I do not normally feature other blog posts on my site but I was approached by NOBA who are passionate about educating society in regards to heart health, and wanted to collaborate to help educate the public. Plant-based diets are extremely relevant to this topic, so I wanted to help spread valuable information…
The Benefits
A plant-based diet will improve one’s general and overall health. Although, there are more specifics to consider:
- Heart health
Harvard researchers tracked the health habits of roughly 110,000 people for the period of 14 years. It was found that people with higher intakes of fruits and vegetables have less chance of developing cardiovascular disease.
- Aids in preventing diabetes
Roughly 387 million people are living with diabetes. According to the International Diabetes Federation, that number is expected to soar to nearly 600 million by 2035. Although reaching this number is preventable through a plant-based diet.
- Weight-loss
A lot of research has been carried out regarding a plant-based diet and weight loss. The findings suggest that those who follow a plant-based diet tend to consume fewer calories, and thus weigh less than those who do not.
- Fibre intake
Following a plant-based diet means consuming high quantities of fruits and vegetables, this means fibre is a key component of the diet. Fibre is an outstanding source for lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Fibre interacts with the ‘bad cholesterol’ in your digestive system and aids in removing it rather quickly from your body.
- Hypertension control
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower blood pressure. This is due to the high quantity of potassium which is present within a plant-based diet.
The American Heart Association also gathered research regarding potassium. Potassium helps to reduce the negative effects of sodium, which in turn reduces blood pressure levels.
High blood pressure can create stress and anxiety within an individual, potassium can prevent this.
Meat and most animal-based products contain little to no potassium and actually do the opposite of a plant-based diet, and raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Decreases cancer threats
Several foods such as meat and animal based products contain cancerous substances. Thus a plant-based diet, which is rich in nutrients from fruits and vegetables is advisable for those who have cancer; or have had cancer, in order to prevent it; slow it down; or never allow it to come back again.
Check out NOBA for more information on food for your heart health.
References:
http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/type-2-diabetes-guide/type-2-diabetes
http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/8-ways-plant-based-diet-protects-your-heart/
