Top 7 Benefits of a Vegan Diet
The vegan diet has become very popular recently. Some people become vegan to save animals and the environment while others believe it is the best diet for health. Here are the top 7 benefits of becoming vegan.
7. Rich in Nutrients
The vegan diet is very rich in nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, and proteins. Most vegan foods are rich in fibers and antioxidants and low in fats. Eating nutrient-rich foods prevent most of our modern health issues such as obesity and diabetes. (1, 2, 3)
6. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Animal foods and dairy products are high in cholesterol. Once you remove them from your diet, you will get rid of most of your dietary cholesterol. The vegan diet is very effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases. (4, 5, 6, 7)
5. Enhances Immune System
Fruits and vegetables are rich in immune-boosting elements that can help your body in fighting all kinds of diseases. Plant-based diet makes our immune system be able to fight even the most dangerous diseases such as cancers and other immunocompromising diseases. (8, 9, 10)
4. Weight Loss
The vegan diet is the ultimate solution for people looking for losing weight. Getting rid of meat and dairy products leads to decreasing the level of saturated fat in your body significantly. Studies show that people who turn vegans can lose up to 24 pounds in their first year. (11, 12, 13)
3. Avoidance of Foodborne Diseases
foodborne diseases need vectors. When you stop eating meat, you avoid most foodborne illnesses. Studies show that protein-rich foods such as meat, seafood, and poultry are the most common vectors for foodborne illnesses. (14, 15, 16, 17)
2. Glower and More Beautiful Skin
The foods you eat appear on your skin. Vegans have healthier and more glowing skin because of all the fruits and vegetables they eat. Switching to an animal-free diet will reduce the appearance of blemishes and bad body odor. Also, your nails and hair become healthier. (18, 19, 20)
1. Environmentally Friendly Diet
Following an animal-free diet reduces many environmental problems. Meat and dairy products are the main sources of toxic chemicals in most diets. Processing and transporting foods also increase the level of toxins in animal-based products. (21, 22)