The Veganuary movement began in 2014 out of a long-term fight for the prevention of animal suffering, environmental protection, and a healthy lifestyle for humans. This movement, started by Veganuary, a non-profit organization in Britain, encouraged people to participate. Adopt a vegan diet in this 31-day challenge in January. His idea was to raise awareness about the vegetarian lifestyle and its beneficial effects. Since then, the number of people adopting a vegan lifestyle has increased and the Golden Globes even introduced an all-vegan menu in 2020. According to a study conducted by psychologists at the University of Exeter in England, some people identify as less meat-eaters after trying to avoid animal products during January.
Vegetarianism is now followed by thousands of people around the world, as this lifestyle has resulted in various health benefits. According to Prashant Vishwanath, India country director of Veganuary, 1,28,000 Indians participated in the movement last year. We spoke to experts about the health benefits of following such a diet as they highlighted the major effects of this diet on the human body. And what should one keep in mind while following this challenge.
for a healthy heart
An analysis of studies published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology stated that vegetarian dietary patterns were associated with reductions in heart disease risk factors, including blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and body mass index, compared to non-vegetarian dietary patterns. In view of the increasing number of heart related diseases, diet can prove helpful. “Once considered an elite diet, vegetarianism has become mainstream – so much so that the number of people following a vegetarian diet has increased by 350% in the last decade,” says cardiologist, gold medalist and Padma awardee Dr Mohsin Wali. “has increased.” Research from the UK I was impressed by the careful and logical decision of one of our outgoing Chief Justices of the Supreme Court, who organized a dinner party that had a completely vegetarian menu. He shared some benefits of the diet on heart health:
1. Vegetarian diet is beneficial for the heart and blood vessels as it eliminates cholesterol-rich components which are responsible for cardiovascular deaths and cardiovascular risks.
2. Inflammation results from vascular damage, specifically endothelial damage (damage in the thin layer of cells lining blood vessels) caused by high calorie intake and oxidative stress caused by high fat intake. Plant-based diets reduce this component of the risk factor. Recent research suggests that cellular damage and telomere shortening (a gradual process by which the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, called telomeres, become shorter) result in slower aging.
3. Patients with existing heart disease benefit greatly from adopting vegetarianism in the form of a duty percentage diet (defining a ratio for each nutrient in your body), which reduces the stress on the human system. In a way, its effect can be as good as quitting smoking.
4. Some vitamins like B12 D Calcium Zinc Iodine and Selenium are depleted so supplements containing the above can be properly balanced. Overall a vegetarian diet is medically superior to all other diets and is positively protective against heart and liver disease.
Effect on PCOS
Women with PCOS have higher levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and cholesterol. According to research from the University of South Carolina, following a proper vegan diet can improve ovulation, regulate menstruation, and reduce the risk of future conditions associated with PCOS, such as type 2 diabetes. Is. “A balanced vegetarian diet rich in whole foods can help manage blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and perhaps reduce the severity of PCOS symptoms. Additionally, plant-based diets are often associated with increased general health and weight loss,” explains Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynecologist, obstetrician and IVF specialist at Nurture IVF Clinic. “However, each individual is unique and what may work for one person may not necessarily work for another. As a result, it is always advisable to consult a trained dietitian or health care professional before making any significant dietary adjustments.
effects on gut health
When transitioning to a vegan diet, gradual changes allow your body to adjust to the increased fiber intake, reducing the risk of digestive upset. “Pay close attention to meal planning to ensure nutrient adequacy and consider tracking your food intake to avoid deficiencies in critical nutrients,” says DT Vishay Ale of Paras Health.
Vegetarian diet includes
When transitioning to a vegan diet, individuals should prioritize nutrients found primarily in animal products, such as protein, iron, calcium, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids and zinc. Additionally, vitamin D and iodine should not be overlooked. “It is important to include fortified plant-based foods, such as fortified plant milk, cereals and nutritional yeast. “Balancing meals with a variety of whole foods such as legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help ensure a nutrient-rich diet,” says Neelima Bisht, DT, chief clinical nutritionist, department of dietetics at Paras Health. Diet is assured.” Fruits and hearty foods or supplements of specific nutrients such as vitamins B12 and D complete the plan. Variety is important to prevent nutrient deficiencies. Fortified refers to ingredients that contain additional nutrients. For example: adding vitamin D to milk.
