Plant-Based Diet Benefits for Health and the Environment

SOURCE npr.org
Eating plant-based protein a few times a week can improve health and reduce carbon footprint. Small dietary changes can have significant health and environmental benefits. Research shows that a plant-based diet can provide all necessary nutrients and protein for muscle strength.

Key Points

  • Swapping red and processed meat for plant protein a few times a week can reduce carbon footprint
  • Cutting red meat consumption by half can increase life expectancy and reduce carbon footprint
  • Eating a variety of plant-based sources like lentils, chickpeas, nuts, and seeds can provide sufficient protein for muscle strength
  • Shifting to a plant-based diet can have positive impacts on climate change

Pros

  • Eating plant-based protein can improve health and reduce carbon footprint
  • Small dietary changes can have significant health and environmental benefits
  • Plant-based diet can provide all necessary nutrients and protein for muscle strength

Cons

  • Sudden dietary changes may lead to temporary fatigue or weakness
  • Some people may need to plan their plant-based diet to ensure adequate protein intake