Flexitarian Diet: Here's How It Can Improve Your Health

Dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner developed the Flexitarian Diet to assist people enjoy the health benefits of vegetarianism while still allowing themselves to occasionally indulge in animal items like dairy, meat, and fish. The flexitarian diet promotes consuming primarily plant-based foods with moderation of meat and other animal products.

Compared to strict vegetarian or vegan diets, it is more adaptable. Going flexitarian could be a good option for you if you want to increase the amount of plant-based items in your diet without giving up meat entirely. Keep reading as we discuss the many benefits of the flexitarian diet.

10 Health benefits of following a flexitarian diet:

1. Increased intake of fruits and vegetables

A flexitarian diet places a strong emphasis on plant-based foods, leading to higher intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

2. Improved digestion

Plant-based foods are rich in fibre, which can help promote regular bowel movements and improve digestive health.

3. Lowered risk of chronic diseases

Studies have shown that a diet high in fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

4. Weight management

A flexitarian diet can help with weight loss and weight maintenance due to the emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods.

5. Reduced inflammation

Plant-based foods have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to many chronic diseases.

6. Increased energy levels

Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide a steady source of energy throughout the day.

7. Improved skin health

The antioxidants found in plant-based foods can help improve skin health and reduce signs of aging.

8. Better immune function

A diet high in fruits and vegetables can help boost the immune system and improve overall health.

9. Reduced environmental impact

A flexitarian diet is more sustainable and environmentally friendly than a diet high in animal products, as it requires fewer resources to produce plant-based foods.

10. Improved overall well-being

By focusing on a varied and diverse diet that includes a wide range of plant-based foods, the flexitarian diet can promote overall health and well-being.

In summary, a flexitarian diet can boost our health by providing essential nutrients, promoting weight management, reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and supporting overall well-being. Incorporating more plant-based foods into our diet can lead to numerous health benefits and a decreased risk of chronic diseases.

Flexitarian eating may provide several health advantages. It's challenging to determine whether and how the benefits of other plant-based diets that have been studied apply to the Flexitarian Diet, though, because this diet lacks a precise definition.

However, studies on vegetarian and vegan diets are still useful in demonstrating the potential health benefits of semi-vegetarian diets. To gain the health benefits of plant-based nutrition, it seems crucial to eat predominantly fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and other minimally processed whole foods. Reducing meat intake won't have the same effects as eating fewer processed foods with a lot of added sugar and salt.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.