The Skinny

Diets: they’re hard to follow but easy to come by, so what’s the right one?

Sorry, meat-lovers & carnivores (you might not like this one!) but research has consistently proven that eating a plant-based diet (Vegan and Vegetarian) is one of the best diets you can follow. Many of the chronic diseases and illnesses that affect a large portion of the United States population (think heart disease, diabetes, cancer) are oftentimes triggered by a diet high in meat and animal products. The secret to a long life may be to cut these or limit them in your everyday diet.

Eating a plant-based diet, first and foremost, is ideal for heart health and for losing or maintaining weight. This is because animal products are the only source of saturated fats, which are associated with weight gain and cardiovascular disease. Following a plant-based diet can also promise lower blood pressure levels, lower risk of heart attacks and strokes, and improved insulin function (and that’s especially great news for type-2 diabetics!). Diets that plant-based also are associated with better digestion because eating more plants means more fiber and healthier digestive bacteria.

In addition to the healthier lifestyle that eating plant-based creates for people, it can also contribute to a healthier environment. The production of raising livestock for consumption uses a lot of resources and produces a lot of waste products. Such as the statistic from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that livestock production is the culprit of 14.5% of greenhouse gas emissions. Forgoing meat and animal products is good for you and reduces your carbon footprint!

So I know, there are a lot of concerns about going vegan or vegetarian, some including protein sources or inability to eat anything good. But It’s really not so bad! As someone who was a vegetarian for 7 years, eating wholesome, nutritious foods can actually be really tasty! Here’s a sample of a day’s worth of meals that is completely vegan (see below). Of course, if you’re interested in reaping the benefits of this diet you can always cut things out slowly, like not eating red meat, or not drinking milk anymore.

Breakfast: Kashi Cereal with cut up strawberries

Mid-morning snack: Handful of almonds or Carrot sticks & Hummus

Lunch: Rice & Black Beans (with chopped red onion, avocado & shredded lettuce)

Dinner: Tofu & Veggie stir fry (with broccoli, bell peppers, baby corn, spinach, etc.)