Whole Food Plant-Based Diet
Why Follow a Whole Food Plant-Based Diet?
A whole food plant-based diet is low in saturated fat, free of cholesterol and rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This type of diet is anti-inflammatory and prevents, treats or reverses some of the leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, kidney disease and high blood pressure. You do not need to count calories on this eating plan. In fact, people often lose weight naturally while eating this way. A plant-based diet, with a variety of whole foods, will contain enough nutrients and protein for the human body.
Avoid Processed Plant-Based Foods
Processed plant-based foods are comprised of fat and refined carbohydrates and are low in nutrients, fiber, vitamins and minerals. These foods rely on artificial ingredients such as preservatives, colors and flavors to lengthen their shelf life and enhance their visual appeal and addictive nature.
The Problem with Animal-Based Diets
An animal-based diet is typically high in saturated and animal fats and elevates blood cholesterol levels. This type of diet is proinflammatory and can promote development of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and peripheral arterial disease. An animal-based diet also can increase the body’s production of growth hormones, promote tumor development and increase the chances of developing osteoporosis.
Recommendation for Healthy Eating
Make small, gradual changes toward a whole food plant-based diet. When making these changes, try to emphasize vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Eat minimal amounts of plant-based processed foods such as white bread, plant-based cheeses and plant-based meat substitutions. Avoid animal products and plant fragments, including salt, oil and sugar.
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