Plant based diet and the pandemic

We are in the middle of a global pandemic, and it has altered the way we lead our lives forever. While we rethink our hygiene and lifestyle habits, we must re-examine our eating habits as well! According to the International Food Information Council, there has been an uptick in consumer interest levels towards plant-based proteins. 

The underlying conditions 

Experts all over the world agree that people suffering from comorbidities (heart problems, diabetes, or chronic lung disease) are most susceptible to COVID-19. While there is no direct link between a plant-based diet and COVID-19, there is strong evidence to suggest that it can treat or control the underlying diseases. 

A recent study indicates that by adopting a plant-based diet, a person can reduce their risk of death by up to 40%. In another study, it has been observed that people on a vegetarian diet have lower systolic and diastolic blood pressures than those on an omnivorous diet. Did you know that adopting a plant-based diet can sometimes reverse diabetes? 

The most recent, and possibly surprising is the role your diet could play on lung health. According to a medical review, plant fibers are loaded with antioxidants and have natural anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been noted that some people suffering from chronic asthma have experienced significant relief after switching over to a plant-based diet. 

Enhance your immune system

According to the World Health Organization, you should consume 2 cups of fruits, 2.5 cups of vegetables, and 180 grams of grains a day. In addition to reducing the severity of comorbidities, a plant-based diet is loaded with macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients that restore the gut microbiome. With a majority of your immune system residing in your gut, by restoring ‘good’ bacteria you will reinforce your immune response to invading germs. 

It is not just your physical health that can benefit from a plant based diet! People on vegetarian diets have shown lesser instances of depression, anxiety, stress and mood imbalances. The cause is directly linked to the rich antioxidants derived from plant fibers. 

Additionally, there have been several reports that suggest animals in factory farms are routinely pumped with hormones and steroids. When the animal meat is consumed, it filles your bloodstream with antibiotic resistant pathogens. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), by 2050, more people will die of diseases caused by antibiotic resistant bacteria, than cancer! 

On the other hand, plant-based food is loaded with amino acids - the building blocks of protein. With several realistic vegan meat options available in the market, why not consider switching out your favourite dish for a healthier and protein packed plant-based alternative?

Availability and hygiene 

To keep ourselves safe from COVID-19, it is important to maintain a high level of care and hygiene, and we should be watchful of our nutrition. With the implementation of the lockdown, it has become harder to source quality meat, and sometimes the vegetables of your choice. Health professionals suggest we buy from our local vegetable vendors to be sure of the quality and source. 

If you want to read more about how you can benefit from adopting a plant based diet, visit: https://plantsarepower.in/.