A recent article published on The Conversation website stated that
plant-based diets are good for immunity. Research has indicated that
people in Australia are following a vegetarian diet due to health-related,
religious and ethical reasons. The popularity of the vegetarian diet is growing
in increasing numbers. As a follower and promoter of a vegetarian diet, I need
to understand the health benefits of a vegetarian diet. The article will spark
the curiosity of the readers who want to know the health benefits of a
vegetarian diet. Studies revealed that higher amounts of plant origin foods
such as fruits, legumes and vegetables have positive health benefits.
Healthy and well-balanced diets with recommended servings boost the immune
system apart from other lifestyle factors. The research revealed that people
who adopted lacto-vegetarian, vegan and lacto-ovo vegetarian diets tend to have
lower levels of white blood cells.
White blood cells
play a major role in our immune system as they include lymphocytes,
natural killer cells, T-cells and B-cells. To build our immune system, it is
essential to include a range of herbs and spices in our cooking. Curcumin (turmeric) is an excellent spice
that acts as a natural killer and fights against many infections. Turmeric,
used in cooking and home remedies, has medicinal properties that act as
anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-oxidant. Foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as leafy
vegetables (spinach, swiss chard and collard greens), whole grains and garlic
are recommended to reduce inflammation-related disorders.
The article suggests that it is essential to
understand the vegetarian patterns and dietary needs of a vegetarian to lead a
happy and healthy life. I contemplate that vegetarians should check health
guidelines of the Australian Government to know information
about the dietary needs of vegetarians of all age groups
and health conditions. Vegetarians need to plan their meals that have enough
calcium, protein and iron to avoid the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Inadequate nutrition can lead to B12 deficiencies. As a Lacto-vegetarian, I
prepare my meals with ingredients that have high amounts of Vitamin B12.
According to the National Institutes of Health(NIH), an average
adult should consume 2.4 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin B12 per day. Vegetarians
should include yoghurt in salads and soy-based curries to increase their intake
of Vitamin B12.
No comments:
Post a Comment