Why Eat Plant-Based?

Swapping a plant-based burger for one made from animal protein is a healthier more environmentally friendly way to eat….

And it tastes good too!

Recently, there’s been a lot of information in the news about plant-based products, and even more hype around switching to a plant-based diet. You may have seen big chains such as Burger King® and Dunkin'® advertising products containing plant-based meat such as Beyond Beef® and Impossible™ meat. So why all the excitement about going plant-based?

First, let’s define what it means to consume a plant-based diet. Essentially, by eating plant-based, you consume foods derived from plants and not animals. This means eliminating meat, dairy, and eggs from your diet and instead creating meals heavy in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Traditionally, an American diet is very dependent on animal products, yet, for a developed country, we have some of the sickest people. Coincidence? Maybe not. Numerous studies have linked consuming animal products with the development of multiple chronic conditions. These include but are not limited to diabetes, chronic pain, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obesity, cancer, and possibly erectile dysfunction.

Often, patients counseled on a plant-based diet see amazing outcomes once they decide to switch from a diet heavy in animal protein to a plant-based routine. Patients are not only able to get off many of their medications for their chronic conditions, but they also feel better, lose weight, and have more energy. I have seen this firsthand with my own patients.

Research has also shown that a plant-based diet is one of the best ways to prevent, and treat, chronic diseases. Not only is a plant-based diet beneficial for your health, but it also helps fight climate change and prevent animal cruelty. A win-win for all!

If you’re interested in making the switch, reach out to your health care provider to learn more about the different ways you can start to incorporate a plant-based diet into your life. Your future self will thank you!