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Are Plant-Based Diets Healthy?
The degree to which a person includes animal foods in a plant-based diet can vary greatly.
To some, a plant-based diet prioritizes eating mostly plant-based foods while minimizing animal-based foods.
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While to others, it involvesavoiding any animal-based foodsaltogether.
Plant-based diets may also lower your risk fortype 2 diabetes.
There may also be a learning curve when changing your eating habits to a more plant-based diet.
Because of this, following a plant-based diet may require more careful planning to ensure nutrient needs are met.
Extra time may be required to plan, shop for, and prepare healthy plant-based meals and snacks.
Eating out may also pose some struggles, as not all restaurants offer healthy plant-based meals.
Adding a couple of snacks high in plant-based protein can also help you reach your daily protein goals.
Eating an assortment of plant-based foods each day can help you get a variety of nutrients in your diet.
Vitamin B12is the only nutrient not found directly in plant foods.
Plant-based omega-3 fats can be found in flaxseeds, walnuts, canola oil, and soy foods.
Focus on a foods-first approach to getting various nutrients in your diet.
Dietary vitamin and mineral supplements are an option if diet alone is not meeting needs.
Always talk with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
If that is too hard for you, try just one plant-based meal a day, such as breakfast.
you might also find many plant-based foods, meals, and meat substitutes at the grocery store.
Explore the different options and choose one to try each week.
Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables, then add protein and carbohydrates to the other half.
Foods to Eat
A plant-based diet can look different for everyone.
Some people may eat some animal foods, while others eat none.
However, the consistency of many plant-based foods is the constant in all plant-based diets.
With careful planning, a plant-based diet can be suitable for most people of all ages.
Your healthcare provider can inform you of any special considerations you might need to take.
Talk with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian if you want to follow a plant-based eating pattern.
They can help guide you in finding the best approach to fit your individual needs and lifestyle.
They may also contribute to improved mortality and overall quality of life.
Limiting added sugar, refined grains, and ultra-processed foods is usually also suggested.
A plant-based diet can be suitable for most people of all ages.
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