The Health Benefits of Eating Plants

When we say, “eating plants,” you might think of vegetables and fruit. But whole grains, beans, lentils, nuts, olives and seeds are considered plant foods as well. Plant foods are packed with nutrition including fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. In addition, plant foods are relatively lower in calories compared to other foods, so they may play a role in weight management.

Research shows that eating a healthful plant-based diet like the Mediterranean Diet is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension and all-cause mortality (meaning death from all causes). Overall, we see a lower risk of chronic diseases in people who eat more plant foods, especially healthy plant foods. In addition, plant foods provide a diverse range of flavors, colors and textures so we don’t sacrifice the pleasure of eating. Learn more about how you can include more plants on your plate.

What’s your favorite plant-based meal that includes at least 3 kinds of plants? Share with us @GPEmbrace.

Source:

Kahleova H, Levin S and Barnard N. Cardio-Metabolic Benefits of Plant-Based Diets. Nutrients 2017;9:848.