Better Health

It is well-accepted by health experts that a plant-based (vegan) diet can provide all the nutrients we need.

Both the Dieticians of Canada and the U.S. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics agree that appropriately planned plant-based diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases, and are appropriate for all stages of life.^1,2

The World Health Organization reports strong evidence that a diet low in meat, eggs and dairy, while also higher in fruit and vegetables, was associated with a lower risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and various types of cancer.³ The volume of evidence that vegan diets have major health benefits is enormous.^4,5 A plant-based diet rich in fibre, folic acid and antioxidants is also associated with lower cholesterol, blood pressure and body fat.⁶

The Canadian Cancer Society recommends increasing our intake of high fibre foods such as whole grains and legumes.⁵ Canada’s Food Guide recommends including plenty of vegetables and fruits in our diet; when you eat, half of your plate should be vegetables and fruits.⁷

Research also suggests that a plant-based diet may reduce the number of medications patients need to take to treat a variety of chronic conditions.⁸

It is crucial to note that you must eat B12-supplemented foods or take a vitamin B12 supplement while on a plant-based diet, as there is no reliable plant source for vitamin B12. But don’t worry – the B12 found in supplements is sourced from bacteria, not from animals.