Comparison Between Healthy Plant-Based Diets and Unhealthy Plant-Based Diets and Their Health Impacts

Abstract

A plant-based diet (PBD), also known as a vegetarian diet, has become a popular topic in recent years. Numerous research studies have investigated the advantageous aspects of adhering to a healthful PBD. Compared to the typical omnivorous diet, a healthful PBD, consisting of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help protect individuals from Type II Diabetes (T2D), cardiovascular diseases (CVD), cancer, and high blood pressure. This is primarily because PBD are rich in dietary fiber, micronutrients, polyphenols, and low in harmful saturated fatty acids. One of the key features of metabolic syndrome is insulin resistance, which leads to an increase in blood glucose levels. Insulin resistance can potentially trigger the development of CVD and T2D. Transitioning to a healthful PBD can reduce the risk of insulin resistance. Additionally, the risk of CVD can be reduced by replacing animal fats (saturated fatty acids) with vegetable fats (monounsaturated fatty acids), as MUFAs help lower low-density lipoprotein levels in cells. Dietary fibers play a significant role in promoting healthier body indexes. They slow down food movement in the intestine and facilitate the excretion process. Fiber can also reduce the risk of obesity by maintaining a better body mass index. However, it's important to note that not all PBD are healthy, and an irrational PBD can worsen one's physical condition.