nutritional deficiencies or food allergies. Those on a plant-based diet, in particular, should ensure they are getting adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals, from B12 to omega-3 fatty acids.
Here are some of the benefits of a plant-based diet:
Boost your immune system:
Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes contain important nutrients that you cannot get from other foods. The vitamins and minerals, phytochemicals, and antioxidants in plant foods help keep your cells healthy and your body balanced so your immune system can function optimally. Start with these delicious plant-based foods that will further protect you from germs.
Reduce cancer risk:
A number of studies have found a link between high meat consumption and an increased risk of cancer. In 2015, the World Health Organization placed processed meats such as hot dogs and bacon in the same risk category as asbestos and smoking. One study, in particular, found that women who ate one serving of red meat per week had a 22 percent greater risk of developing breast cancer than women who ate 1.5 servings of red meat per day.
Reduce the risk of heart disease:
Countless studies have shown that people who eat a plant-based diet have a lower risk of dying from heart disease, America’s number one killer, compared to those who eat large amounts of animal foods. The high levels of fiber and nutrients in plant-based foods have been shown to prevent and reverse heart disease, improve cholesterol levels, and lower blood pressure.
Reduce inflammation:
The essential nutrients in plant foods work to reduce inflammation in your body. The same little phytochemicals and antioxidants that boost your immune system also neutralize toxins from pollutants, processed foods, bacteria, viruses, and more. In the long term, it can help protect your cells and tissues from damage that can lead to cancer and other inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.
Increase your overall life expectancy:
The researchers found that those who had eaten a plant-based diet for more than 17 years lived 3.6 years longer. Many physicians advise their patients to follow a plant diet instead of a meat diet.
It’s clear that eating more plant-based foods and less meat, dairy, and eggs can improve a person’s overall health, not to mention helping the planet and reducing animal suffering. Above Food is a B2B plant-based protein company specializing in the development of whole food products. Above Food Stock was founded in 2020 to deliver dense, nutritious, sustainable, and superior food products.
