Recent studies from the University of Oxford have shown that consumption of red meat, chicken and turkey is associated with a higher risk of nine different diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and pneumonia. American biochemist Thomas Colin Campbell, PhD. stated that the elimination of animal foods from the diet can lead to the treatment of the diseases in question.
The study further shows that a plant-based diet is beneficial not only for our planet, but also for the overall health of the human body.
- A plant-based diet is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
- Several studies suggest that a plant-based diet is often more effective than medication alone for preventing type 2 diabetes.
- Consumption of meat and dairy products is associated with an increased risk of cancer. However, plants produce many phytochemicals that protect cells from damage. As a result, people who eat only plants have been shown to have a lower risk of cancer by more than fifteen percent.
- People eating plant-based foods were also shown to have a reduction in blood pressure, systolic by 3.12 mmHg and diastolic by 1.92 mmHg. They had better results than people who eat meat and vegetarians.
- The high content of fiber in quality plant foods is beneficial for intestinal bacteria, which have a major impact on the overall health of the organism. Fiber also has a positive effect on the immune system and bowel function.
- More studies prove that some antioxidants contained in plants can effectively scavenge free radicals, protect cells, slow down aging and prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- Quality plant foods – such as leafy greens, legumes or whole grains are said to reduce the risk of stroke by up to ten percent.
