Going vegan can be a big life change, but it comes with a host of health benefits that may surprise you. From improved weight management to a reduced risk of chronic conditions, the vegan diet has much to offer. Here are 10 surprising health benefits of going vegan.
- Weight Loss: Many people find that they lose weight on a vegan diet due to the focus on whole, plant-based foods that are lower in calories and fat. A vegan diet can also help to regulate blood sugar levels, which can lead to fewer cravings and better appetite control. In addition, plant-based proteins have been shown to be more satisfying and lead to a feeling of fullness that can help with weight management. One study found that people following a vegan diet for 18 weeks lost an average of 4.3 more pounds than those following a non-vegan diet.
- Lower Cholesterol: Plant-based diets have been shown to lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the threat of heart disease. A vegan diet can also lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a vegan diet was more effective at lowering cholesterol levels than a diet that included meat. Another study found that a vegan diet led to a significant reduction in both total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Vegan diets have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Plant-based diets are high in fiber, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can help protect against these conditions. For example, a vegan diet has been shown to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as well as lowering the risks of certain types of cancer, such as bone, prostate, and colon cancer. In addition, vegans tend to have a lower body mass indicator( BMI) and lower rates of obesity compared to non-vegans.
- Improved Gut Health: The fiber-rich nature of a vegan diet can improve gut health by promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the digestive system. This can lead to better digestion and a stronger immune system. A vegan diet is also lower in saturated fat, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and ameliorate gut health.
- Stronger Bones: Despite the common belief that dairy is necessary for strong bones, vegans can still get the calcium and other nutrients they need for healthy bones from plant-based sources. Leafy greens, nuts, and seeds are all good sources of calcium in a vegan diet. In addition, a vegan diet can help to reduce the threat of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to come weak and brittle. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that vegans had higher bone viscosity than non-vegans, even though they consumed less calcium.
- Better Kidney Function: A vegan diet may help to improve kidney function in people with kidney disease. Plant-based diets are generally lower in protein and sodium, both of which can be hard on the kidneys. A study published in the Journal of Renal Care found that a vegan diet improved kidney function in people with kidney disease. Another study found that a vegan diet also slowed the progression of kidney disease in people with kidney damage.
- Improved Skin Health: A vegan diet can improve the health and appearance of your skin. Plant-based foods are high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the skin from damage and reduce the signs of aging. In addition, a vegan diet is generally lower in saturated fat, which can lead to healthier, glowing skin. One study found that people following a vegan diet had a significant improvement in skin hydration and skin elasticity compared to those following a non-vegan diet.
- Increased Energy: Many people find that they have more energy on a vegan diet due to their higher intake of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in nutrients and lower in fat. Additionally, a vegan diet can help to improve the function of mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of the cells that produce energy. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that people following a vegan diet had significantly increased energy levels compared to those following a non-vegan diet.
- Better Sleep: A vegan diet may lead to better sleep due to the lower intake of stimulants like caffeine and the higher intake of tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce sleep-inducing hormones. Additionally, a vegan diet is generally lower in saturated fat, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve sleep quality. One study found that people following a vegan diet had significantly better sleep quality compared to those following a non-vegan diet.
- Lower Carbon Footprint: A vegan diet can also have a positive impact on the environment. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and a plant-based diet requires fewer natural resources to produce. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Environmental Science & Technology found that a vegan diet had the lowest carbon footprint of any diet, including meat-based and other plant-based diets. A vegan diet can also help to reduce water usage and pollution, as animal agriculture is a major contributor to water pollution and the continued reduction of natural resources.
As we can see, the vegan diet offers numerous health benefits, from weight loss and lower cholesterol levels to a reduced risk of chronic diseases and improved gut health. A vegan diet can also have a positive impact on your overall well-being, including improving the health of your skin and helping you to get a better night’s sleep. With the added benefits of a vegan diet’s positive impact on the environment, by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, by going vegan you’ll not only be improving your overall lifestyle for the better, but helping to make a bigger impact on the planet as well.. If you’re interested in exploring more benefits of the vegan lifestyle, be sure to check out some of our other articles exploring a wide variety of topics to choose from.
