There are many benefits to plant-based and flexitarian diets. While these two diets are generally less restrictive, there are some nutrition concerns, and it’s important to talk to your doctor or dietitian before incorporating either into your daily diet. Plant-based diets include vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. Listed below are some of the more popular plant-based foods.
Plant-based protein diets are increasingly popular, but there are only a few studies that look at their nutritional profile. In addition to meat, flexitarians often include fermented vegetable foods, such as tempeh. This study examines the nutritional profile of raw tempeh from the USA and Portugal, and the impact of different cooking methods. This study also suggests that plant-based protein diets can provide adequate protein.
The CIA, which tracks trends in American eating habits, recently released a report on plant-based and flexitarian eating. This report teamed up with third-party research firm Datassential to examine the plant-forward eating trend. The findings indicate that more than half of U.S. consumers identify as “meat eaters,” while 22% describe themselves as “flexitarian,” 8% are “vegetarian,” and 6% are vegan.
The most common misconception about these two diets is the difference between a vegan and a plant-based diet. While vegans do not consume animal products, they do eat foods that contain animal-based ingredients. In contrast, pescetarians don’t eat meat, while vegans eliminate all animal products. Flexitarians can incorporate animal-based products into their diets. But the distinction between the two diets is largely personal, and you may want to try both.
CIA Global Plant-Forward Kitchen is part of an ecosystem of thought leadership initiatives aimed at creating a healthier future for the foodservice industry. The summit builds on Menus of Change, which CIA has co-sponsored with Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The conference will present next-generation strategies for addressing the plant-based movement. The program will also build on Principles of Healthy, Sustainable Menus.
The MIND diet is another great option for those interested in eating a plant-based diet and improving the health of your brain. While there are no strict meal plans, the MIND diet promotes eating ten brain-friendly foods. Compared to other plant-based diets, it may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. It may also improve cognition and slow down the onset of Parkinson’s disease in older adults.