In recent years, plant-based diets have surged in popularity.
According to a recent NCBI study, there are nearly 90 million people following a vegan or plant-based diet worldwide, and what once might have been considered a niche or restrictive way of eating is fast becoming a mainstream movement. “The most ethical diet just so happens to be the most environmentally sound diet and just so happens to be the healthiest,” explains Dr Michael Greger, a pioneer in the plant-based movement and the author of the New York Times bestseller, “How Not To Die,” as well as several further titles in the series.
Eda Gungor, the founder of SEVA, a plant-based wellness cafe in Dubai, agrees with this sentiment, “There’s a collective awakening happening. People are becoming more aware of the profound impact their choices have – on their health, the planet, and the lives of animals. The shift towards plant-based diets is part of this larger movement towards living more consciously. As we face environmental challenges and health crises, individuals are seeking ways to align their daily habits with their deeper values. The rise of plant-based diets reflects a desire to live in harmony with the earth, to care for our bodies in the most natural way possible, and to reduce harm in a world that desperately needs healing.”
One of the primary reasons for this shift is a growing awareness of the health benefits associated with plant-based diets. Numerous studies have highlighted how diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. With more people prioritizing their health, the appeal of a diet that can support longevity and vitality is undeniable. Indeed, Valpro Path, a leading EU plant protein organisation, argues that one of the reasons there has been a growth in plant-based diets is the rise in awareness of prevention in health. “With increasing rates of obesity, heart disease, and other lifestyle-related ailments, people are seeking healthier alternatives to their traditional diets. Plant-based diets, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes, offer a plethora of vitamins essential for optimal health. Numerous studies have shown that plant-based diets rich in fibre and antioxidants can lower the risk of heart diseases, and chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers.”
“A plant-based diet is like a one-stop shop against chronic diseases,” agrees Dr Greger. “Many people assume the diseases that kill us are pre-programmed into our genes. High blood pressure by 55, heart attacks at 60, maybe cancer at 70 and so on… But for most of the leading causes of death our genes usually account for only a 10-20 per cent of risk,” he explains.
Environmental sustainability is another compelling factor driving the interest in plant-based diets. With climate change and environmental degradation becoming more pressing global issues, the role of animal agriculture in contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water consumption has come under scrutiny. For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, adopting a plant-based diet is a tangible way to make a positive impact.
“Beyond health, a plant-based diet has a significantly lower environmental footprint. It uses fewer resources, produces less greenhouse gas emissions, and helps preserve biodiversity. Our plant-based steak for example produces 97% less CO2 emissions and uses 81% less water in its entire production than traditional meat alternatives,” explains Pascal Bieri, the cofounder of plant-based meat alternative company Planted.
Alongside health benefits, ethical concerns regarding animal welfare have motivated many to reconsider their food choices. The rise of documentaries and social media platforms has made it easier than ever to access information about the conditions in which animals are raised for food. As a result, a significant number of people are choosing to align their diets with their values, opting for plant-based options that minimize harm to animals.
There are other factors to consider however, for example, the rise of Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs) have been seen across both the meat and plant-based sectors, meaning not all foods are healthy, just because they are made without meat, dairy or fish. Ingredients are king, when it comes to nutritious food, as Marc Joseph the Chef Patron at E3, the UK’s first Vegan fine-dining supper club explains “[at the restaurant] we cook exclusively with whole foods. We know where our foods are coming from and what their nutritional value is, ultra-processed foods, whether animal or plant-based are not healthy.”
Meanwhile, Gungor highlights that it’s also important to remain mindful of supplementation needs when making the switch to a plant-based diet “Vitamin B12 is crucial, as it’s primarily found in animal products, so supplementation is often necessary,” she explains.
“Additionally, ensure you’re receiving adequate iron, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D. These can be sourced from a variety of plant-based foods and supplements. The key is to approach your diet with a sense of curiosity and commitment, ensuring that it remains balanced and nourishing,” she continues.
As more restaurants, food brands, and even fast-food chains embrace plant-based options, a plant-based lifestyle has become more accessible and appealing. This growing trend is arguably not just a passing fad but a significant shift towards a more conscious and sustainable way of living.
