فوائد صحية محتملة لتحول إلى حمية نباتية
على الرغم من أن الدراسات تدعم النظام الغذائي المعتمد على النباتات، فإن الخبراء يشيرون إلى أن التحول إلى حمية نباتية ليس بالضرورة "ضمان" لصحة أفضل. organizational such as the American Heart Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend a plant-based diet that allows for moderate consumption of meat, rather than complete elimination.
However, research suggests that reducing or eliminating meat may lower the risk of developing several chronic diseases, including heart disease, strokes, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
Reducing Fat and Inflammation
According to registered dietitian Keri Gans, many of the benefits come from reducing saturated fat in the diet, as "meat, especially red and processed meat, contains high amounts of saturated fat, which is linked to heart disease, strokes, and some types of cancer".
Additionally, registered dietitian Shonali Swartz notes that plant-based diets help reduce inflammation in the body.
Changes in the Body
The changes that may occur in the body after giving up meat depend on the type of diet the individual was following before giving up meat, and how they replace it with other sources of protein.
Gans says that "reducing meat may lead to reduced inflammation, which can contribute to lowering the risk of high cholesterol and heart disease".
In addition to this, giving up meat may also lead to changes in the gut microbiome.
Nutrient Deficiencies
One of the common concerns when giving up meat is the potential for nutrient deficiencies, such as protein, iron, and vitamin B12. However, Gans notes that getting these nutrients from a plant-based diet is "totally possible".
Pristi recommends getting iron from legumes, whole grains, and nuts, and suggests taking vitamin C-rich foods like bell peppers and citrus fruits to enhance iron absorption. She also recommends getting zinc from legumes, nuts, and whole grains.
How You May Feel After Giving Up Meat
The answer to this question varies from person to person. Gans says that "if meat is replaced with nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, and legumes, individuals may experience increased energy, improved digestion, and better sleep".
On the other hand, Pristi notes that some people may feel more energetic after giving up meat, while others may experience fatigue due to changes in their diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is no guarantee that a plant-based diet will lead to better health, there are potential benefits to reducing or eliminating meat from one’s diet. By reducing saturated fat and inflammation, and potentially improving gut health, individuals may experience a range of health benefits. However, it is essential to ensure that nutrient deficiencies are addressed by incorporating a variety of plant-based foods into one’s diet.
