Following a plant-based diet means consuming products that come solely from plants. In contrast to veganism, which more strictly refrains from eating animal products at all, plant-based diets are flexible in that they encourage the consumption of more plant products versus consumption of animal products. Essentially, the goal of plant-based diets is to integrate more plant-based products into your diet, whether it is a gradual progression or a permanent switch.
However, contrary to what you may think, plant-based diets actually encompass a wide variety of foods outside of vegetables and fruits such as:
- Beans
- Whole Grains
- Legumes
- Nuts
- Oils
- Seeds
Why Plant-Based?
One of the reasons that plant-based diets are becoming popular is due to some of the health benefits associated with it. Not only do plants contain high amounts of fibre, but they also contain key vitamins and minerals that are important in maintaining good health. Additionally, plant-based diets can potentially reduce your risk of developing certain health conditions, such as heart disease (lowering blood pressure levels) and preventing diabetes.
However, what popularized this movement and why are so many people shifting over to a plant-based diet? Two key drivers are health and the environment.
Especially during a pandemic, health in general has become a key concern for many individuals than ever before. Alongside this concern is the ongoing environmental concerns. Many people are beginning to opt for plant products due to the less negative effects they have on the environment compared to animal products. Switching over to a plant based diet helps decrease our carbon footprint, conserve water, cleaner air quality, and save animals and habitats that are a part of our ecosystem of survival.
However, as you read through this article, remember that this change doesn’t have to happen overnight. You can go at your own pace and slowly implement parts of this diet into your everyday life.
Arise N' Go hopes to provide improvement in people's lives through helpful tips, sharing our favorite resources and also a tasty snack made with Water Lily Seeds. Our goal is to provide balance to individuals in all aspects of life. Learn more at: ariseonthego.ca
Sources:
http://goodfoodscorecard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/COR-RSC-Why-Shift-PB-2018-01-30.pdf
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-right-plant-based-diet-for-you
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/plant-based-diet-vs-vegan