Thank you for visiting my Blog. It is because of you that I write these articles and do the research on what’s important and the latest trends in fitness and nutrition. I enjoy helping people and want to help everyone I can reach their goals.
So everyone has heard of vegan diets, plant-based diets, and keto, and paleo. But there is a difference between them and today we will focus on only two; Vegan and Plant-Based. Is there a real difference? Does it matter? Can I be both? These questions come up when I talk with people and they find out I am a personal fitness and nutrition trainer. So I will try to explain it here in a short but concise answer backed by research.
So first we will talk about Veganism. By definition, means
“Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude—as far as is possible and practicable—all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.” https://www.vegansociety.com/go-vegan/definition-veganism
The two diets are very similar in what is consumed, however the real difference is plant-based diets are able to use honey. However, there are health benefits for both and that are very similar as well. A vegan diet can help reduce your risk of heart disease, lower your chances of getting certain cancers, manage your diabetes, and promotes weight loss. The one thing that is bad for vegans is junk food and foods that are processed. Most of these do not contain animal products and so are free game. That is where proper planning and discipline come into play.
You can be both vegan and/or plant-based dieter. They are close in foods consumed, health benefits, and lifestyles, however, there are a few things people on a vegan diet need to watch for; getting enough protein. Most of the protein in regular diets come from meat, dairy, and eggs. A vegan diet or plant –based diet does not contain meat, dairy, or eggs, so getting enough protein is a real struggle for these dieters. Most of the protein consumed are incomplete proteins meaning that they only contain a few of the essential nine amino acids that are needed by the body to build muscle, tissue, and more. To get your protein requirements consume nuts, chick peas, oats, spinach, almonds, peanut butter, and tofu as a start.
So in conclusion, you can be both, and it doesn’t really matter which one you choose just make sure you get your daily amount of protein and vitamins and minerals. The most important thing is eating a healthy diet and consuming a variety of foods to stay healthy and happy. Some people choose to be Vegan as a way of life and some are only concerned with their diet. Plant-base dieters choose that diet for health reasons, or just to try something new to kick start their weight loss program. Either way, just follow one or both or live a happy and healthy life.
Take care……You only get one body..Make the change!
Darren
Harmony Shift 