As the name suggests, a plant-based diet includes food originating from plants, including fruits, vegetables, nuts and oilseeds, whole grains, cereals, and pulses. This diet does not include food of animal origin and processed products.
According to Minal Shah, RD, Chief Nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, “A plant-based diet has proven to have numerous health benefits that include reducing the risk of developing heart disease, certain cancers, diabetes, weight loss and weight management. However, the drawback of this diet is that, in the long term, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly those associated with Vitamin B12 and Calcium. In addition, a plant-based diet requires proper planning as the food items in this category are perishable and should be bought only in limited quantities.”
Also, protein, an essential nutrient required for healthy living, is only found in incomplete forms in most plant-based sources. These items must be combined with the correct items like grains/cereals to make them complete protein. That being said, a plant-based diet is highly recommended if it is sustainable for your health and, more importantly, if you can make the required diet modifications. This diet helps to conserve the environment as the impact caused by the livestock industry is substantial in the overall economy.
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