Vegetarian diets can often be more affordable and healthier
There are several potential benefits associated with adopting a vegetarian diet. It's important to note that individual experiences may vary, and these benefits can depend on various factors including overall diet quality, lifestyle choices, and individual health conditions. A vegetarian diet is often associated with a lower risk of heart disease. It can help reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of stroke.
Vegetarian diets tend to be lower in calories and saturated fats, which may contribute to weight management and lower obesity rates. Some studies suggest that a vegetarian diet may be associated with a lower risk of certain cancers, especially colon and breast cancer. Vegetarian diets can contribute to better blood sugar control and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
A well-balanced vegetarian diet can provide ample nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Vegetarian diets, especially those rich in fiber, can promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of constipation.
Vegetarian diets can be cost-effective, as plant-based protein sources like beans, lentils, and grains are often more affordable than meat. Adopting a vegetarian diet can encourage exploration of a wide variety of plant-based foods and recipes, leading to a more diverse and interesting culinary experience.
Many vegetarian staples such as beans, and lentils can be purchased in bulk, which can be more cost-effective in the long run. Fruits and vegetables, especially when bought in-season and locally, can be more affordable. Seasonal produce is often more abundant, lowering its cost. Plant-based diets can contribute to reduced food waste since many vegetarian staples have longer shelf lives and are less perishable compared to meat.
Some plant-based protein sources, such as beans and lentils, can be bought dry and prepared at home. This can be more economical than purchasing pre-packaged or pre-cooked meat products.
It's essential to note that while a vegetarian diet can offer numerous health benefits, it's important to plan meals carefully to ensure that nutritional needs are met. Consultation with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian is advisable, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or dietary concerns.
References
American Dietetic Association (ADA) and Dietitians of Canada:
Position of the American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada: Vegetarian diets. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 2003.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics:
Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Vegetarian Diets. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 2016.
World Health Organization (WHO):
Vegetarian diets. Fact sheet N°394, 2017.
National Institutes of Health (NIH):
Vegetarian Diets. MedlinePlus, NIH, 2021.
American Heart Association:
Plant-Based Diets. American Heart Association, 2021.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health:
The Nutrition Source - Vegetarian and Vegan Diets. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans:
U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025.
Environmental Working Group (EWG):
Meat Eater's Guide to Climate Change + Health. EWG, 2011.
The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM):
Vegetarian Starter Kit. PCRM, 2021.
NutritionFacts.org:
A non-profit organization providing evidence-based information on a plant-based diet, founded by Dr. Michael Greger.