Health Benefits of a Whole Food Plant Based Diet

A whole food plant based diet is rich in antioxidants and nutrients. It helps prevent and in some cases even reverse chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

This way of eating also reduces the risk of cancer and boosts immunity. A WFPB diet also provides plenty of iron, calcium, zinc, protein and vitamin D by consuming foods such as beans, soy products, dark leafy vegetables and fortified cereals.

Reduced risk of heart disease

A whole food plant based diet is an excellent way to protect your heart. It helps to lower your cholesterol levels, blood pressure and risk of developing heart disease. It also helps to stabilize your bowel function and reduces your risk of colorectal cancer. A plant-based diet eliminates foods high in saturated fat, which raise your cholesterol levels and cause fatty, waxy plaque to build up in the arteries over time. It also avoids foods high in sodium which contribute to hypertension and a higher risk of heart disease.

Some people think that a plant-based diet is expensive but it actually can be very affordable. This is especially true if you buy the right kind of foods. It is important to avoid branded vegan or plant-based processed foods such as plant burgers and sausages which are often full of salt, sugar and unhealthy fats.

Instead a healthy plant-based diet should include lots of fresh vegetables, beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits and nuts. You should also avoid added oils.

Reduced risk of diabetes

Research shows that a whole food plant based diet can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. It also improves the condition of those who already have it.

These types of diets eliminate animal products, processed foods and sugary beverages. Instead, they include a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. They are low in fat and rich in fibre, which helps you stay at a healthy weight. This, in turn, reduces your risk for diabetes and heart disease.

A recent study found that people who adhered to a healthful plant-based diet were 34% less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than those who didn’t. This was independent of body mass index and other diabetes risk factors. A plant-based diet is also high in antioxidants, which help control inflammation and prevent oxidative damage to cells. It also contains healthy fats, like those in olive oil, nuts and nut butters, seeds and avocados. As you make the switch to a whole food plant based diet, your taste buds will adapt and learn to enjoy healthier foods.

Increased immunity

Research shows that a whole-food, plant-based diet can prevent and treat several major health conditions. These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and certain types of cancer. In addition, many people report bigger fitness payoffs and better overall health and well-being after a switch to a WFPB diet.

A plant-based diet is high in antioxidants, which help combat chronic inflammation, a major cause of illness. It also helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces risk for obesity-related diseases.

A plant-based diet also boosts the immune system by increasing nutrient intake. It provides a good amount of vitamin C, folic acid and iron. It also promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which improves immune function. It also increases fibre intake, which is important for maintaining a healthy weight. The best sources of fibre are fruits, vegetables and legumes. The diet eliminates foods high in saturated fat and toxins, which are known to tax the body’s immune system.

Weight loss

Those on the whole food plant based diet often lose weight and feel more energetic. They also have lower risks of heart disease and diabetes. The foods used in this diet are nutrient-dense, high in fibre and contain few calories. They are low on the glycemic index, meaning they don’t spike blood sugar levels. In addition, the dietary habits help to reduce cravings and maintain weight loss over time.

The dietary guidelines recommend foods such as vegetables, whole grains, fruits, nuts and seeds, and beans. It should exclude meat, dairy products, eggs, added oils and processed foods. These foods are high in vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. They are also low in saturated fat and contain no trans fat.

A plant-based diet is easy to do, and many people find it more enjoyable than following a restrictive diet. In addition, it is relatively inexpensive. You can choose from a wide variety of healthy foods such as greens, tomatoes, avocados, and fortified cereals.

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