The benefits of a plant-based diet
Following a plant-based diet can be beneficial to both your health and the health of the environment.
1. Plant-based diets can help you lose weight
Research has found following a plant-based diet can decrease obesity risk and aid in weight loss.
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"When one moves to a more plant-based diet, the animal-based foods are typically replaced with legumes, whole grains, and more fruits and vegetables. As these foods are filling, higher in fiber and nutrients, and lower in fat there is potentially reduced calorie intake leading to weight loss," Haar says.
What the research says: A small 2018 study found overweight people who followed a plant-based vegan diet for 16 weeks saw an improvement in body weight, fat mass, and insulin resistance markers compared to a control group. The decrease in fat was associated with an increased intake of plant protein, and decreased intake of animal protein.