More and more people have adopted a plant-based diet for several reasons. These reasons include weight loss, energy generation, a decreased risk for heart disease, and to cut down on the number of medications being taken.
Whatever the reason, there are tons of benefits that will make it worth it in the long run. I want to share with you five reasons you too should consider adopting a plant-based lifestyle.
Lowers Blood Cholesterol
High cholesterol is the number one risk factor in heart disease and strokes. Saturated fat—primarily found in meat, poultry, cheese, and other animal products—is a major driver of our blood cholesterol levels.
There are many studies that support giving up meat and address how plant-based products will significantly lower your cholesterol levels. Plant-based diets tend to be very low in saturated fat which means they contain little to no cholesterol.
Reduces Inflammation
If you are consuming meats and animal products, chances are you have high levels of inflammation in your body. Inflammation is a vital part of the immune system’s response to injury and infection. It is necessary when you have a cut or an infection, but it’s not normal to have chronic inflammation for months and even years.
Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases, among other conditions. However, when you eat meat this continues to drive inflammation in the body. Plant-based diets are naturally anti-inflammatory because they are higher in fiber, antioxidants, and other phytonutrients.
Reduces Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Animal protein, especially red and processed meat, has been shown in study after study to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. You will decrease your chances of type 2 diabetes by removing meat from your diet altogether. This is especially true if you eat whole grains, which are highly protective against type 2 diabetes.
Weight Loss Without Trying
Eating whole foods and a plant-based diet will help you shed pounds without even thinking about it. This is because you are eating fewer calories (IF you are consuming a host of fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, and all the minerals and supplements you need).
Giving up meat and processed foods will leave your body cleaner and make it feel less overworked. Eating plant-based will also provide the energy you need to be more active and to workout. Plant-based foods are foods that will fuel you and give you the vitality you need to move your body.
Glowing Skin and Brighter Eyes
Plant-based foods are packed with all of the good stuff such as Vitamins A, C and E. Plant-based foods also contain lots of water and a ton of antioxidants. This is instrumental in providing beautiful glowing skin.
Saturated fats from meat clog your pores and cause toxins in the body. When you give up meat you switch out bad fats for the good fats that can be found in flax seeds, avocados, and nuts.
Overall, adopting a plant-based diet is better for your health and will help you prevent disease.
Priscilla Q. Williams, RN: Author, Speaker, Certified Life Coach, Global Nurse Educator www.priscillaqwilliams.com