The Benefits of a Whole Food Plant Based Diet
Whole Food Plant Based Diet Bread
When you are eating a whole food plant based diet it is important to avoid bread made with refined flour. Look for breads that are multigrain, whole grain, or sprouted grains (such as ezekiel) as these contain more fiber and protein which help to regulate digestion and heart health.
The best option is a 100% whole grain, so check the ingredient label and avoid those that mention bleached flour or enriched wheat.
Nutritional Benefits
The plant-based diet is rich in nutrients, including protein, iron, calcium, vitamin C and fiber. It eliminates the unhealthy fats found in animal products, which are linked to heart disease and certain cancers. It also contains high levels of antioxidants that reduce the risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
The diet focuses on whole, minimally processed foods that are natural, plant-based and low in salt, sugar and oil. It includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. A well-planned, whole food plant-based diet is safe for everyone, even infants and children.
Studies have shown that a plant-based diet can help prevent and reverse heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, inflammatory conditions, and other chronic diseases. In addition, the diet can improve quality of life in those with existing health problems, like high cholesterol and blood pressure. This is because it is naturally anti-inflammatory, free of saturated fats and added salt and sugar. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Weight Loss Benefits
A whole food plant based diet (WFPB) emphasizes unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods that are naturally low in calories. While most people can find ways to lower the number of calories they consume, not everyone will experience a dramatic weight loss as a result.
A WFPB is also effective at reducing inflammation. This is because the diet is naturally free of processed foods, salt and oil that are known causes of inflammation. This eating plan may also help you lose weight and reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
A plant based diet can be as simple or complicated as you like. Many plant-based eaters eventually give up the word “diet” and simply describe the way they eat as a lifestyle. Changing your nutrition is a powerful health-promoting choice that can prevent chronic diseases and even save the planet. If you want to try a plant based diet but are unsure where to begin, start by incorporating a few simple meals into your weekly routine.
Heart Health Benefits
A plant-based diet is growing in popularity, mainly due to the many health benefits it provides. It is a diet that avoids eating meat, dairy and processed foods and instead focuses on whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and nuts.
Those following this type of diet have been shown to have lower rates of heart disease, obesity and diabetes. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
You may think that it is not possible to eat sandwiches on a whole food plant-based diet, but you would be surprised. Bread made from buckwheat, sprouted grain or flax seed can actually be very healthy and still taste great. These types of bread contain no refined flour and provide the body with a wide array of nutrients. They are also very low in calories and fat and are full of dietary fiber. This helps to keep the weight off and supports a healthy digestive system.
Digestive Health Benefits
Eating a whole foods plant-based diet is associated with improved digestive health. This eating style eliminates processed foods, like refined flour, that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. It includes consuming healthy fats from nuts, seeds and avocados, as well as whole fruits and vegetables.
Eating primarily plant-based foods also provides more fiber, which helps manage your weight and improves your digestion. The diet is also effective at reducing the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It can also prevent and even reverse certain types of cancer, according to research.
While it may be intimidating to switch to a new diet, the plant-based diet is relatively easy to follow. The goal is to fill two-thirds of your plate with whole and minimally processed plants, such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Add protein from beans and tofu, or healthy fats from nuts and seeds, to your meals for a balanced meal.