Leave a Comment / Health News / By Ava Bell-Taylor, M.D

Plant-based diets have many benefits. When people think of protein, they typically think of meat. However, many plant-based foods are also high in protein. Some examples of high-protein vegan foods include beans, lentils, quinoa, tofu, and spinach.

Quinoa is another excellent vegan protein option, as it is a complete protein source. Nuts and seeds are good vegan protein sources and can be easily added to many dishes. As you can see, many delicious and nutritious vegan protein sources are available, so you don’t need to miss out on this vital nutrient just because you’re avoiding meat.

Plant-based protein foods are not only rich in protein, but they also contain other essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. As a result, they can be an excellent part of a healthy diet. Additionally, plant-based proteins are often easier for the body to digest than animal proteins. Plant-based proteins are a perfect option for people looking for a healthy source of protein that is also easy on the digestive system.

There are many reasons why people might choose to follow a plant-based protein diet. Some people may do it for health reasons, while others may do it for environmental or ethical reasons. Whatever the reason, here are 17 benefits of following a plant-based protein diet.

1. Better for the Environment: Plant-based protein diets are better for the environment than diets that rely on animal protein. Animal protein production requires a great deal of land, water, and energy, which can lead to environmental problems such as deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Plant-based proteins require far less land and water to produce and have a much lower carbon footprint than animal proteins.
2. Humane: Many believe it is more humane to consume plant-based proteins because animals raised for food live in cramped and unsanitary conditions and are given hormones and antibiotics. Animals raised for food often live in cramped conditions and are given hormones and antibiotics. By choosing plant-based proteins, we can help reduce the demand for animal products and promote the humane treatment of animals.
3. Healthier for the Body: Plant-based protein diets are also more beneficial for the body than diets that rely on animal protein. Animal proteins are typically high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Plant-based proteins are generally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a healthier option for those looking to improve their heart health.
4. More Fiber: Fiber is a carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. Fiber is a pre-biotic that helps feed and support the growth of healthy gut flora and probiotics. It’s crucial for keeping the digestive system healthy and promoting regularity. Plant-based proteins are typically higher in fiber than animal-based proteins.
5.  Lower Risk of Cancer: Plant-based protein diets have also been shown to lower cancer risk. Diets high in animal protein have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer. On the other hand, plant-based proteins have been shown to protect against cancer by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system.
6. Lower Cost: A plant-based protein diet is also typically cheaper than an animal-based. Meat, poultry, and fish are typically more expensive than beans, lentils, and tofu.
7. Accessible to Everyone: A plant-based protein diet is also more accessible, regardless of income level. Animal-based proteins are often out of reach for many people due to their high cost. Beans, lentils, and tofu are much more affordable and can be found in most grocery stores.
8. Delicious and Versatile: Plant-based proteins are also delicious and versatile. There are endless ways to prepare beans, lentils, tofu, and other plant-based proteins so that they taste great. They can be used in various dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and burgers.
9. Good for Your Gut health: A plant-based protein diet is also good for your gut health. Animal-based proteins can be challenging to digest and lead to gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Plant-based proteins are much easier to digest and are gentle on the gut.
10. Better for Weight Loss: Plant-based protein diets are also better for weight loss than diets that rely on animal protein. Animal proteins are high in calories and fat, while plant-based proteins are typically lower in calories and fat. Additionally, plant-based proteins tend to be more filling than animal proteins, meaning that people on a plant-based diet are less likely to overeat. Plant-based proteins tend to be lower in calories than animal-based proteins. Lower calories can be beneficial if you’re trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
11.  May Reduce the Risk of Diabetes: Plant-based protein diets may also reduce the risk of diabetes. Diets high in animal protein have been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, while plant-based proteins have been shown to protect against diabetes by helping regulate blood sugar levels.
12. Antioxidants: Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body against damage from harmful substances called free radicals. Some plant-based proteins are high in antioxidants, which can help to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
13. Phytochemicals: Phytochemicals are compounds that occur naturally in plants. Some of them have been shown to have health benefits, such as reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease.
14. Vitamins and minerals: Plant-based proteins are often a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
15. Lower risk of foodborne illness: There is a lower risk of foodborne illness when consuming plant-based proteins because they are not as likely to contain harmful bacteria or parasites.
16. Lower Risk of Cancer: Plant-based protein diets have also been shown to lower cancer risk. Diets high in animal protein have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer. On the other hand, plant-based proteins have been shown to protect against cancer by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system.
17. May Reduce the Risk of Diabetes: Plant-based protein diets may also reduce the risk of diabetes. Diets high in animal protein have been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, while plant-based proteins have been shown to protect against diabetes by helping regulate blood sugar levels.

If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your health, adding more plant-based proteins to your diet is a great place to start. There are plenty of benefits to be gained from eating more plants, and protein is just one part of that. So why not give it a try? You may find that you enjoy the taste of plant-based proteins as much as – or even more than – animal-based ones. And who knows? You may just discover that a plant-based diet is the best for your health. Be sure to speak with your holistic doctor about the benefits of a plant-based diet!


Here’s a great YouTube Video showing how to make the best vegan chicken and waffles!