Four Main Types of Plant-Based Diets
The reasons why people eat certain foods vary as much as the foods themselves. Cultural beliefs, religious doctrines, health concerns, and the need to make the world a better place are just a few examples. And today, more people are shifting toward plant-based diets to combat animal cruelty and/or reduce their environmental impact. If you’re considering cutting down on animal-based foods, this piece highlights a range of plant-based diets that could help you in your endeavor. Let’s go in order, shall we?
1. Flexitarian
The flexitarian is a flexible plant-based diet that doesn’t prohibit you from animal-based foods. A Flexitarian diet may include controlled amounts of eggs, fish, meat, and dairy.
A flexitarian diet can help you make a successful transition towards full veganism. Going from an unrestricted diet to plants only can be daunting. Making the transition in steps is the perfect balance.
2. Pescatarian
The pescatarian diet is mostly plant-based. It’s essentially “vegetarian plus,” with the plus being seafoods. Fish, eggs, and dairy are all allowed in this diet.
You can adopt the pescatarian diet to boost your intake of omega-3 fats and high-quality proteins. For a healthier environmental impact, make sure you get your fish at sustainable fish farms.
3. Vegetarian
As we mentioned before, the main difference between pescetarian and vegetarian is the consumption of fish. A vegetarian diet is healthier owing to its flexibility and inclusion of foods from all food groups hence eradicating the need for fortified foods and nutritional supplements. The benefits of a plant-based diet may include lower carbon footprint, reduced inflammation, low levels of bad cholesterol, improved gut health, and less risk of cardiovascular complications
4. Vegan
The vegan plant-based diet excludes all foods containing animal by-products and animal products, including dairy, fish, meat, eggs, and honey. This also includes non-food animal products like wool and leather.
Most folks abide by the vegan diet because of animal welfare concerns, environmental issues, and health benefits. Veganism has the smallest carbon footprint compared to other plant-based diets because it eliminates all products derived from farm animals.