A Healthy Way to Live
Plant-based diets can be very healthful. In fact, many people initially choose to go vegan to benefit their health.
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| Photo courtesy of USDA ARS. |
“It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that appropriately planned vegetarian diets, including total vegetarian or vegan diets, are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Well-planned vegetarian diets are appropriate for individuals during all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence, and for athletes.… An evidence-based review showed that vegetarian diets can be nutritionally adequate in pregnancy and result in positive maternal and infant health outcomes. The results of an evidence-based review showed that a vegetarian diet is associated with a lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease. Vegetarians also appear to have lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and lower rates of hypertension and type 2 diabetes than nonvegetarians. Furthermore, vegetarians tend to have a lower body mass index and lower overall cancer rates.”
“Position
of the American Dietetic Association: Vegetarian
Diets,”
Journal of the American
Dietetic Association, Volume 109, Issue 7, July 2009
Simply avoiding animal products, however, will not ensure optimal health. Like everyone, vegans should eat a well-balanced diet. Protein, vitamins B12 and D, omega-3 fats, calcium, and iodine are important.
Fortunately, there are plenty of nutritious and convenient options for vegans today, including various high-protein meat substitutes and fortified dairy alternatives.
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| Photo courtesy of Animal Place. |
Please see VeganHealth.org for more detailed information on health and nutrition, including “Staying Healthy on Plant-Based Diets” – a detailed article with recommendations based on the latest nutrition research. Contact us for a free copy of our Guide to Cruelty-Free Eating, which contains an abridged version of the article. And, to keep up to date with the latest nutrition news and receive notifications of updates to VeganHealth.org, please visit JackNorrisRD.com and subscribe to Jack’s blog.
Widening the Circle