There are many reasons why people choose to go vegan. For some, it’s a matter of ethics, while others believe that veganism is the healthiest way to live. Whatever the reason, there are many benefits to be had by making the switch to a vegan lifestyle. Here are six of the most important ones:
1. You’ll Lose Weight
If you’re carrying around a few extra pounds, going vegan is a great way to shed them. A vegan diet is naturally lower in calories than one that includes meat and dairy, so you’ll likely find yourself eating less without even trying. And since plant-based foods are typically packed with fiber, you’ll feel full and satisfied after meals, without the need to overeat. You can do some research if you visit www.veganfitguide.com or by reading various online resources. Keep in mind that you may not lose weight immediately, as your body will need time to adjust to the new way of eating. But once it does, the pounds should start coming off.
Additionally, since a vegan diet is typically rich in nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, you’re likely to get all the vitamins and minerals you need, without having to take supplements.
2. You’ll Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but you can greatly reduce your risk by following a vegan diet. That’s because plant-based foods are naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, both of which can clog your arteries and lead to heart disease. Eating a vegan diet has been shown to lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, as well as blood pressure and triglycerides. All of these are risk factors for heart disease. If you have heart disease, going vegan can also help to reverse it. In one study, participants who followed a vegan diet for 22 weeks saw a significant decrease in the severity of their coronary artery disease.
3. You’ll Reduce Your Cancer Risk
Cancer is another leading cause of death in the United States, but again, you can help to protect yourself by following a vegan diet. Studies have shown that vegans have a lower risk of developing cancer than meat-eaters. This may be due to the fact that plant-based foods are rich in antioxidants and fiber, both of which can help to protect cells from damage and keep the body healthy. Additionally, vegan diets tend to be low in fat and high in plant-based proteins, which have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer.
4. You’ll Lower Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition that occurs when your blood sugar levels are too high. Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly common, especially in developed countries where processed foods are plentiful. If you have type 2 diabetes, it’s important to control your blood sugar levels to prevent serious complications. A vegan diet can help you do this. Research has shown that plant-based diets can lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are important for people with type 2 diabetes.
5. You’ll Improve Your Digestive Health
If you suffer from digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, going vegan can help to improve your symptoms. That’s because plant-based diets are typically high in fiber, which is important for good digestive health. Fiber helps to keep things moving along your digestive tract and can also help to reduce inflammation. If you’re not used to eating a lot of fiber, start off slowly and increase your intake gradually to avoid gas and bloating.
6. You’ll Have Better Kidney Function
If you have kidney disease, following a vegan diet can help to improve your kidney function. That’s because a plant-based diet is typically lower in protein than a meat-based diet. And while you need some protein for good health, too much can actually be harmful to people with kidney disease. That’s because your kidneys have to work hard to process and excrete excess protein. A vegan diet can also help to lower blood pressure, which is important for people with kidney disease.
Going vegan can have many amazing benefits for your physical health. You’ll likely lose weight, reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes, and improve your digestive health. Additionally, following a vegan diet can be beneficial for people with kidney disease. If you’re not vegan already, consider giving it a try – you may be surprised at how great you feel! Plus, with so many delicious vegan recipes available, you’ll never get bored of eating plant-based meals.
