Vegetarianism and veganism are two of the most well-known plant-based diets, but there are many more options. We present different types of plant-based diets.
Plant-based nutrition in general
Plant-based diets are not a new idea. People have been eating plant-based foods for centuries and the benefits of this type of diet are well known. Plants are rich in nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, all of which are important for health. There are many different ways to eat a plant-based diet, and there is no “right” or “wrong” when it comes to which diet is best for you. The best type of diet is the one you feel most comfortable with and can maintain over time. It is important to design your plant-based diet so that you get all the nutrients you need.
Different forms of plant-based diets
Here’s an overview of the different forms of plant-based diets:
Veganism
Vegans eat a plant-based diet exclusively. This means that they do not eat meat, fish, eggs or dairy products. Honey is also often avoided because bees are involved in its creation. Other vegans pay attention to ethically safe honey consumption, for example, from the beekeeper, and do not want to give up honey because of the great, health benefits. Vegan does not mean healthy. Today, there is a huge selection of vegan convenience foods that often do nothing for health. Whole-foods refers to a form of veganism in which the individual foods are consumed exclusively in non-processed form. This variation is much more oriented toward a healthy lifestyle.
Ovo-lacto vegetarianism
Vegetarians eat eggs and dairy products in addition to vegetables and fruits. Most vegetarians choose this type of diet because they feel it is ethical to avoid meat, but they do not want to give up all animal products.
Ovo-vegetarianism
Ovo-vegetarians, like lacto-vegetarians, eat a diet of vegetables and fruits and eggs, but avoid dairy products. The reasons for not eating milk and dairy products can vary – some don’t like cow’s milk, others don’t want to participate in industrial factory farming for animal welfare reasons.
Lacto-vegetarianism
Lacto-vegetarians eat vegetables and fruits as well as milk and dairy products – but no eggs.
Facts about the plant-based diet
The human body is capable of utilizing various nutrients from plant foods. However, most people eat a diet based primarily on animal products. Yet plant foods can make an important contribution to a healthy diet. Among other things, plant foods contain vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium and dietary fiber. They are also rich in secondary plant substances such as polyphenols and phytosterols. These substances can positively influence health and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Those who consume animal foods should make sure to eat a large proportion of plant foods. Plant foods should make up the majority of the diet.
Conclusion – awareness of one’s own diet
Awareness of one’s diet is the key to a healthy lifestyle. People who eat consciously pay attention not only to the quality but also to the quantity of food. The diet should be balanced and contain all the nutrients that the body needs. At the same time, it is important to be aware of what foods you eat and in what quantities. Because only those who know what they eat can also consciously decide whether a food is healthy or not.