What are the health benefits of a vegetarian diet?

Although more and more people are turning to vegetarian or vegan diets, Brits continue to be a nation of meat lovers, with the vast majority still choosing animal products over plant-based alternatives. However, if you are tempted to experiment with some new meat-free meals, National Vegetarian Week, which began on Monday, is the perfect time to give them a go. If you’re already a committed veggie, you’ll be aware that the range of meat-free products on the market is more diverse than ever. But what are the health benefits of eating a vegetarian diet, and will you feel any different if you move away from meat for good?

Better digestive health benefits of a vegetarian diet

Vegetarian and vegan diets are typically high in fibre, which supports the healthy functioning of your digestive system. A plant-based diet could help prevent constipation and reduce bloating after meals. Including plenty of high-fibre foods in your diet has also been known to alleviate stomach problems thanks to their high antioxidant content that can reduce inflammation. Of course, suddenly having a plate full of fibre could also cause discomfort, so if you’re ready to embrace vegetarianism for the long haul, it’s a good idea to drink lots of water while you adjust to your new diet.

Higher intake of vitamins and minerals

When you cut out meat from your diet, there’s a good chance you’ll rely more heavily on vegetables, pulses, whole grains, and pulses. Because these foods are highly nutritious, a vegetarian diet usually provides more vitamins and minerals such as vitamins C and E, potassium and magnesium. While extra nutrition is always good, it’s important to ensure your diet is balanced. Vegetarians and vegans often require supplements to boost their vitamin B12, iron and zinc intake since they can sometimes lack in meat-free diets. Of course, this can often depend on what vegetables you like and whether you want to continue eating dairy, but your health can only benefit from ensuring your diet is balanced.

Improved heart health

Vegetarians and vegans tend to include lots of fresh fruit and vegetables in their diet, which are linked to a lower risk of heart disease.  Those who switch to meat for plant-based diets, therefore, have improved cardiac health and are at a lower risk of developing high blood pressure. To reap the heart-boosting benefits of a veggie diet, make sure you opt for plenty of legumes such as lentils, chickpeas and beans, nuts, and whole grains. Doing this’ll increase your soluble fibre intake, which can keep your blood sugar levels stable, reduce your cholesterol and lower your risk of a heart attack. 

Take a food intolerance test before changing your diet

If you’re thinking of changing your diet, it’s a good idea to take a food intolerance test to ensure your body is compatible with the ingredients you’re adding to your meals. If your body has difficulty digesting certain vegetables, for example, eating more of them could trigger food intolerance symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating and fatigue. By finding out if you’re intolerant to specific items, you’ll know which foods to include and what to avoid so your body can enjoy the benefits of a vegetarian diet without suffering from an adverse reaction.

Discover the health benefits of a Vegetarian Diet

If you’d like to learn more about how taking a food intolerance test can improve your health, please have a look at the information on our website. You’re also welcome to email any questions you have to [email protected], and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Please remember that if you’re concerned about your diet, it’s worth speaking to your doctor or a dietician who can ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs.