If you are exploring becoming a vegan, you may have asked: “Is a vegan diet healthy?” Here are four health benefits of following a plant-based diet. We’ll also answer the most common misconceptions about vegan nutrition.
Celebrity diet, a passing fad, just another experiment for the health-nut … how many times have you heard people talk about the vegan diet this way? If we look at the research, is a vegan diet healthy to begin with?
Why is a vegan diet healthy? Here are 4 reasons
Even though the image of veganism is certainly improving in mainstream culture, many popular myths surrounding health and fitness continue to dominate the conversation in favor of animal product heavy diets. But the truth is that adopting a vegan diet has been shown to be incredibly health-promoting. And every day, research continues to come out in support of its health benefits.
Interested in becoming vegan? Read: How to Become Vegan
Here are some of the ways that a vegan diet can be beneficial — not only for the animals and the planet but for yourself too.
1. Weight loss
Is a vegan diet healthy for those watching their weight? The fact that following a vegan diet can lead to remarkable weight loss makes it appealing for many. In fact, eating strictly plant-based is the only diet consistently associated with ideal body weight.
Calorie density is the key reason for this. Vegan foods tend to have higher fiber and nutrient density per calorie. This means that you will feel full and satiated while eating fewer calories. If you’re trying to shed a few pounds, going vegan is the easiest and healthiest way to do so!
2. Protection against cancer
Following a vegan diet has also been associated with a 15% lower risk of developing cancer. This is not really surprising if we consider that processed meats are classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the WHO, with red meat also being considered a probable cause of cancer.
Dairy has also been associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. Avoiding animal products shields vegans from all these health risks, making a vegan diet the most powerful tool to protect your body from this worldwide killer.
3. Abundance of nutrients
Optimal amounts of fiber, antioxidants, magnesium, and potassium make balanced vegan diets a nutrition powerhouse. But what about B12, vitamin D, iron, and all other nutrients vegans are believed to be deficient in? Is a vegan diet healthy when it comes to that?
Contrary to popular belief, vegans are just as prone to deficiencies as every meat eater. The best way to avoid being deficient on a vegan diet is to make sure to take B12 supplements every day, along with B12 fortified food, and eating a colorful variety of whole plant foods. Legumes are key for iron and zinc!
4. Lower risk of heart disease
Is a vegan diet healthy when it comes to heart health? Scientists have found that vegan diets can prevent, and even reverse heart disease complications. Vegan diets are virtually cholesterol-free, eliminating the risk of dangerous plaque accumulating and clogging the arteries, therefore preventing blood flow from reaching the heart the way it should. America’s number one killer is no match for a plant-powered body!
The optimal diet is a plant-based one
So, is a vegan diet healthy for you? We dare to say it is the healthiest diet anyone could follow. Thinking of going plant-based soon? Get ready for the best nutrition, energy, digestion, and appearance of your life.
To find out more, read: What Can Vegans Eat?