The Health Benefits of a Vegan Diet

Veganism is becoming more and more common. You may have heard the word but don’t know too much about it or you may have thought people go on a vegan diet to help with weight loss.

But what you may not know or realise is that there are so many more health benefits. For some, a vegan diet is done completely for their health.

Eating vegan can help you maintain a healthy heart and also offer some protection again diabetes and some forms of cancer.

Here are some further health benefits of a vegan diet:

Vitamins and nutrients

A vegan diet does not contain anything that contains animals or that is made from or by animals. To replace that, a vegan diet would contain a lot of plant-based food. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts and beans. Provided you stay away from any fast vegan options and have a balanced and varied diet you will be higher in these nutrients and minerals than a non-vegan more western diet.

Kidney function

It may surprise you but those with a vegan diet tend to have better kidney function than those who don’t. Other studies report that diabetics who substitute meat with plant protein can significantly reduce their risk of poor kidney function.

Research shows using soy protein instead of animal protein reduces the development of kidney disease in animals.

Lower blood sugar

Vegans also tend to have lower blood sugar levels, a higher sensitivity to insulin and up to a 50–78% lower risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

Reduced risk of cancer

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), about one-third of all cancers can be prevented by factors within your control, including diet.

Research shows that eating at least seven portions of fresh fruits and vegetables per day may lower your risk of dying from cancer by up to a massive 15%.

Improved skin conditions

Studies have shown that removing dairy from your diets can dramatically improve acne. Beyond just helping with breakouts, going vegan can also improve your complexion. Because a vegan diet typically requires that you eat vegetables and fruits rather than dairy, meat, and most processed snacks, the natural antioxidants can impact the way your skin looks and feels.