keep the weight off.
4. Sustains the Planet
You may not be a planet chaser, but the truth is we need a healthy planet for human, plant, and wildlife survival.
According to the Human League, veganism reduces greenhouse gas emissions, stops livestock emissions, reduces energy consumption, conserves water, stabilizes the ocean, protects the rain forests and land, preserves habitats, prevents species extinction, protects the soil, and uses fewer resources that aid in a healthier planet for us all.
RELATED: 9 Benefits of A Plant-Based Diet
5. Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
The proof is in the nutrients. Research shows that increasing plant-based options in our diets can reduce heart disease by 40%. The American Heart Association reports that eating a plant-centered diet in young adulthood lowered the risk in middle age for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and several other cardiovascular conditions. Also, eating plant-based foods that lower cholesterol levels reduced the risk of heart disease in postmenopausal women. Research also shows that those who ate a more beneficial, plant-centered diet, with fewer foods considered adverse, were 52% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
Here’s something to consider: comfort foods are just that – for comfort. We should regularly intake foods that sustain our bodies to operate at their highest potential – foods rich in protein, fiber, minerals, healthy fats, healthy carbs (which support endurance), etc. Should we eliminate comfort foods or meat? No, not exactly. Those foods should be consumed in moderation and not as daily fuel for sustaining a healthy lifestyle. We know that plants have power, and we’ll have to activate that power by being intentional in our food choices – it’s not easy, but our health depends on it.