In recent years, veganism has gained momentum as a sustainable lifestyle choice worldwide. Vegan diets tend to be rich in nutrients and low in saturated fats, which can improve heart health and protect against diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes. According to Dietician Umang Malhotra, "Several studies assessed the nutritional quality of vegetarian diets and found that they offer higher nutritional value compared to non-vegetarian diets. By adopting a vegan diet, Indians can reduce their risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, leading to a healthier life."
Why Do People Opt For Veganism?
Umang said, "Veganism is not just a dietary choice but also a way of life. Not only does adopting a vegan diet contribute positively to our health, but plant-based diets are also more affordable than meat-based diets, making it an economically viable choice for all. Thus, veganism is a holistic lifestyle choice that benefits personal health."
He further went on to list the following:
Goodbye Heart Disease, Hello Healthy Hearts: Recent research showcases the positive impact of a vegan diet on heart health that adopting a plant-based diet can reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and obesity. By embracing veganism, Indians can bid farewell to heart-related ailments, leading to healthier hearts for all.
Fight Diabetes with Plants: Diabetes is an escalating concern across India. However, adopting a vegan lifestyle can help prevent and manage diabetes effectively, individuals who follow a plant-based diet have reduced insulin resistance, and decreased incidence of type 2 diabetes. So why not kickstart your journey towards diabetes prevention with delicious plant-based meals.
Gut friendly: A healthy gut is the foundation for good overall health. A plant-based diet promotes a diverse and beneficial gut microbiome. This, in turn, can boost your immune system, improve digestion, and have a positive impact on overall health.
Cancer prevention: Cancer is a concerning health issue, but evidence suggests that eating high amounts of fruits and vegetables in a vegan diet rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants and phytochemicals may reduce the risk of cancers.
In addition to him, Dietician Garima Goyal said, "Vegan diets are associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. The emphasis on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes can help control blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Additionally, a vegan diet often leads to weight management, which is crucial for diabetes prevention."
Talking about antibiotic resistance, she further added, "Another important scientific consideration is the issue of antibiotic resistance. The overuse of antibiotics in animal farming can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a significant threat to human health. Reducing the demand for animal products can help combat this issue and protect public health."
Other Benefits Of Veganism:
Anushree Sharma, who is an MSc, RD (registered dietitian) and Certified Ketogenic diet dietitian mentioned the following:
- Since it is solely based on plant foods, such foods are low in fats , to be specific in saturated fats. Plant based foods contain unsaturated fats. In addition to this, plant based foods are also high in fibre, hence they are associated with lower risk of cardiac disorders, diabetes etc.
- Vegan diet , followed under close monitoring , also helps in weight loss, as they are high in fibre that provides satiety and are low in fats.
- Another important reason to switch to vegan diet is that it has no harmful effects on environment, whereas foods coming from animal sources - meat, includes more emission of carbon in the environment. Also, none of the animals are being ill-treated for vegan diet.
- Proteins can be managed if followed under the proper guidance of a qualified or registered dietitian.