All articles tagged with #plant based diet
Most Americans view meat as part of a healthy diet and seek more meat due to a protein-led trend and new dietary guidelines; health experts warn that protein needs are individual and red meat carries risks like saturated fat, inflammation, and links to heart disease and some cancers, urging more plant-based or seafood protein while the meat industry defends its role and shoppers stay budget-conscious.
Nearly half of Americans don’t know processed meat raises colorectal cancer risk; after learning, about two-thirds support warning labels. Awareness among healthcare providers is low. A plant-based, high-fiber diet and healthy habits lower risk, with each 10 grams of daily fiber linked to up to 10% risk reduction; programs like Food for Life help people adopt these changes.
A Vanderbilt-led study linking gut bacteria–related metabolites to coronary heart disease identifies three practical habits to boost gut health and lower heart risk: eat mostly plant-based, high-fiber, minimally processed foods (prefer diverse fiber); cook from scratch to cut ultra-processed items; and exercise regularly, which supports a healthier gut microbiome and may reduce cardiovascular risk.
During menopause, estrogen decline slows metabolism and can shift fat to the belly. Dietitians say a plant-based, protein‑rich approach—especially soy and other beans—can help curb weight gain and ease symptoms like bloating and hot flashes. Good options include soy products, beans, lentils, edamame, tempeh, and other plant proteins, while limiting processed foods and staying active.
A national poll finds nearly half of Americans don’t know that processed meat increases colorectal cancer risk, and two-thirds back warning labels on such products; experts note the public’s interest in diet-related cancer guidance and highlight that plant-based diets and fiber can lower colorectal cancer risk.
A national Israeli study of nearly 1.2 million infants shows vegan and vegetarian diets support normal growth through age two, with only minor early differences that fade by 24 months when diets are properly planned and access to nutrition counseling is available.
A Chinese study of over 5,000 adults aged 80+ found non-meat eaters were less likely to reach 100, but this was mainly among those who were underweight; including fish, dairy, or eggs erased the difference. The findings suggest that nutritional needs in very old age—especially protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D—along with body weight, influence centenarian odds more than simply avoiding meat. Since it’s an observational study, it shows associations, not causation, and plant-based diets can still be healthy for younger and healthier adults while requiring careful planning later in life.
Doctors say eight simple, science-backed habits can extend both lifespan and healthspan: eat a plant-forward diet; move regularly with cardio and strength training; build and preserve muscle; cut back on alcohol and added sugar and ultra-processed foods; manage stress; maintain strong social relationships; and prioritize seven-plus hours of quality sleep.
Cardiologist Dr. Andrew Freeman emphasizes that the best New Year's habit for 2026 is to focus on a strong lifestyle, including regular exercise and a predominantly plant-based diet, to prevent heart disease and improve overall health.
A large study shows that Mediterranean and plant-based diets can significantly reduce the risk of chronic constipation in aging adults, independent of fiber intake, highlighting the importance of healthy eating patterns for gut health beyond cardiovascular benefits.
Titanosaurs, a diverse and successful group of sauropod dinosaurs, thrived for millions of years by merging reptile and mammal traits, growing rapidly, and feeding on abundant plants, until their extinction caused by an asteroid impact 66 million years ago.
Jeni Britton, founder of Jeni’s Ice Cream, advocates for prioritizing fiber intake for better health, sharing her personal journey of improved well-being through increased fiber consumption and launching a fiber-rich fruit bar line called Floura, which aims to promote gut health and overall wellness.
Eating a healthy diet can significantly increase lifespan, but some commonly perceived 'healthy' foods like overly processed meat alternatives, instant oatmeal, fruit juice, acai bowls, protein powders, and egg whites may actually harm longevity due to high sodium, added sugars, or lack of nutrients. Experts recommend focusing on whole, minimally processed foods and reading ingredient labels carefully to support long-term health.
Research indicates that not all plant-based diets are beneficial for heart health; diets high in refined grains, processed foods, and sugars may increase heart attack risk, while whole, minimally processed plant foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes support cardiovascular health. Experts recommend focusing on whole foods and healthy fats, such as those in the Mediterranean and DASH diets, rather than simply avoiding animal products.
A large review indicates that consuming 40-60 grams of cruciferous vegetables daily, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 20-26%, thanks to compounds like sulforaphane that support detoxification and reduce inflammation. Incorporating these vegetables into a balanced diet may significantly lower cancer risk, especially when combined with other healthy lifestyle habits.