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A way of living, switching to a plant based diet is not just about what you consume but a part of your lifestyle and an effort towards making environmentally conscious choices. A step closer towards adapting a lifestyle that is not only healthy but vibrant and energy packed, plant based diet benefits are plenty.
With everybody actively looking for ways to adapt a more healthier lifestyle, switching to a plant based diet has become a common step towards the same. From lowering the risk of diabetes, to managing overall body weight as well as improving kidney functions, maintaining a plant based diet also helps towards promoting a good heart health. A versatile eating pattern that excludes meat and animal products, incorporating a plant based diet means consuming foods from plant sources. A conscious choice to make that is not only beneficial for the planet but also equally effective towards maintaining a good personal health, here are some of the major benefits of consuming a whole plant based diet that you should know about.
What is a plant based diet?
A dietary pattern that mainly focuses on the consumption of plant based ingredients, there is no hard and fast definition of a plant based diet. A major part of following a plant based diet means the elimination of meat and dairy products however, a plant based diet does not necessarily indicate the removal of animal products from every meal. While some individuals may follow a strict vegan diet, others can follow a vegetarian or any other form of diet.
Additionally, consuming whole foods and the incorporation of non-processed foods is also a major aspect of following a healthy plant based eating pattern.
Benefits of a plant based diet
Following a plant based diet caters to a range of health benefits, here are some of the top plant based diet benefits that you should know about
1. Increase intake of vitamins and nutrients
Consuming whole foods and a plant based diet is a great way to introduce a host of vitamins and other essential nutrients in the body. Vegetables, fruits, legumes and other ingredients which are a part of healthy plant based eating naturally supply the body with vitamins, nutrients, fibre and healthy fats. Moreover, the natural sugar content in whole plant based recipes helps provide the body with a natural energy boost without any of the adverse effects that are otherwise caused by the intake of refined sugar.
2. Promoting better heart health
Following a whole foods plant based diet is great for heart health. With the whole plant based recipes being rich in fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats, it naturally helps the body to maintain a lower blood pressure, improves overall blood circulation and also helps in reducing cholesterol. Studies have also found a link between promotion of good heart health as a result of following a whole plant based diet.
3. Good gut health
Among the major plant based diet benefits is the promotion of good digestive health. Loaded with high fibre content, consuming whole foods and a plant based diet helps in aiding smooth digestion and promotes regular bowel movement, which in turn is effective towards the maintenance of a good gut health. Consuming plant based food items helps in the formation of healthy gut microbes, which is essential for overall well being of the body as well.
4. Weight management
With whole foods and plant based diets being naturally low in their calorie content, incorporating healthy plant based eating patterns helps to naturally regulate your weight and keeps you off those extra pounds. Moreover, the fibre content which is an essential component of a plant based diet helps in maintaining a good gut health, which in turn helps regulate the digestion process in your body and curbs hunger. A great way towards achieving sustainable weight loss, a plant based diet definitely makes your weight loss journey much easier.
5. Improved skin
A plant based diet works wonders when it comes to maintenance of good skin. Incorporating a plant based diet not only helps you achieve a naturally glowing skin but also helps towards improving your complexion. High in vitamins and antioxidants, plant based food items help reduce inflammation, combat ageing and improve skin elasticity, thus helping you achieve a naturally fresh and vibrant looking skin. Moreover, the high water content in plant based foods also helps maintain the natural hydration of your skin which makes it soft and supple.
6. Longevity
Incorporating a whole plant based diet is your way towards a more vibrant life. Since plant based food items help in nourishing the body with nutrient rich compounds, studies have shown that people who follow a plant based diet live a longer as they are at a reduced risk of age related diseases. A diet plan that helps in boosting the overall immunity of your body and reduces inflammation, the power of a plant based diet helps you live longer and healthier.