New Trendy Plant-Based Food, is it a balanced diet?
#1
FitDay Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2022
Posts: 15

Plant-based food has become very trendy lately. People are now looking for ways to eat healthier and live better. Many people are switching from meat-heavy diets to plant-based ones. Is this trend good or bad?
The term 'plant-based' refers to foods that contain no animal flesh or dairy products. These include beans, nuts, seeds, grains, vegetables, fruits, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and other soy products.
While some studies show that a vegan diet is associated with lower rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and even Alzheimer's, others suggest that it might increase the risk of certain diseases such as kidney stones, osteoporosis, and gallstones.
While some may think that going vegan is difficult, the truth is that it’s actually quite simple. Here are four things beginners should know before starting a plant-based diet.
1. Start With Small Changes
It’s best to begin slowly when transitioning to a plant-based diet so that you can make sure that you’re able to maintain it. For instance, try replacing meat with beans or tofu instead of chicken or beef. Or swap out dairy products for almond milk or soy milk.
2. Be Prepared
Before making any big changes to your lifestyle, it’s helpful to be prepared. By having a well-stocked pantry, freezer, refrigerator, and cupboard, you’ll be ready to make quick substitutions
and avoid costly mistakes.
3. Eat More Plants
Eating more plants is another key component of a successful transition to a plant-based lifestyle. Try adding more vegetables and fruits to your plate. Swap out processed snacks for fresh fruit and veggie options.
The term 'plant-based' refers to foods that contain no animal flesh or dairy products. These include beans, nuts, seeds, grains, vegetables, fruits, tofu, tempeh, seitan, and other soy products.
While some studies show that a vegan diet is associated with lower rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and even Alzheimer's, others suggest that it might increase the risk of certain diseases such as kidney stones, osteoporosis, and gallstones.
While some may think that going vegan is difficult, the truth is that it’s actually quite simple. Here are four things beginners should know before starting a plant-based diet.
1. Start With Small Changes
It’s best to begin slowly when transitioning to a plant-based diet so that you can make sure that you’re able to maintain it. For instance, try replacing meat with beans or tofu instead of chicken or beef. Or swap out dairy products for almond milk or soy milk.
2. Be Prepared
Before making any big changes to your lifestyle, it’s helpful to be prepared. By having a well-stocked pantry, freezer, refrigerator, and cupboard, you’ll be ready to make quick substitutions
and avoid costly mistakes.
3. Eat More Plants
Eating more plants is another key component of a successful transition to a plant-based lifestyle. Try adding more vegetables and fruits to your plate. Swap out processed snacks for fresh fruit and veggie options.
#2
FitDay Member
Join Date: May 2023
Posts: 11

The new trendy plant-based food can indeed be a part of a balanced diet. Plant-based diets have gained popularity for their health benefits, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations. By incorporating a variety of plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, it is possible to obtain the necessary nutrients for a balanced diet. However, it is important to ensure that one's diet provides adequate amounts of key nutrients such as protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and others typically found in animal-based products. It's recommended to plan meals carefully, consider fortified options, and possibly consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to ensure optimal nutrition.