Guest post by Cassady Black, Georgia State Dietitian-to-Be
As someone who is not currently plant-based, the idea of transitioning to a plant-based diet is both intriguing and daunting. Don't get me wrong, I love my salmon, eggs and yogurt (let's be honest—the real thing that holds me back is ice cream). However, I often find myself wondering what health improvements I might see if I were to transition to a plant-based diet. So, I rounded up my top five benefits {perceived, turned into evidence-based} to going plant-based!
5 Wellness Benefits of Going Plant-Based
1. Improve mood
An inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid called arachinonic acid is found in food items such as eggs, chicken and other meats and has been shown to cause neuro-inflammation, a.k.a, it causes the brain to become inflamed. Inflammation of the brain has been linked to increased suicide risk and episodes of depression.
Significant improvements in depression, anxiety, fatigue and emotional well-being has been found in many individuals who adopt a plant-based diet. Plant foods contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that reduce inflammation in brain cells. Plant-based foods are also packed with fiber, which helps to stabilize blood sugar and regulate mood swings.
As someone who was literally born with anxiety, this is a benefit I could definitely cash in on.
2. Save money
Recently, I tried to make a budget. I gave myself a certain amount of money to spend each week on groceries. I have one word (acronym really): LOL. However, it seems that transitioning to a plant-based diet could be a little easier on the wallet.
Studies indicate that adopting a plant-based diet can reduce grocery expenses by approximately $650 annually, with some findings suggesting possible savings of up to one-third of your food budget compared to a typical American diet that incorporates meat and dairy. One source claims that going plant based can save up to $650 a year!
3. Improve BMI
Many sources suggest that living a plant-based lifestyle equals a lower BMI and surely you've noticed by now all the noise on social media about certain "diets" or "cleanses" to reduce your waistline. We know that extreme diets and/or fad diets do not typically last long-term. Since going plant-based is definitely a lifestyle, not a diet, therefore, it is more sustainable.
4. Improve Fitness
I work out. I lift weights. I'm passionate about my fitness. So one concern with transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle for me is not getting enough protein and compromising my lean muscle mass. Turns out, going plant-based could actually improve your fitness status! One sources suggests that going plant-based not only provides adequate protein but also could eliminate the need for bulk/cut cycling. Instead, you could just be "cut" year-round. I mean, zero complaints here!
5. Improve Overall Wellness
I will take any opportunity I can to improve my health. Transitioning to a plant-based diet is associated with lesser incidences of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Say no more!
Plant-based eating for the win!
In conclusion, transitioning to a plant-based diet may feel like a big step, especially if you're someone who loves certain non-plant-based foods (hello, ice cream). But when you consider the evidence-based benefits—improved mood, potential savings on groceries, a healthier BMI, enhanced fitness, and better overall wellness—it’s clear that the effort could be well worth it.
Small changes, like incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine, could have a significant impact on your health and well-being over time. While the idea might seem daunting, focusing on the positives and starting slow can make the journey both manageable and rewarding. Who knows? You might find yourself enjoying the benefits (and the foods!) more than you ever imagined.
Hi! My name is Cassady Black and I am a student in Georgia State University’s coordinated program for dietetics . I have been very passionate about health, wellness and nutrition for a long time, while I have been veg-curious for a short period of time. I also love to try my hand at blogging and content curation. My ultimate goal is to start a virtual business that allows individuals easy access to solid nutrition guidance and lifestyle change!
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