Plant-based eating has seen an explosion in the past few decades. According to market research plant-based eating is now a $7 billion market in the United States. Whether you are the vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian almost 40% of Americans are shifting to a plant-based diet according to 2018 Nielsen report.
A plant-based diet supplies all the essential nutrients, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals of a healthy diet. Plant based diets are usually higher in fiber and phytonutrients. However, some vegans may need to add vitamin B12 supplement to ensure they receive all the nutrients required.
Years of research has shown to support overall health, including a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain cancers (colorectal) and increased longevity.
Recently, consumers ranked the health of the planet as their number one concern over there personal health when they choose to eat more plant-based.
Don’t know where to start, have no worry The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine has developed a vegan start kit for you, click here to learn more and get started.
Personally, at our FRESH Medicine office our food prescription is simple: Eat More Plants. It’s good for you and for the planet.
Favorite Plant-Based Recipes:
Our favorite plant-based meal hack is freezing your bananas. It’s a secret weapon. For making vegan ice cream! To freeze your bananas, peel the fruit and break up into 1- to 2-inch-long pieces then place in an air-tight plastic bag over night. Blend them and you’ve got instant banana soft serve. You can also add cocoa powder, peanut butter, or fruit for endless varieties of this healthy treat.
Ok, one more, need a quick lunch, in a food processor, add a can of chickpeas with some onion, carrot, celery, dash of yellow mustard, salt, pepper, and then mix it all together with vegan mayo for a delicious tuna substitute.
And of course, any of Performance Kitchen's plant-based meals. There's even a Plant-Based Meal Plan if you're looking for variety!
This article has been reviewed by a Medical Doctor, Dr. Robert Graham, for additional accuracy.