Top 15 Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet

The benefits of a vegetarian diet include the following:

1. Having more energy: reduced portions of fat and sugar will naturally give you more energy. So eating lots of vegetables and grains will automatically increase your energy levels.

2. Reduced risk of cancer: studies have shown that many vegans and vegetarians have a lower risk of cancer. It has been suggested that this is because often vegans and vegetarians try to stay away from pesticides, chemicals and preservatives. Over a 100 studies, including those conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund, have shown that we lower our risk of cancer by choosing a predominately plant-based diet.

3. Less use of medication: because most vegans have low cholesterol and blood pressure, they don't have a need for prescriptions for high cholesterol and hypertension. Additionally, most vegans don't need diet pills.

4. Lower cholesterol and blood pressure: by eliminating any food that comes from animals, which contain high amounts of cholesterol, you will automatically lower your cholesterol and you will see your blood pressure decrease as well.

5. Lower body mass index: vegans typically have a lower body mass index which results in lower cholesterol, blood pressure, Type 2 Diabetes, as well as a lower risk of prostate and colon cancer.

6. Lower risk of osteoporosis: eating meat promotes bone loss because animal products force calcium out of the body. Meanwhile, a vegan diet aids in the absorption of calcium therefore lowering the risk of osteoporosis.

7. Longer life span: many studies, such as one conducted by William Costelli, MD who is the director of Farmingham Heart Study, have shown that vegans and vegetarians live 3 to 6 years longer than those on an animal-based diet.

8. Reduces saturated fats: you will improve your cardiovascular health by eliminating meat and dairy products from your diet as those foods contain large amounts of saturated fats. Also, vegans and vegetarians typically use all natural oils and cooking methods to prepare their food to enhance the flavor which is free of unhealthy saturated fats.

9. Increased intake of fiber, magnesium, potassium, folate, antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, protein and phytochemicals: all of these nutrients reduce the risk of cancer, boost protective enzymes, help with cell repair, metabolize amino acids and assist in eliminate toxins from the body.

10. Weight loss: a well-planned vegan diet eliminates most of the unhealthy foods that tend to cause weight gain.

11. Improved digestion: because a plant-based diet is fiber-rich, it improves the digestion and elimination process.

12. Hormone-free eating: unlike meat, fruits, vegetables and soy products are not injected with growth hormones that may harm the human body.

13. Healthy amino acids: plant-based proteins can be an excellent source of amino acids which help with protein assimilation and metabolism.

14. Healthy skin: nuts and vitamins A and E from vegetables are ideal for healthy skin. Therefore, many vegans see a reduction in blemishes.

15. Lower risk of cardiovascular disease: several studies have shown that eliminating dairy products and meat, while eating nuts and whole grains will improve cardiovascular health.

This article was written by The Sunflower Vegan (aka Amirah Bellamy), Personal Vegan Fitness Chef, Published Author & Fitness Industry Business Consultant. To learn more & get your FREE Healthy Eating eBook & Vegetarian Starter Kit go to AmirahBFit.com AmirahBFit.com.