The Best Reasons to Eat More Plant-Based Foods

Other common phrases for No Cook are Raw or Plant-Based recipes and meals. What is a plant-based diet? It is a diet that's full of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds, and low in animal products. When these foods are eaten raw, there are many health benefits.

Develops Healthy Habits in Young Children

Veggies and fruits are great sources of the many vitamins and minerals children need to grow and learn. Children who eat a variety of plant-based foods learn to enjoy a wide range of flavors and tastes. This fondness will help children become adventurous and willing to try new foods.

Helps Prevent Disease

A plant-based diet may help prevent chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, obesity, and cancer because it is usually:

• low in sodium, 
• free from added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy additives, 
• consistently high in the superpower nutrient fiber, and 
• full of essential vitamins and minerals.

Helps Healthy Skin

Vegetables and fruits have a bunch of vitamins such as A, C, E, and K which are important for healthy skin.

The high water content of fresh vegetables and fruits, fiber in whole grains, and healthy fats of legumes, nuts, and seeds all support healthy skin. They keep us hydrated and give us the nutrients our bodies need.

Supports Good Gut Health

Diets that are high in fiber that comes mostly from plant-based whole foods like grains, seeds, and legumes can increase the healthy bacteria in our guts and help us feel better. Dietary fiber also helps reduce constipation and improves regularity. Other important benefits of eating diet high in fiber include lowering cholesterol levels, helping control blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes, and helping maintain a healthy weight. 

Helps Maintain Healthy Eyes

Spinach, corn, kale, squash, kiwi, and grapes contain pigments that may prevent cataract and macular degeneration which can lead to blindness.

Makes Weight Control Easier

Eating lots of vegetables and fruits, healthy plant-based fats (including olive oil, avocado, nuts and seeds), and plant-based proteins (including legumes, soy, and protein-rich grains like quinoa, farro, and bulgur) makes it easier to maintain our weight and lose excess weight in a healthy way that doesn't involve strict calorie-cutting.

Sources: 
Dana Hunnes, Ph.D., M.P.H., R.D.
WebMD
US News; Wellness