Are you interested in improving your health through your diet? Then a plant-based diet could be the one for you! In this article we explore what a plant-based diet looks like, its benefits and the types of recipes you can enjoy! Read on to find out what’s involved.
What foods are included?
When it comes to eating a plant-based diet, the main food groups you’ll be working with include: fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds and legumes.
There is plenty of room to be able to enjoy variety and a range of different cuisines. If you are opting for a plant-based diet for health reasons, it’s important to minimise substituting meat for processed plant foods such as mock meat. There are many great alternatives that are just as easy to work with, and if not cheaper than opting for processed plant foods.
Health Benefits
Adopting a whole food plant-based diet will open you up to a whole new world of tasty, unique foods. It also offers a number of benefits for your health in the long run. Eating a wide range of vegetables and fruits ensures you are getting the nutrients your body needs. Studies have found that eating a plant-based diet can be protective against heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Cost Effective
Maybe you thought a plant-based diet could be more expensive? However, it really comes down to the types of food you buy. Plant protein like tofu, lentils and beans are quite inexpensive in comparison to meat. Shopping and eating in-season vegetables and fruits will also save you a lot of money!
Make it easy with meal planning
Planning in advance what you’ll cook for the week ahead can also help minimise excessive spending and food waste. Once you get into the momentum with trying new recipes, soon you’ll have your staples that will be on rotation.
Need some inspiration? Here are some of our favourite plant-based recipes.
Veggie Packed Wraps – These Mediterranean goodies are packed with veggies like mushroom, capsicum and zucchini! These are perfect for an on-the-go lunch idea, which you can make ahead of time and take to work the next day.
Coconut Rice Pudding – Warm yourself up with a flavoursome and nutrient rich breakfast. You’ll enjoy the benefits of berries and coconut with this one!
Curried Lentil and Carrot Soup – Nothing beats a warming soup, particularly as the weather starts to cool down! Lentils are an easy and healthy plant source for protein. You’ll feel full and satisfied after this one.
All the best on your plant-based journey!