There have been discussions around a plant-based diet and how it can impact your health for many years now.

A plant-based diet is a diet based on foods derived from plants, including vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and fruits, but with few or no animal products.

Speaking to the Director of Fry Family Food Co, Tammy Fry, she said research shows that a more plant-based diet may help prevent, treat, or reverse some of our leading causes of death, including heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes and other health benefits which include improved digestion, increased energy with less afternoon slumps, improved sleep, better overall general health and vitality.

Fry said by going plant based, “we can reduce the impact of climate change, rainforest destruction, and pollution, while saving water and other precious resources.”

According to research, raising animals for food produces more greenhouse gas emissions than all of the cars, planes, and other forms of transportation combined.

“70% of all crops are fed to livestock, whilst 1 child dies every 45 sec from a malnutrition related disease 16kl of water to produce 1kg of meat and only 200l for 1 kg bread. Shouldn’t this be considered whilst Cape Town faces a major water crisis? 70 billion land animals slaughtered every year and these animals are having a major impact on our natural resources.  The time has come to look after what is left.  The time is now and people all over the world are changing to live a more conscious lifestyle”, said Fry.

Outlining how to avoid and enjoy a plant-based diet, Fry said one can enjoy a wide variety of whole plant-based foods, including fruit, vegetables, grains and ancient grains such as amaranth and quinoa. Eat nuts and seeds, pulses and beans.

“Meat alternatives, contain all the nutrition you need without the nasties and are quick and easy to prepare.  They also give you the opportunity to eat all your old favourites – think stir frys, lasagnes, burgers, Sunday roasts, and of course enjoy a braai with friends.

Avoid highly refined sugars, sugary drinks, dairy (including yoghurt, cheese, milk, and dairy ice cream), empty calorie snacks, white bread and fast food”, she said.

Source: www.iol.co.za