Plant-Based Diets: A Look at the Evidence

Hey there, everyone. Brendan here, talking about something that is becoming more relevant by the day, I think. There's a growing discussion about the power and efficacy of plant-based diets going on, and I wanted to look into why they're so popular and the evidence for their effectiveness.

Of course, not all plant-based diets are created equal, and one should always check the ingredient list and make sure you know what you're putting into your body. There's also no slam-dunk universal answer for this sort of thing, because everyone's body has different needs. Still, considering the rising popularity of plant-based diets, it's worth discussing at least in broad strokes the effects they can have on you. It's also something you may want to discuss with your doctor before making any sweeping changes, depending on your health and other factors.

One of the most important benefits of plant-based diets is their positive effect on cardiovascular health. Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are associated with lower levels of LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) and reduced blood pressure. These factors collectively decrease the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular conditions. Furthermore, plant-based diets are often lower in saturated fats and free of cholesterol, negative elements common to animal products. 

Alright, here's a rapid-fire round. For each of the assertions made about plant-based diets, I've linked reputable sources that support them: 

• Increased energy levels 
• Better digestion
• Increased intake of many nutrients
• Beneficial for weight management
• Better skin health
• Inflammation reduction

One of the other prominent benefits discussed among advocates for vegetarian diets is its potential mental health effect, particularly for depression. Studies have shown that, although poor diets can negatively influence mental health (particularly depression), there is nothing solid to suggest that the inverse is true. Plant-based foods do often contain folate, a deficiency of which has been linked to neuro-degenerative disorders, though the science on this and other mental aspects of a plant-based diet are still developing. 

There are reasons other than your own health to consider this kind of diet, too. The effects of the meat industry on the planet are devastating; a huge cause of the deforestation efforts in the Amazon is to clear additional space for more cattle. Going onto a plant-based diet can help reduce your environmental impact, something critical in the era of ever-quickening climate change. Additionally, the variety and creativity involved in preparing plant-based meals can introduce you to a wider range of foods and culinary techniques!

Of course, Nakee Butter is in itself a plant-based food. We incorporate a variety of high-quality ingredients to ensure maximum benefit; you can read more about that in our earlier blogs, as well as on the shop pages for each flavor. We're honored to fuel adventures the world over, and we'd love to help support yours as well!

If you've tried (or are right now on) a plant-based diet, feel free to leave a comment telling us what you think of it and how it has affected your health journey. We'd love to hear your ideas and thoughts! Thanks for reading; this is Brendan, signing off for now.