A plant-based diet focuses on eating foods that come primarily from plants. This includes fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes. Some people follow a fully vegan diet (avoiding all animal products), while others include small amounts of animal-based foods like dairy, eggs, or fish occasionally. The beauty of a plant-based diet is its flexibility – it’s more about adding plants than cutting everything else out completely.
Benefits of a plant-based diet:
- Supports heart health and may lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Rich in fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants which help fight inflammation and support digestion.
- Can aid weight management thanks to its naturally lower calorie density.
- Often improves energy levels and overall wellbeing when done properly.
For those who train regularly, a plant-based diet can still provide plenty of protein and essential nutrients – think lentils, tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, quinoa, and protein-rich plant milks. Planning is key to make sure you get enough iron, B12, calcium, and omega-3s, which can be topped up with fortified foods or supplements if needed.
Plant-based eating isn’t just a diet – it’s often a lifestyle that supports personal health, sustainability, and animal welfare.
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