One of the main reasons why many consumers want to become vegan is the comparatively high eco-friendliness of a plant-based diet. A new study published in “The Lancet Planetary Health” shows that this argument is supported by scientific evidence. The study shows a direct link between human health, environmental sustainability and safe food sources. The results of the study suggest that a vegan diet pollutes the environment 42-84 percent less than a meat-based diet.
How the Shortfalls of the Planetary Health Diet Could Be Addressed From a Plant-Forward Perspective
In 2019, the landmark EAT-Lancet report outlined a new Planetary Health Diet designed to improve human health and sustainability. The guidelines recommend eating more whole plant foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, while decreasing the consumption of less healthy foods such as red meat, sugar, and refined grains. While the recommendations have gained significant traction, they have also attracted criticism from some quarters, including claims that the diet could lead to micronutrient shortages. A new study published in The Lancet aims to address these concerns, recommending seven thematic areas for the development of the Planetary Health Diet. Bioavailability The bioavailability of certain nutrients in plant-based foods, such as iron, zinc, and calcium, can be lower than in animal-source foods. However, the …